On a sleepy, mostly suburban backstreet in Clifton Hill, Pizza Shop is a tiny pizzeria by Spensley’s, a neighbourhood eatery and bar that punches well above its weight.

A glowing red neon that spells out the pizzeria’s name marks the spot on Spensley Street. Inside you’ll find some of the best pies in Melbourne – plus well-chosen beer and wine – to dine-in or takeaway.

Don’t let the no-frills dining room (decked out with Italian memorabilia) fool you. These sourdough pizzas have chewy, perfectly blistered crusts. The selection of toppings is vibrant and slightly left-of-centre. And they’re worth seeking out if you’re not a local.

The Hawaiian-ish Boonie (with added ham hock and barbeque sauce) and the spicy-salami-topped Dawn (with three types of chilli) are standouts. Regular specials – like a cheeseburger-inspired number – mean there’s always something new to try.

Also find cheesy garlic bread, gluten-free alternatives and cannoli for dessert.