Pizza Shops in London That Make Their Own Dough
Pizza is one of the most loved foods in the world. Its combination of crispy crust, tasty sauce, gooey cheese, and delicious toppings makes everyone’s mouth water. But did you know that not all pizza dough is created equal? In fact, one of the secrets to truly amazing pizza is the dough. Some shops use pre-made dough, but there are incredible pizza places in London that take the time to make their own dough from scratch. These efforts result in an unforgettable pizza experience.
If you’re in London and looking for pizza shops that prioritize quality and craft, check out these places famous for making their own dough. These spots don’t just offer pizza—they serve art on a plate!
Why Homemade Dough Matters
Before diving into the list of pizza shops, let’s talk about why homemade dough is so important. Dough is the foundation of any pizza. If the dough isn’t good, the pizza just won’t taste right. Homemade dough allows pizza chefs to control the flavor, texture, and freshness in ways that pre-made or frozen dough simply cannot achieve.
Freshly made dough gives pizzas a special taste and texture that stands out. Whether it’s chewy and airy or thin and crispy, the dough is crafted with love and care. Pizza shops that make their own dough often experiment with fermentation techniques, high-quality flour, and secret recipes. This extra effort pays off, making every bite a treat.
Top Pizza Shops in London That Make Their Own Dough
1. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims is a well-known pizza chain in London, and for good reason. They make their dough fresh every day, staying true to the traditional Neapolitan style of pizza-making. Their dough is soft, light, and perfectly charred in their wood-fired ovens. They also use super-fresh ingredients for their toppings, like creamy buffalo mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes. You can find Pizza Pilgrims locations all over London, making it easy to enjoy their handcrafted pizzas wherever you are.
2. Homeslice
Homeslice is famous for its huge pizzas, but the real star is their dough. Every day, their passionate team prepares the dough from scratch, ensuring it’s perfectly leavened and full of flavor. Their pizzas often feature creative toppings, like truffle mushroom and ricotta or barbecued brisket. They offer a mix of thin and crispy crusts, making it ideal for people who love variety. Homeslice has a fun and laid-back vibe, making it great for a casual meal with friends.
3. Franco Manca
Franco Manca has become a household name in London when it comes to authentic sourdough pizza. Their dough is made fresh daily using a natural sourdough starter, which gives the crust a one-of-a-kind flavor. The pizzas are baked in a wood-fired oven, creating a smoky and slightly charred crust. They also keep their menu simple, focusing on quality over quantity. If you want pizza with personality, Franco Manca is the place to go.
4. Santa Maria
For pizza lovers who crave a proper Neapolitan pizza, Santa Maria is a must-visit. Their chefs follow the rules of traditional pizza-making from Naples, including making fresh dough every day. The dough is fermented for hours, which helps develop a deep, rich taste and a wonderfully chewy texture. Their pizzas are cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven, giving the crust a lovely smoky flavor. Pair it with their authentic Italian toppings, and you’ll feel like you’re dining in Naples itself.
5. Yard Sale Pizza
Yard Sale Pizza is a bit of a hidden gem, but it’s quickly gaining popularity in London. One thing that makes Yard Sale unique is their focus on homemade dough crafted with attention to detail. The team takes their dough seriously, ensuring it’s always fresh and flavorful. Their pizzas often feature imaginative toppings, like sweet onions, sausage, and even tangy kimchi. Whether ordering for delivery or visiting one of their cozy shops, Yard Sale Pizza always delivers top-notch quality.
6. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
If you’ve ever heard of L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Naples (one of the most famous pizza spots in the world), you’ll love their London outpost. Known for their legendary margarita pizza, this shop makes its dough fresh every day using a centuries-old recipe. The result is a soft, pillowy crust that feels almost magical. They stick to simple, high-quality ingredients, proving that sometimes less is more when it comes to great pizza.
Conclusion
London is home to a growing number of pizza shops that understand the importance of homemade dough. Whether it’s the softness of Neapolitan crusts, the smokiness from wood-fired ovens, or the chewy texture of sourdough, these shops stand out by putting time and effort into their dough. When a pizza maker treats their dough like an art form, you can taste the difference in each bite.
The next time you’re in London and craving pizza, skip the big-name frozen dough chains. Instead, visit one of these amazing pizza spots. You’ll enjoy freshly made, high-quality pizza that celebrates the craft of homemade dough. After all, life is too short for bad pizza!
