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What is a DOP cheese… and why does it matter to us at La Corte Segreta?

Sep 30, 2025
1 min read

What does the designation DOP really mean? And why is it so important in our cooking and in our choice of certain products, particularly our cheeses?

DOP is the Italian acronym for Denominazione di Origine Protetta which translates as Protected Designation of Origin (PDO). This European label protects an agricultural or food product whose production, processing and preparation take place in a defined geographical area, using recognised and rigorously controlled expertise.


In plain terms? A DOP cheese cannot be made just anywhere or in just any way. It is shaped by history, its terroir and a craft handed down through generations.


By choosing DOP products, we affirm our commitment to quality. We champion a certain idea of Italy: that of passionate producers, artisan families and preserved landscapes.


For example, the mozzarella di bufala we use is an exceptional cheese, made exclusively from buffalo milk in its region of origin, using protected expertise.


At La Corte Segreta, every Margherita dei Savoia is topped with our DOP-certified Mozzarella di Bufala Campana. We also use other products with the protected DOP designation, including Gorgonzola, Grana Padano, Parmigiano Reggiano, peeled San Marzano tomatoes and many more…


Official D.O.P logo (Italian)
Official D.O.P logo (Italian)

To learn more, here is a link to an official source in French: HERE


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La Corte Segreta Pizzeria Soignies


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certified artisan

CRAFTSMANSHIP CERTIFIED BY THE BELGIAN STATE

The pizzaiolo of La Corte Segreta (Casteau, Soignies) is officially recognised as a certified artisan by the Federal Public Service Economy, a Belgian government body.

This title was awarded by the SPF Économie panel following a complete assessment of the pizza-making process, from start to finish. The methods used reflect those of a true artisan, combining age-old, traditional techniques with a meticulous choice of ingredients of the highest quality.

This distinction, protected by the law of 19 March 2014, recognises authentic, traditional, manual craftsmanship in the art of pizza.

A rare title. A source of pride.
A guarantee of excellence.

City of soignies

HONORARY CITIZEN OF THE CITY

The pizzaiolo of La Corte Segreta has received the official title of Honorary Citizen of the City of Soignies for helping raise the city’s profile through his victories in several national competitions dedicated to the art of pizza. The title was presented to him by the Mayor, Fabienne WINCKEL, and the Director-General of the City of Soignies, Olivier MAILLET.

An honour that reflects the excellence and passion brought to La Corte Segreta every day.

le petit fute restaurant

RECOMMENDED BY PETIT FUTÉ 2025

"La Corte Segreta, a high-quality pizzeria"

​La Corte Segreta beautifully captures the spirit of the osterie of old, where every detail, from the thoughtfully designed décor to the warmly immersive atmosphere, invites you on a timeless sensory journey.

At La Corte Segreta, we wish to preserve a calm, refined atmosphere, which is why we do not welcome children under 10 in the dining room. Thank you for your understanding. LEARN MORE

SITE MAP

LA CORTE SEGRETA · OSTERIA & PIZZERIA

CVLTVRA & TRADIZIONE

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Italian restaurant, artisan pizzeria and osteria in Casteau, near Soignies and Mons.

Chaussée de Bruxelles 85A, Casteau (Soignies) 7061.

Phone for reservations or takeaway orders:  0470 179 319

Open Wednesday to Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm, and Sunday from 6 pm to 9 pm.

Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.​​

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www.lacortesegreta.be

Pizzaiolo crimi salvatore’s signature

©2026 LA CORTE SEGRETA

ARTIS·PRAGMA·OMEGA·SYNESIS

GRADVS I

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