When it comes to pizza in London, the capital has developed a truly dynamic and diverse pizza scene. Over the years, several pizzerias have stood out for their exceptional craftsmanship, innovative flavors, and dedication to authentic techniques. While Pizza Express played a pivotal role in bringing pizza to Londoners, the city now boasts a range of specialized pizzerias that elevate the humble pizza to new heights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of the best pizzerias in London, each offering a unique take on the beloved dish.
1. Napoli on the Road
Recently crowned the best pizzeria in Europe by the prestigious 50 Top Pizza Awards, Napoli on the Road in Chiswick and Richmond is the brainchild of Michele Pascarella, a globally recognized pizzaiolo. Pascarella’s journey began with a mobile pizza truck, and his commitment to delivering high-quality, seasonally-inspired Neapolitan pizza quickly earned him a dedicated following.
Napoli on the Road is renowned for its light, airy crust, which is slow-fermented to perfection and topped with seasonal, farm-fresh ingredients. The menu changes every three months to ensure the freshest ingredients are used, making every visit a unique culinary experience. Their commitment to sustainability and seasonal produce adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to each slice. Standout pizzas include the classic Margherita, but don’t overlook the more experimental offerings like Nduja with burrata(Napoli On The Road)(Time Out Worldwide).
2. 50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo
Situated near Trafalgar Square, 50 Kalò di Ciro Salvo is the London branch of one of Naples’ most famous pizzerias. Ciro Salvo is a third-generation master pizzaiolo known for his innovative dough fermentation techniques, which result in an exceptionally light and digestible pizza crust. His scientific approach to hydration—70% water to flour—creates a pizza that is soft yet structured, with just the right amount of chew.
The London branch of 50 Kalò has earned a top-three ranking in Europe’s 50 Top Pizza Awards and has been praised for its authenticity. The Margherita is a must-try, featuring rich San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella flown in from Campania. For something a little different, the Carbonara pizza, topped with creamy white sauce and smoky bacon, is an indulgent choice(50 Kalo)(vening Standard)(Time Out Worldwide).
3. L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele in Soho is the London outpost of the world-renowned pizzeria in Naples, which has been serving pizzas since 1870. Famous for its ultra-simple menu—just two pizzas, Margherita and Marinara—the Soho location sticks to the original formula, emphasizing quality over quantity. The pizza here is all about tradition: a perfectly thin, soft base with a slight char from the wood-fired oven, a rich tomato sauce, and just the right amount of mozzarella.
The pizzeria gained international fame after being featured in Eat, Pray, Love, and it lives up to its reputation as “the world’s best pizza” by maintaining a purist’s approach to pizza-making. If you’re a fan of minimalist, authentic Neapolitan pizza, Da Michele is a must-visit(Anticapizzeria)(Anticapizzeria).
4. Crisp W6
A more recent addition to the London pizza scene, Crisp W6 has quickly gained a cult following for its unique take on New Haven-style pizza. Located in Hammersmith, this pizzeria serves pizzas with an extraordinarily crispy base, as the name suggests. The dough is meticulously crafted to achieve the perfect balance between crispiness and chewiness, offering a distinct texture that sets it apart from the traditional Neapolitan style.
Owner Carl McCluskey launched Crisp W6 during the pandemic, and it started as a takeaway-only venue. Today, it operates within The Chancellors pub, offering a cozy setting to enjoy the likes of the Vecna pizza, topped with pepperoni, parmesan, burrata, and hot honey, or the indulgent Nduja Pie. Crisp W6 has a no-reservations policy, so expect queues, but the pizza is worth the wait(Tripadvisor)(The Infatuation)(Evening Standard).
5. Zia Lucia
With multiple locations across London, including Holloway Road and Wembley, Zia Lucia is known for its variety of pizza doughs, each slow-fermented for 48 hours. You can choose from traditional white, wholemeal, gluten-free, or even a striking black dough made with activated charcoal. The range of doughs is one of the things that makes Zia Lucia unique, allowing you to tailor your pizza experience based on your preferences.
The pizzas at Zia Lucia are light and easily digestible, with toppings that range from classic to creative. The Andrea Pirlo pizza, featuring mozzarella, gorgonzola, apple, and truffle, is a fan favorite, as is the Nduja pizza for those who enjoy a bit of spice. The combination of unique doughs and high-quality toppings makes Zia Lucia a standout in London’s pizza landscape(Zia Lucia)(The Working Line)(Homegirl London).
6. Pizzeria Pappagone
Located in Finsbury Park, Pizzeria Pappagone is a local favorite that has been serving authentic Italian pizzas for over two decades. This lively, family-run restaurant offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and pizzas that are generously portioned and reasonably priced. The wood-fired oven ensures that the pizzas have a perfectly charred crust, while the extensive menu caters to all tastes, from classic Margheritas to more adventurous toppings like porcini mushrooms and truffle oil.
Pappagone’s charm lies in its unpretentious, community-driven approach. It’s the kind of place where locals gather for casual dinners, and the friendly service adds to the overall experience. If you’re in North London, Pappagone is the go-to spot for a comforting, authentic Italian meal(SquareMeal)(Uber Eats)(Restaurant Guru).
Conclusion
London’s pizza scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Whether you’re a fan of the soft, traditional Neapolitan style or prefer something with a bit more crunch, there’s a pizzeria for every palate. From the artisanal, seasonal approach at Napoli on the Road to the New Haven-inspired pies at Crisp W6, each of these pizzerias brings something unique to the table. So next time you’re in London and craving pizza, skip the chains and head to one of these exceptional spots—you won’t be disappointed.
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