Discover Vintage Pizza Shops in London: A Slice of Nostalgia
London is a city full of sights, history, and exciting places. Among its popular destinations are pizza shops that offer more than just delicious food—they bring vintage vibes that transport you to another time. Imagine enjoying a mouthwatering pizza while sitting in a cozy shop filled with retro décor, old-fashioned music, and charming details that make your meal unforgettable. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey through some of the best vintage pizza spots in London. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these pizza shops will fill your belly and your heart with joy.
1. The Covent Garden Gem – Homeslice
Homeslice in Covent Garden is not just a pizza shop; it’s a feast for the senses. Located in a historic building with exposed brick walls and wooden beams, Homeslice blends old-world charm with modern comfort. The vintage lighting gives the shop a warm and inviting glow. It feels like stepping into an old-school neighborhood hangout.
Their pizzas are gigantic—20-inch masterpieces that can be shared between friends or chosen by the slice for a smaller appetite. The toppings are creative and mouthwatering, such as mushrooms with truffle cream, or classic margherita. Homeslice lets you mix and match toppings for one pizza, so everyone leaves satisfied. The cozy atmosphere and delicious food make Homeslice an ideal spot for anyone looking for retro vibes and tasty pies.
2. Authentic Italian with Rustic Charm – Franco Manca
Franco Manca is a well-known name in London for authentic sourdough pizza. Its roots date back to a small pizzeria in Brixton, and now it has many locations across the city. Each Franco Manca restaurant keeps a rustic style with vintage-inspired furniture, chalkboard menus, and earthy tones.
The focus here is simplicity: high-quality ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Their pizzas feature fresh, organic produce and toppings like cured chorizo, wild mushrooms, or creamy buffalo mozzarella. The traditional wood-fired ovens create a perfect smoky flavor that adds to the experience. If you’re in search of pizzas with authenticity and vintage vibes, Franco Manca won’t disappoint.
3. Retro Chic – Pizza East Shoreditch
Pizza East, located in Shoreditch, is the perfect example of blending vintage aesthetics with chic style. Housed in an old tea warehouse, the shop has a unique industrial look. Wooden floors and rustic furniture meet modern touches, like big communal tables and funky light fixtures. It’s hip yet relaxed, making it a great place to unwind while enjoying pizza.
Besides its cool vibe, Pizza East serves a delicious menu of crispy, thin-crust pizzas topped with bold flavors. Popular choices include prosciutto with burrata or spicy sausage with broccoli. The menu also includes sides like creamy mac and cheese or arancini, perfect for rounding out your meal. It’s a great spot for pizza lovers who appreciate retro charm with a modern twist.
4. Hidden Treasure – Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims is another favorite among vintage pizza shops in London. Inspired by traditional Neapolitan pizza, the founders of Pizza Pilgrims started their journey by traveling through Italy to learn the art of pizza-making. Their shops bring a playful, retro vibe with colorful designs, quirky decorations, and nostalgic arcade games.
Their pizzas are crafted with care, featuring sourdough bases topped with fresh ingredients like tangy tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and even creative toppings like hot honey or nduja sausage. Pizza Pilgrims embraces a relaxed and friendly vibe, making it a great place for families, dates, or catching up with friends.
5. Timeless Elegance – Pizzeria Apollo
For those seeking vintage vibes with a touch of elegance, Pizzeria Apollo in Central London is the place to go. The shop has an old-Hollywood feel, with starry light fixtures, retro framed photos, and plush seating that makes every meal feel special. It’s vintage with a glamorous twist.
Their pizzas are a combination of classic Italian recipes and modern creativity. Think fresh basil, crushed tomatoes, and high-quality cheeses layered on crispy, thin crusts. Pizzeria Apollo also offers a lovely selection of cocktails and desserts, so you can indulge in a full dining experience.
6. Quirky and Fun – Lost Boys Pizza
If you like your vintage vibes with a twist of quirkiness, Lost Boys Pizza is the ultimate destination. Themed around the cult vampire film “The Lost Boys,” this shop has a rock-and-roll attitude with gothic decorations, posters, and dim lighting that feels like stepping into another world. It’s definitely not your average pizza shop.
Lost Boys Pizza is known for its “black charcoal” pizzas—crispy crusts made with activated charcoal for a totally unique, flavorful experience. Toppings are bold and creative, like roasted garlic, caramelized onions, and spicy peppers. Their bold theme and fun atmosphere make this place ideal for adventurous pizza fans.
Conclusion
London’s vintage pizza shops offer more than just food—they create an atmosphere that takes you back in time. From chic industrial vibes to quirky retro themes, there’s a spot for every kind of pizza lover. Try Homeslice for sharing huge pizzas in a cozy setting or visit Franco Manca for authentic Italian simplicity. Dive into the cool style of Pizza East or explore Pizza Pilgrims’ playful charm. For those craving elegance, Pizzeria Apollo is a classic pick, while Lost Boys Pizza adds a quirky, unforgettable twist.
Next time you’re in London, skip the ordinary and explore these extraordinary vintage pizza shops. They’ll serve you not just great pizza, but also a slice of nostalgia that will stay with you long after your meal. Happy pizza hunting!
