Pizzeria Via Mercanti

Pizzeria Via Mercanti brings a slice of the Amalfi coast to Toronto’s Kensington Market, offering a welcoming, family-operated space at 188 Augusta Avenue. Founded by Romolo Salvati, who grew up near Salerno and has been perfecting pizza dough since his youth, this neighborhood joint is ideal for families and casual diners seeking authentic Italian comfort food. The restaurant stands out for its traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, which are crafted by skilled pizzaiolos and baked in a wood-burning oven. Beyond classic thin-crust pies, the menu features unique double-layer pizza builds alongside a variety of pastas, paninis, and traditional antipasti like arancini and calamari.

While the wood-fired pizzas earn glowing praise from guests, including Italian expats who call them some of the most authentic pies in the city, some diners note that other menu items, like the pastas, do not always reach the same high standard. Additionally, while the interior is clean and comfortable, some visitors find the indoor decor and service to be fairly average. However, the dog-friendly outdoor patio offers a wonderful atmosphere for family dining. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Pizzeria Via Mercanti remains a reliable, delicious spot for a casual meal in the heart of the market.