Since its opening in 2002, Spizza has certainly managed to live up to its reputation of serving great Italian food at affordable prices. With outlets all over Singapore at places like Harbourfront, Balmoral and Club Street, Spizza works hard to provide its customers with an authentic Italian dining experience. Now boasting its own island wide delivery service, fans of this franchise can finally indulge in their favourite Spizza Pizzas in the comfort of their own homes. As their slogan goes, 'Spizza for Friends' definitely manages to hold its own against its competitors by creating a comfortable yet chic hangout for its mixed clientele of both locals and expatriates.

• The Vibe
  Warmth is the magic word at Spizza, as its décor truly manages to project a cosy atmosphere through the use of dark red hues and wooden floors. Brick walls create an intimate setting, perfect for night out with a loved one. Modern artwork depicting the gondolas of Venice and other Italian scenes further adds to the sophisticated yet laidback ambience of the restaurant. A standout feature at Spizza is its' open concept pizza kitchen, where diners can watch the pizzas being tossed before their very eyes.
• The Food
  At first glance, Spizza's menu may seem unremarkable - a typical carte du jour of soups, salads, pizzas and pastas. However, on closer inspection, it becomes apparent that Spizza offers more than just the run of the mill Hawaiian or the ever popular but far from authentic Meat Lovers.

For starters, the Caligola ($11), or fried calamari, is perfectly crispy and fresh. Instead of the rubbery squid rings oft-served in other establishments, the calamari at Spizza is tender and not overdone. Deviating from the norm by serving it with 'Pizzaiola' sauce instead of the clichéd cream-based mayonnaise, the calamari goes very well indeed with the slightly spicy tomato-based sauce.

Health-conscious diners will like Adriano ($11), a smoked salmon salad which incorporates capers, onion rings, cherry tomatoes and olives to create a dish that is light and refreshing. It is obvious that freshness of ingredients is a priority at Spizza, judging by the taste of the salmon.

Spizza's wood-fired pizzas have an extremely thin, bubbled crust which is charred in areas to offset the sweet, tangy flavour of the tomato sauce. Engagingly named after Italian women, these pizzas are simply mouth-watering.

Take for example Sofia ($17 for a medium), a seafood pizza with generous servings of fresh mussels, shrimp, scallops and squid. Seafood lovers are sure to enjoy this tasty treat. Those partial to chicken can try Helena ($17 for a medium), which comprises delicious grilled chicken in pesto sauce and bell peppers topped with mozzarella cheese. The pesto gives the tender chicken immense flavour, which resonates with every bite.

While Isabella ($17 for a medium) is unimpressive with its parma harm and rucola salad, Quinta ($17 for a medium) is the way to go if you want unique. Black truffle sauce is the key topping on this pizza, which is unconventional without being too eccentric. A real crowd-pleaser, the flavour of this pizza is further enhanced by a sunny-side-up egg cooked right into its centre.

Those with a sweet tooth will take pleasure in Zara ($17 for a medium), a dessert pizza consisting of melted chocolate on a crispy base, banana slices and almond flakes. While the first few bites of this dish are decadently tasty, its sweetness can be slightly overwhelming.

• The Service
  The service at Spizza is outstanding. Always quick to refill glasses and clear dishes, the staff are friendly and able to offer recommendations, making dining here a pleasure.

The SD Food Advisor's take on Spizza
If you are looking for a slightly classier, more up market pizza place, Spizza is it. Great service and good pizza is hard to come by, and with their recent foray into home delivery, there's nothing stopping me from calling 6377 7773 and satisfying my pizza cravings!