Chef Michele Fernando of Massilia Bangkok Ranked Among Top 100 Pizza Chefs in the World
- Marketing Team
- Nov 19
- 6 min read
Massilia's Chef Michele Fernando Achieves Global Recognition as One of the World's Top 100 Pizza Chefs
In a landmark achievement for Thailand's culinary landscape, Chef Michele Fernando, head pizzaiolo of Massilia Bangkok, has been named #79 among the Top 100 Pizza Chefs in the World at the prestigious Best Pizza Awards 2025, held on June 25th in Milan, Italy.
This distinguished honor places Chef Michele among an elite group of culinary professionals who represent the pinnacle of pizza craftsmanship worldwide—and positions Massilia Bangkok as not only the best pizzeria in Bangkok but as an internationally recognized leader in authentic Neapolitan pizza.
The recognition marks a defining moment for Thailand's pizza community and further establishes Bangkok as an essential destination on the global pizza map.
The Best Pizza Awards 2025: Where the World's Elite Pizza Chefs Gather
The Best Pizza Awards, now in its third edition, represents the most credible and chef-driven recognition in the international pizza community. Held at Spazio Antologico, East End Studios in Milan—the heart of Italian culinary culture—the 2025 ceremony welcomed over 500 international guests, including more than 300 of the world's most respected pizzaiolos.
Unlike commercial or consumer-driven rankings, the Best Pizza Awards are evaluated by industry professionals who assess:
Technical craftsmanship and skill
Innovation while respecting tradition
Quality of ingredients and sourcing practices
Cultural authenticity and technique
Consistency and excellence in execution
For Chef Michele Fernando to be ranked #79 globally among this distinguished field represents years of dedication to perfecting the art and science of authentic Italian pizza.
Chef Michele Fernando: Leading Massilia to International Acclaim
As the head pizzaiolo of Massilia Bangkok, Chef Michele Fernando has been instrumental in transforming the restaurant from a local favorite into Thailand's most awarded Italian restaurant and one of Asia's premier pizza destinations.
A Philosophy Rooted in Italian Tradition
Chef Michele's approach to pizza-making honors centuries-old Neapolitan techniques while incorporating modern understanding of fermentation, ingredient science, and flavor development. His philosophy centers on three core principles:
1. Uncompromising Ingredient QualityEvery pizza begins with meticulously sourced Italian ingredients—DOP-certified products, San Marzano tomatoes from volcanic soil, artisanal mozzarella, and Italian flours selected specifically for Neapolitan-style dough.
2. Technical Mastery Through Long FermentationChef Michele's signature dough undergoes extended fermentation periods of 48 to 72 hours, developing complex flavors, optimal texture, and enhanced digestibility—a hallmark of authentic Neapolitan pizza that distinguishes Massilia from conventional pizzerias.
3. Respect for Tradition, Courage to InnovateWhile honoring classic recipes like Margherita and Marinara, Chef Michele creates award-winning contemporary pizzas such as the celebrated Norma Not Normal, which earned the title of Pizza of the Year Asia-Pacific 2025.
Recognition Reflects Team Excellence
Upon receiving the award, Chef Michele emphasized the collective effort behind Massilia's success:
"This award is a reflection of Massilia's commitment to excellence and our mission to bring the true Italian pizza tradition to Thailand. To be ranked among the best in the world is an incredible honor, not just for me, but for our entire team who work daily to elevate the pizza experience in Bangkok."
This acknowledgment underscores the collaborative culture at Massilia, where every team member—from pizzaiolos to servers—contributes to the restaurant's reputation as the best Italian restaurant in Bangkok.
Thailand Represented: Only Two Chefs in the Global Top 100
Chef Michele Fernando's inclusion in the Top 100 Pizza Chefs in the World places him alongside only one other Thailand-based chef: Ted Tanwa of Peppina. This limited representation underscores the exceptional nature of the achievement and highlights Bangkok's emergence as a legitimate international pizza capital.
The recognition confirms what locals have known for years: authentic, world-class Italian pizza thrives in Bangkok, executed at a level comparable to the finest pizzerias in Naples, New York, and Tokyo.
Massilia Bangkok: A Decade of Excellence and Innovation
Founded in 2015, Massilia began as a single gourmet pizza truck with an ambitious goal: introduce authentic Italian pizza to Thailand without compromise. A decade later, Massilia has evolved into Bangkok's most celebrated Italian restaurant, accumulating prestigious accolades that validate its commitment to excellence.
Massilia's Award Portfolio (2024-2025):
🏆 #22 Best Pizzeria in the World 2025 (50 Top Pizza)
🍕 Pizza of the Year Asia-Pacific 2025 (Norma Not Normal)
👨🍳 Chef Michele Fernando: #79 Top 100 Pizza Chefs in the World 2025
This extraordinary collection of honors in a single year represents unprecedented achievement for any pizzeria in Southeast Asia and establishes Massilia as a benchmark for Italian culinary excellence in Thailand.
