Best Pizza Shops in London for Pizza and Gourmet Sides
London is famous for its amazing food scene, and when it comes to pizza, the city truly delivers. Whether you’re a fan of thin, crispy crusts or cheesy, deep-dish pies, you’ll find a variety of options in London for delicious pizza and gourmet sides that will make your taste buds dance. Let’s explore some of the best pizza shops in London where you can enjoy pizzas alongside exciting sides for a top-notch dining experience.
1. Homeslice
Homeslice is a beloved name for pizza lovers in London. Known for its 20-inch pizzas, this shop is perfect for sharing with friends and family. The crust is thin and perfectly baked, giving each slice a crispy bite. They offer unique toppings, such as mushroom truffle or BBQ beef brisket with pickles, which make their pizzas stand out.
But Homeslice isn’t just about pizza—they have some amazing sides too. Their garlic bread and fresh salads are the perfect addition to your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try pairing your pizza with their house-made dips for extra flavor.
2. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims is all about classic Neapolitan pizzas made with fresh ingredients and tons of care. Their pizzas are soft and light, with a chewy crust and vibrant tomato sauce. Some of their crowd favorites include the Margherita and their spicy ‘Nduja pizza topped with melt-in-your-mouth Italian sausage.
What makes Pizza Pilgrims extra special are their gourmet sides. Their dough balls filled with cheese and garlic butter are utterly addictive, and their tiramisu dessert is a treat for anyone with a sweet tooth. Plus, you can wash it all down with one of their craft beers or house-made lemonade.
3. Franco Manca
Franco Manca is a name you’ve probably heard if you love pizza. Famous for their sourdough crust, their pizzas have a tangy flavor and soft bite. They keep their menu simple but flawless, highlighting fresh toppings like mozzarella, cured meats, and seasonal vegetables.
As for sides, Franco Manca serves tasty starters such as cured meats, fresh burrata, and mixed olives. Their salads, especially the rocket and parmesan salad, are always fresh, light, and refreshing, making them perfect to enjoy alongside their pizzas.
4. Santa Maria
If you’re after authentic Italian pizza, Santa Maria is a top choice. Located in locations like Ealing and Islington, this charming little pizza shop brings flavors straight from Naples. Their dough is fermented for several hours and baked in a wood-fired oven, creating pizzas that are crispy and full of flavor. The toppings, like buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil, are always high-quality.
Santa Maria’s sides are equally worth mentioning. Their arancini (rice balls stuffed with cheese and other fillings) and antipasti platters make a great start to your meal. And don’t miss their creamy tiramisu or panna cotta for dessert!
5. Yard Sale Pizza
Yard Sale Pizza combines great pizza with a laid-back, friendly vibe. Their hand-stretched pizzas are packed with flavor, from their simple “Cheesy C” pizza to their creative specialty pizzas with toppings like pepperoni, fennel sausage, or vegan options like jackfruit.
For sides, Yard Sale Pizza has you covered with indulgent garlic bread sticks, refreshing dips, and fresh salads. Their mac ‘n’ cheese side is an absolute must-try—it’s cheesy, creamy, and pairs perfectly with any pizza. Another bonus? They offer great options for vegan and gluten-free diners, so everyone can enjoy the feast.
6. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
If you’re a fan of traditional pizza, you’ll love L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Famous from the movie Eat Pray Love, this shop makes some of the finest Neapolitan pizzas in London. Their pizzas are simple yet unforgettable, with mouthwatering Margherita and Marinara options topped with fresh ingredients and baked to perfection.
Pair these pizzas with their sides, like mixed salads and crispy calamari. Their desserts, especially the Nutella-stuffed pizza dough pockets, are a sweet ending to the meal you won’t want to miss.
7. Crust Bros
Crust Bros has quickly become a favorite in London for its delicious custom-made pizzas. Here, you can pick your toppings and design your dream pizza, from the sauce to the cheeses and meats. Their crusts are made from fresh dough baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
Crust Bros also shines with its sides, serving crispy chicken wings, cheesy garlic bread, and crunchy salads. If you’re in the mood for dessert, their Nutella calzone is a decadent treat that’s too good to resist.
Gourmet Sides Make the Experience Even Better
Many pizza shops in London understand that great pizza is even better when paired with delicious sides. From cheesy garlic bread and savory dips to fresh salads and indulgent desserts, these gourmet extras take your meal to the next level. Whether you’re dining out with friends or grabbing takeout for a relaxing night at home, these pizza shops ensure you have a wide range of options.
Conclusion
London offers a treasure trove of amazing pizza shops where you can find everything from authentic Italian recipes to creative new takes on this classic dish. But it’s not just the pizzas that shine—these restaurants also serve incredible gourmet sides to complete your meal. So next time you’re craving pizza, why not visit one of these spots? You’ll leave with a satisfied stomach and a smile on your face.
