Ladro on Gertrude St is now something of an institution, having seen the creation of a sibling venue southside and the original owners depart to create the comparable Supermaxi in North Fitzroy. I missed the initial rush and hype and so never reviewed it. When I put it on my ‘tell me where to go’ list, I never expected it to win. I think some peeople vote more for what is familiar than what they want to be informed about. Ladro is open for lunch only on Sundays, and that is when I went.

It’s a good time to go as it’s quiet early in the afternoon on Sunday. Sitting in the window area sipping a chinotto and watching the street is most pleasant, and the pizza is excellent. I’d like to try some of the bigger, richer dishes sometime, but pizza was enough for me on this occasion. Ladro is recommended for the good, the attentive service and the strong coffee that finished my meal. It’s been reviewed by many, with two relatively recent reviews being by A food story and The very very hungry caterpillar.

As I do my best to remember to comment on the accessibility of the venue, I don’t have to try hard in this instance. While I sat there a group of six arrived, including an elderly woman in a three wheeled electric mobility scooter. One member of the party came inside to announce their arrival, and a staff member came out immediately to latch the door open and ensure the entrance was accessible. The woman, assisted by a friend, walked inside and over the low single step inside. The party had been given the first table in the door to minimise her need to walk further.

On a final note, Ladro follows Mario’s full cream milk only manifesto. No soy or skim for you!