Since 2023, Pizzeria Magma has been one of Fitzroy North's most inviting spots for a slice. Renowned for its Naples-style pizza, charred in a custom-made Mesiano wood-fired oven, the high-vibe restaurant also made heading out for a pizza feel like an occasion, with a solid wine list, candelabra enveloped in guttered wax and pink neon lighting that spills onto St Georges Road after dark. So, when much-loved owner Jean-Paul Aziz, aka JP, recently announced he had sold Pizzeria Magma to new operators, there was an outpouring of support for a job well done. At the same time, JP signalled what lay ahead: "[The new owners] bring a wealth of experience, are familiar to us and ones we can now call friends to continue and build on what we started three and a bit years ago. There's a lot to be excited for in what will be a new phase for Magma." Set to reopen in early October, Pizzeria Magma is now owned by The Pinnacle's Michael Bascetta, with the high-profile sale of the pub happening in February 2026 only 300 metres up the road. Joining him, is current Magma chef Matilde Razzoli (Capitano, Elio's Place), who has moved into the role of head chef and co-owner. As the former owner of Bar Liberty, Capitano and Falco Bakery, and current head of product at PAX Hospitality, Bascetta appreciates the responsibility that comes with taking over a community favourite. View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@pizzeriamagma) "JP was clear about what mattered to him: he wanted Magma to go to someone who'd keep the name and keep it a pizzeria," Bascetta tells Concrete Playground. "That's what we're doing. We're taking Magma into its next chapter and plenty will evolve but the foundation he built stays exactly where it is." With the new team in place, Pizzeria Magma will undergo a light refresh, where Bascetta sees his role as more custodian than trailblazer. That means the dough, the room and the neighbourhood character are intended to remain much the same, while adding a small pasta section and a broader drinks program alongside a handful of considered updates. What does Michael want regulars to feel stays the same? "The heart of it," he says. "It's still pizza, made with the same dough and cooked in the same wood-fired oven. And it's still an open, welcoming room where regulars can walk in and feel like they never left." As for what might look different in the weeks and months ahead, Pizzeria Magma has lodged permits for the building's grassy parklet, running alongside the Capital City Trail. If all goes to plan, it shouldn't be too long before visitors can settle in with a spritz and slice beneath shady treetops. The pizza itself will have minor refinements to recipe and style, with a rotating selection of new toppings and a trio of pasta dishes on the agenda. What goes on behind the bar will also get a refresh. Riley King (The Pinnacle, Cordelia and Molly) has expanded the cocktail list, led by a house rotating seasonal Americano and a sherry-forward martini. Meanwhile, a selection of Australian and Italian wines will be available by the glass or in one-litre carafes. And if your kids finish their pizza crusts, they'll still get a free scoop of ice cream. "I've worked in and around Fitzroy North for about ten years, and it's always pulled me back," says Bascetta about his focus on the area. "Even though it's only one suburb up from Fitzroy, the pace drops a notch. It's more relaxed, more neighbourly and nobody's in a rush. That's exactly how I feel when I'm here, and it's what I want people to feel when they walk into our venues." Pizzeria Magma is expected to reopen in early October. Head to the website for more information. Like what you see? Subscribe to the Concrete Playground newsletter to get stories just like these straight to your inbox. Images: Supplied.
