A Historic Space with a Fiery Soul

The Forge Pizzeria is a buzzing pizza and pasta spot set in a former antique shop that’s been smartly reimagined for its new life. Opened by brothers Chris and Tim Matthews in 2012, the restaurant preserves its historical charm—right down to the original C.V. Jones sign at the entrance. The name itself is a tribute to their great-grandfather, a blacksmith from nearby Ascot.

A Crowd Favourite for Good Reason

The space is expansive, with two large dining rooms that can seat up to 200 guests—though it still regularly packs out. That’s thanks in no small part to their signature woodfired pizzas, crafted with dough aged for at least 48 hours for maximum flavour and texture.

Italian Style, Aussie Flavour

While the pizzas follow traditional Italian techniques, many highlight distinctly Australian ingredients. The Shearers is topped with slow-cooked Western Victorian lamb, Meredith goat’s cheese, rosemary, garlic, red onion, and pine nuts. The Blacksmith is another favourite, featuring pork and fennel sausage from Salt Kitchen, mushrooms, garlic, parsley, and mozzarella.

Options for Everyone

Vegetarians love the roast pumpkin pizza, and vegans are well catered for too—with toppings like mushrooms, vegan cheese, rocket, and a chilli and fennel seed aioli. The menu also ventures beyond pizza, offering house-made pasta dishes such as pumpkin tortellini and rich gorgonzola gnocchi.

Local Drops and Takeaway Treats

The drinks list leans local, with 80% of wines sourced from nearby vineyards and the rest imported from Italy. Prefer to eat at home? Takeaway and delivery options are available, so you can enjoy Forge favourites from your own table.