Why Chef Michele Fernando's Recognition Matters for Bangkok's Culinary Scene
This achievement extends beyond individual recognition—it represents a watershed moment for Thailand's position in the global culinary community.
Elevating Bangkok's International Reputation
For years, Bangkok has been celebrated for its street food, traditional Thai cuisine, and diverse Asian flavors. Chef Michele's ranking demonstrates that Bangkok has also become home to world-class international cuisine, executed with the same rigor and authenticity found in the dishes' countries of origin.
Inspiring Thailand's Next Generation of Chefs
Chef Michele's success provides a roadmap for aspiring chefs in Thailand: excellence is achievable through dedication to craft, respect for tradition, and unwavering commitment to quality. His recognition proves that Thai-based chefs can compete—and excel—on the global stage.
Establishing Bangkok as a Pizza Destination
The presence of two Thai chefs in the Top 100 globally signals to international food enthusiasts that Bangkok deserves serious consideration when planning culinary travel. The city now stands alongside established pizza capitals as a destination where authentic, exceptional pizza can be experienced.
The Massilia Difference: What Sets This Italian Restaurant Apart
Understanding why Chef Michele Fernando earned global recognition requires examining what makes Massilia Bangkok exceptional among Italian restaurants in Thailand.
Authentic Neapolitan Technique
Massilia adheres to traditional Neapolitan pizza-making methods:
Hand-stretched dough (never rolled, preserving air bubbles and texture)
Wood-fired ovens reaching optimal temperatures for characteristic char
Long fermentation developing flavor complexity and digestibility
Fresh, high-quality toppings applied with restraint to honor Italian tradition
Premium Imported Ingredients
Chef Michele insists on sourcing the finest Italian ingredients:
00 flour specifically milled for Neapolitan pizza
San Marzano DOP tomatoes from the Sarno River valley
Fior di latte and buffalo mozzarella from select Italian producers
Extra virgin olive oil and Italian cured meats meeting certification standards
Innovation Grounded in Tradition
While respecting classic pizza, Chef Michele develops creative offerings that have earned critical acclaim. The Norma Not Normal—featuring Sicilian eggplant, ricotta salata, tomato, and basil—demonstrates how traditional flavors can be elevated through technical excellence and creative vision.
Commitment to Consistency
Whether visiting Massilia's flagship location in Ruamrudee or the original Pizza Truck in Sukhumvit 49, guests experience the same exacting standards that earned Massilia its international reputation. This consistency distinguishes true culinary excellence from temporary success.
Bangkok's Evolution as an International Pizza Capital
The recognition of Chef Michele Fernando and Massilia reflects broader trends in Bangkok's culinary landscape.
Growing Appreciation for Authentic Italian Cuisine
Thai diners have developed sophisticated palates for Italian food, moving beyond adapted versions to appreciate authentic preparations. This demand has enabled restaurants like Massilia to thrive while maintaining strict adherence to Italian traditions.
Investment in Culinary Education and Technique
Bangkok's restaurant scene now features chefs who have trained internationally, studied traditional techniques, and brought expertise back to Thailand. Chef Michele represents this generation of culinary professionals committed to authentic execution.
Support from an International Community
Bangkok's diverse expatriate population and culinary tourists provide a knowledgeable audience that appreciates and supports restaurants offering genuine international cuisine. This community has been instrumental in Massilia's growth.
Experience Chef Michele Fernando's Award-Winning Pizza
For those seeking the best Italian restaurant in Bangkok and the opportunity to taste pizza crafted by one of the Top 100 Pizza Chefs in the World, Massilia offers two locations:
Address: 15/1 Soi Ruamrudee, Wireless Road, Bangkok, ThailandThe flagship location offers Massilia's complete menu in a refined yet welcoming atmosphere, perfect for experiencing the full range of Chef Michele's culinary vision.
Address: 40 Soi Sukhumvit 49, Khlong Tan Nuea, Watthana, Bangkok 10110, Thailand The original Massilia experience, where the journey began in 2015. This location maintains the casual, approachable spirit while delivering the same award-winning quality.
Both locations offer dine-in, takeaway, and delivery services, bringing world-class Italian pizza to Bangkok residents and visitors.
Reservations and Contact Information
Given Massilia's growing international recognition and consistent popularity among Bangkok diners, advance reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend dining.
Book Your Table:
📞 Phone: 094 552 2025
📲 LINE: @pizzamassiliabkk
🌐 Website: www.massiliabkk.com
📱 Instagram: @massiliabkk
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