ORMISTON pizzaiolo Otto Cucina has taken home one of Queensland’s top culinary honours, with judges from some of the world’s best restaurants naming his creation the state’s Best Creative Pizza.
Anthony Taranto, owner of this small but fast-growing Ormiston pizza business, was one of only two entrants to place at the Queensland Pizza Championships earlier this month.
The competition was judged by internationally renowned chefs, including the world’s top pizza maker and restaurateurs behind venues ranked first and 16th globally, making Taranto’s win a standout moment for a young Redlands business.
His wife, Sarah, said the recognition still felt surreal.
“We’ve been quietly working away on this business for the past three years,” she said.
“To be honest, this award is judged by the top chefs in the world, it’s pretty big.
“Anthony made the finalist list of 30 and then took a place – one of only two.
“It was fantastic.”
Mr Taranto’s winning entry paid homage to his Italian heritage, drawing on family traditions from the Aeolian Islands and the old town of Ragusa Ibla.
His wife said the pizza was inspired by a dish his Nonna used to make.
A layered, pastry style scotcher with rich sauce and fresh ingredients, reimagined with specialty semolina and premium imported produce.
The couple moved to the Redlands in 2023 after living in Milan and London, launching their business soon after.
What began as a few local market appearances quickly snowballed.
“Within a few months he was booked out for private events,” Mrs Taranto said.
“Now it’s mostly higher- end weddings, birthdays, corporate events.
“We barely advertise; it’s all word of mouth.”
She said the win was a reminder of the craft behind the business.
“Everything is done by hand – the dough, the ingredients, and there’s a science and a passion to it,” she said.
“For a small local family business to be recognised on a global scale like this, it’s important to celebrate wins like that.”
Pizzas are typically served in an “all you can eat” buffet style, with four types of pizzas in the standard pizza package, while waiters are another options available to service guests.
Service timeframe depends on the event size and guests numbers.
