Forget strawberries and oysters – pizza is the real aphrodisiac and a must for hot date nights

According to Mat Bourget, pizza connoisseur and founder of fast growing pizza restaurant chain, Il Locale Pizza, the best food for romance isn't oysters, strawberries or even chocolate, it's pizza. Not just any pizza, but the kind that's hand-stretched, lovingly prepared and folded into your hand, ready to share.

"There's something deeply sensual about eating with your fingers," Bourget said.

"Pizza invites closeness. It's warm, comforting and playful. You pick it up, fold it, pass it across the table. That's romance.

"In fact, we have seen more marriage proposals and relationship arguments settled over pizza than any other food.  It really is the food of love.  If anyone out there is looking for a hot date night with someone then pizza has got to be it. 

"Everyone loves a good… pizza."

Why pizza brings people closer

Unlike fine dining or overly formal meals, pizza lowers the pressure. It encourages conversation, laughter and ease. 

"You don't have to worry about which fork to use or how you look when you're cutting a steak," Bourget explained.

"You're focused on flavour and fun, not etiquette. Pizza is a great leveller and it removes the friction and pressure to eat with utensils without buggering things up."

Bourget believes this relaxed atmosphere is what makes pizza so effective at creating connection. Whether it's debating toppings, stealing a slice or leaning in to share, the moments that happen over a pizza are unforced and memorable.

A sensory experience that ignites attraction

The tactile nature of pizza, warm in your hands, rich with aromas, full of texture, creates a multi-sensory experience that goes far beyond taste.

"It's hot, messy in the best way and you get to use your hands," says Bourget.

"That kind of sensory involvement sparks something primal and fun. You're not just eating. You're experiencing something together."

Aphrodisiac ingredients that enhance the experience

Several foods often associated with aphrodisiacs can be incorporated into pizza toppings to heighten the romantic appeal. Chili peppers increase heart rate and trigger feel-good endorphins, while garlic and onions stimulate circulation. Even fruits like figs or bananas can bring a subtle sensuality to the dish. And for dessert? Bourget suggests thinking outside the box. 

"Dark chocolate isn't a traditional pizza topping, but on a dessert pizza it's pure indulgence, especially when paired with something creamy or fruity," he said.

"Chocolate is so sexy.  We have created a number of pizzas that feature Nutella and they are incredibly popular, especially for date nights.  Nothing says I can't wait to kiss you than a mouth full of Nutella pizza."

Sharing food, sharing feelings

At its core, pizza is about sharing which is exactly what builds intimacy. 

"You tear off a slice, you pass it to someone, you laugh about the cheese stretch or argue about who gets the last piece," Bourget said.

"All of it builds a moment and those moments build closeness."

Not just food - an emotional trigger

Pizza also carries powerful nostalgic energy. 

"Everyone has a good memory tied to pizza," Bourget added.

"Childhood birthdays, late-night chats, holidays. Bringing that energy into a date night unlocks joy and joy is incredibly attractive."

The perfect food for love

So what should a couple look for in a date night pizza?

"Something made with care. Something with bold flavour, that you can eat with your hands and enjoy without rules," Bourget said.

"Great pizza doesn't just feed the body, it opens people up."

About Il Locale Pizza

Founded in Perth by Mat Bourget, Il Locale Pizza is a fast-growing, independent pizza brand known for its sourdough artisan pizzas, modern Italian street food flavour and electric energy. With six locations and a national franchise program on the horizon, Il Locale is flipping the script on what it means to run a pizza business in Australia.

Social handles

Website: www.illocalepizza.com.au
Instagram: @illocalebestinthewest
Founder Instagram: @mateuspipa
Osteria Concept: @osteriaillocale
Bodega Scarborough: @bodega_perth