Ballers Pizzeria introduces new menu and head chef

Ballers Pizzeria in Lakeside, Cardiff, has appointed Giacomo Rimanti as its new head chef.

Ballers Pizzeria was first established in 2020, starting life as a pop-up with a van, then evolving into a hatch in Heath, before opening the first bricks-and-mortar site in Lakeside in December 2023.

Focused on hand-stretched Neapolitan-style pizzas with Spanish influences, Ballers is a go-to spot for pizza, craft beers, cocktails and wine in Lakeside.

Chef Rimanti now joins Ballers from the acclaimed (and recently closed) 591 by Anatoni’s in Canton, Cardiff, bringing with him a passion for bold flavours and high-quality ingredients.

New menu additions

Rimanti's arrival comes with a host of exciting new additions to the Ballers menu, available from 1 April. New sides include Spanish-style paprika chicken with spicy mayo, deep-fried coated cauliflower served with bravas sauce and anchovies and provolone cheese served on baked dough. 

Many of the brand's most popular pizzas remain part of the offering, sitting alongside some of Rimanti's new creations: El Serranto – tomato and mozzarella with red peppers, Serrano, rocket and galmesan; El Mexicana – bravas sauce with mozzarella, spicy paprika chicken, pink onions, chillies, pineapple and jalapeño chutney; and El Verde – a wild garlic pesto base with courgette, olives, cherry tomatoes and red onion. 

In addition to the revamped food and cocktail menus, Ballers is gearing up for a busy 2025 with the launch of three new weekly offers including any two pizzas for £20 on Tuesdays, any two cocktails for £15 on Wednesdays and two pizzas, two sides and a bottle of Spanish house red, white or rosé on Thursdays. 

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Giacomo to the Ballers team,” says Benito Martinez, co-owner of Ballers. “His creativity and expertise will breathe fresh life into our menu while staying true to our Spanish influences and dedication to top-quality produce. With the addition of our new offers too, we’re looking forward to a busy spring-summer season at Ballers—whether you’re planning to visit us with friends, family or your significant other for some great pizza and cocktails, we’ve got you covered.”

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