Best Pizza Shops in London for Handcrafted Pizzas
When it comes to pizza, nothing beats the taste of a freshly handcrafted slice. London, being a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, offers some of the best artisanal pizza shops you’ll find anywhere. Whether you prefer thin and crispy bases or thick and chewy slices, the city has something for everyone. In this blog, we’ll take a look at five of the best pizza places in London that serve authentic handcrafted pizzas made with love.
1. Homeslice Pizza
If you enjoy sharing enormous pizzas with friends, Homeslice is the place to go. Known for their 20-inch pizzas, Homeslice combines simplicity with bold flavors. They focus on quality over quantity with a menu that offers a handful of unique options. From the classic margherita to inventive toppings like mushroom, truffle, and ricotta, Homeslice makes pizza an experience to remember.
Homeslice has multiple locations around London, from Covent Garden to Shoreditch, making it convenient to stop by for a slice or a whole pizza to share. Don’t worry if you can’t handle a giant pizza – they also have smaller single slices available for those seeking just a bite. Their pizzas are handcrafted from scratch, giving every slice the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
Must-Try: Mushroom, Truffle & Ricotta Pizza
2. Franco Manca
Franco Manca is almost a household name when it comes to sourdough pizzas in London. Their pizzas are made using slow-fermentation sourdough bases, which gives them a unique tangy flavor and a light, airy texture. Franco Manca is all about simplicity – every pizza is carefully created with high-quality ingredients sourced both locally and from Italy.
With over 50 locations in London, Franco Manca is easy to find. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite during lunch or a casual dinner, the cozy atmosphere and consistently great pizzas make this a go-to spot for many Londoners. For vegans and vegetarians, Franco Manca offers some great options too.
Must-Try: Salami Pizza or the Veggie Special
3. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims serves up authentic Neapolitan pizzas that are both delicious and affordable. Their focus is all about creating pizzas with perfect dough, quality ingredients, and traditional Italian techniques. With soft, pillowy crusts and a slightly charred finish from their wood-fired ovens, their pizzas are bursting with flavor.
One of the things that makes Pizza Pilgrims stand out is their fun approach to pizza-making. You’ll find quirky pizza options like Carbonara Pizza, which features egg yolk and pancetta, or the Nutella Ring dessert pizza for those with a sweet tooth. The vibe at Pizza Pilgrims is relaxed and cheerful, making it a great spot for casual dining with friends or family.
Must-Try: Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey
4. Santa Maria Pizzeria
Santa Maria Pizzeria is frequently praised as one of the best spots for authentic Neapolitan pizza in London. Using ingredients direct from Naples, their pizzas feature fluffy crusts and traditional toppings like buffalo mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes. Each pizza is made by expert pizzaiolos who specialize in crafting pizza the Italian way.
The restaurant itself has a cozy and simple setup, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a small pizzeria in Naples. People rave about Santa Maria’s attention to detail when it comes to flavor and presentation. For those who love the classics, this is where you’ll find some of the tastiest margherita pizzas in London.
Must-Try: Margherita Pizza with Buffalo Mozzarella
5. Ladro (Ex-Flat Iron Square)
Located in Flat Iron Square near London Bridge, Ladro specializes in classic handmade pizzas with creative modern twists. This little gem is all about fresh, seasonal ingredients paired with thin, crispy bases. They offer some exciting flavor combinations, like wild mushrooms with truffle oil or slow-cooked meats paired with tangy cheeses.
Ladro is particularly popular with foodies who enjoy diverse flavors. The restaurant’s intimate atmosphere makes it great for date nights or small groups of friends. Plus, they take pride in their sustainability efforts with carefully sourced ingredients from ethical suppliers. Their pizzas have a distinctly artisanal feel that sets them apart.
Must-Try: Truffle & Wild Mushroom Pizza
Why Handcrafted Pizzas Are Special
Handcrafted pizzas stand out because they’re made with care and attention to detail. Unlike mass-produced pizzas, these artisanal pies are created using fresh dough, high-quality ingredients, and traditional techniques. Skilled pizzaiolos ensure every pizza is perfectly balanced, from its golden crust to its flavorful toppings. The result? A pizza that isn’t just food but a work of art.
Final Thoughts
London is a paradise for pizza lovers. Whether you want traditional Neapolitan-style pies, sourdough bases, or unique toppings, the city’s pizza scene has it all. Homeslice, Franco Manca, Pizza Pilgrims, Santa Maria, and Ladro are just a few of the standout options where you can enjoy mouthwatering handcrafted pizzas.
So, next time you’re in London and have a craving for pizza, be sure to visit one of these amazing spots. You won’t regret indulging in a slice or two (or three). After all, life is too short to eat bad pizza!
