In the mood for a slice of authentic, laidback dining in the heart of Mudgeeraba Village? Look no further than Lenny Pizzeria & Bar owned by Rob Morwood (well-known Gold Coast culinary legend), and Oliver Botha.
The lads planned to launch their new venue in March with a few soft openings, but there was no time for such luxury! The community immediately embraced this laid-back, affordable, family-friendly eaty, and Lenny is already booked out most nights.
Locals love it so much they are regularly dropping off homegrown fruit and veges such as basil, parsley, finger limes, and even eggs!
"The support of the local community has blown us away!" says Rob.
If you plan on dining there, jump onto their super-efficient online booking page; these guys hardly have time to answer the phone, such is the positive response to Mudgeeraba’s latest gem. There’s already talk of ripping out the current pizza oven to "up the capacity and meet the overwhelming demand."
Currently they can seat almost 100 diners in an appealing and charming alfresco setting.
"We have awesome plans. We just want to make it better and better, says Rob. "We are also looking at developing live music options further down the track."
Following the incredible success of Justin Lane, Rob has been in a "hospitality wilderness" for a few years while looking for the right spot to start again.
"I’m surprised no-one’s seen the opportunity of this location before," he says. "It’s an old venue but an underutilised venue screaming with potential. I’ve also been looking for an opportunity to partner in a new venture and could look no further than Ollie who was my kick-arse apprentice."
"The thought of having something of my own was a little terrifying," says Ollie. "Initially I was wary but with Rob’s encouragement it’s all happening."
The pizzas are utterly delectable, especially the Aleppo spiced lamb. And don’t overlook the underrated mushroom choice featuring a Porcini base and sauteed Swiss browns!
The dough is crafted onsite and is a three to four day process, which goes a long way to explaining why it is simply perfect! A choice of delicious small plates are available too including pork and beef meatballs and Sicilian olives. Gluten free options easily available too, and be sure to save room for the house made ice-cream.
Let's not forget the bar, which has something for everyone from craft beers to cocktails. The margaritas are a perfect way to kick off the night. And good wines at a good price complement the authentic Italian menu.
Lenny is open from 4.30pm to 9pm Tuesdays -Saturday.
Remember, be sure to book first at lennypizzeria.com
