This award-winning pizza chef has just opened his own pizza truck!
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Remember when a Canberra chef was named as one of the Top 100 pizza chefs in the world? Well, he’s coming to you – or rather, his new pizza truck could be.
Coming in at 100th place in The Best Chef Awards (and as just one of two Australians named) might not have been on Thapa Magar Hemnath’s 2023 bingo card.
But it’s a fitting accolade for the passionate pizza chef, known as Hem, who has just launched his very own pizza truck – Hem & Co Mobile Pizzeria.
It’s been a big few years for Hem, who first appeared on Canberra foodies’ radars at Pizza Artigiana, perfecting the art of true Italian-style pizzas. But funnily enough, Hem never meant to make pizza is life’s work.
“My pizza journey began in Sydney pizzerias,” explains Hem. “It started as a job but slowly I fell in love with pizzas and started loving everything about it, from making dough to fermenting to cooking. “It’s so amazing – I love every bit of this process and I’m so passionate about it.”
Now, Chef Hem will be bringing this passion for pizza to you for your next event or gathering in his adorable mini truck with bright yellow pizza oven on the back.
“My new venture is a mobile pizzeria that brings delicious, handcrafted pizzas to any location in Canberra. Canberrans can expect fresh, high-quality ingredients, a variety of classic and creative pizzas, and the convenience of enjoying our food at events, parties, or any gathering.”
“We are available for private events such as weddings, birthdays, corporate gatherings, and community parties. In the future, you can catch us at local festivals, farmers’ markets, and public celebrations around Canberra.”
Serving up a selection of classics and “creative seasonal specials” Chef Hem assures us that Margherita lovers won’t go hungry, and neither will those who love a twist on an old favourite.
As for what a pizza chef likes on his pizza?
“My personal favourite pizza toppings are fresh mozzarella, hot salami, Italian sausage, Gorgonzola, Provolone cheese, Parmesan cheese and extra virgin olive oil.”
Yum. We’ll take two.
With bookings now open for events for 2024 and beyond, Chef Hem is excited to bring exceptional pizza to every corner of Canberra for as long as he can.
“I never stop thinking and I love what I’m doing. I’m gonna do this thing for the rest of my life.”
Photography supplied
