The Best Pizza Shops in London for Pizza and Wine Pairings
If you’re a fan of pizza and wine, London is the place to be. The city is packed with cozy pizza shops and trendy restaurants, offering delicious pies paired perfectly with a lovely glass of wine. Whether you’re looking for a casual night out or a more upscale experience, there’s no shortage of options. In this blog post, we’ll highlight some of the best spots in London where you can enjoy mouthwatering pizza and expertly paired wines in a welcoming atmosphere.
1. Homeslice
If you love large slices and bold flavors, Homeslice is a must-visit. Known for their giant 20-inch pizzas, Homeslice offers creative toppings like fennel sausage, smoked salmon, or pumpkin. Their thin crust pizzas are baked to perfection, and the mix of flavors is sure to excite your taste buds.
Pairings are simple but effective here. Homeslice offers natural wines that complement their creative toppings wonderfully. For example, their wood-fired mushroom pizza goes beautifully with a crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc, while their spicy sausage pizza pairs well with a fruity red like Pinot Noir. With multiple locations across London, it’s easy to find a Homeslice spot for a perfect pizza and wine evening.
2. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims is a classic choice for lovers of authentic Neapolitan-style pizza. Their soft, chewy crust and fresh Italian ingredients make for a truly memorable experience. Whether you prefer a traditional margherita or want to try something adventurous like nduja sausage and burrata, they cater to all pizza enthusiasts.
When it comes to wine pairings, Pizza Pilgrims keeps it simple but delicious. Their wine selection is predominantly Italian, featuring light reds like Chianti and refreshing whites like Pinot Grigio. A margherita pizza with a chilled glass of Italian Rosé is a match made in heaven. Pizza Pilgrims is ideal for those who enjoy a casual, fun atmosphere while indulging in classic pizza flavors.
3. Franco Manca
Franco Manca has earned a loyal following in London thanks to its sourdough crust and fresh, organic toppings. Their pizzas are made with a naturally fermented dough that’s soft, flavorful, and offers a unique texture. The menu features staples like mozzarella and basil, as well as seasonal specials with high-quality ingredients.
Franco Manca’s wine list is carefully curated to match their sourdough pizzas. If you’re ordering a rich, meaty pizza like their spicy lamb sausage option, go for an earthy red wine like Montepulciano or Barbera. For vegetarian options such as their four-cheese pizza, a dry white like Vermentino works wonders. With its relaxed vibe and affordable prices, Franco Manca is perfect for a family dinner or casual catch-up with friends.
4. Santa Maria Pizzeria
Santa Maria Pizzeria brings true Italian flair to the streets of London. Known for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas, this shop uses ingredients imported directly from Naples, such as San Marzano tomatoes and creamy buffalo mozzarella. Their pizzas are simple yet rich in flavor and cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven.
Santa Maria shines when it comes to wine pairings. Their Italian wines, including Tuscan reds and Campanian whites, are carefully chosen to complement the robust flavors of their pizzas. For example, their signature Santa Maria pizza, with spicy salami and fresh chili, tastes incredible with a glass of Chianti. Santa Maria Pizzeria’s intimate ambiance makes it a great choice for a date night.
5. L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele
If you’ve ever seen the movie Eat, Pray, Love, you might remember L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele, which is hailed as one of the best pizza spots in Naples. Their London location delivers the same legendary Neapolitan pizza experience, with simple yet unbelievably satisfying pies. The menu focuses on the classics: margherita and marinara.
While the pizza menu may be minimal, the wine list doesn’t disappoint. Pair a margherita pizza with a medium-bodied red like Aglianico or a bright white wine like Trebbiano. The pureness of flavor in their pizzas allows the carefully selected wines to truly shine. If you’re a pizza purist looking for an authentic experience, this is the place for you.
6. Zia Lucia
Zia Lucia is famous for its range of unique pizza bases. You’ll find options like traditional, gluten-free, wholemeal, and even charcoal dough. Their toppings are equally enticing, with a mix of classic Italian flavors and creative combinations, such as truffle, honey, and spicy meats.
Zia Lucia’s wine selection is diverse and offers something for every palate. A charcoal-base pizza topped with earthy mushrooms pairs perfectly with a bold red like Syrah, while their lighter pizzas with fresh veggies are ideal with a crisp Prosecco. Zia Lucia’s inventive approach to pizza and wine pairing makes it a standout choice for adventurous diners.
7. Yard Sale Pizza
For a truly laid-back pizza and wine night, check out Yard Sale Pizza. Known for its quirky toppings and community-focused vibe, this shop serves pizzas that are both comforting and creative. From their award-winning “The Holy Pepperoni” to vegetarian options like the “Courgette & Artichoke,” every dish is prepared with love.
Yard Sale’s wine list leans heavily on crowd-pleasers like Merlot and Chardonnay, which are versatile enough to pair with their fun, flavorful pizzas. A pepperoni pizza with a glass of Merlot is wonderfully rich, while their veggie-friendly pizzas go great with a bottle of chilled white wine. If you’re hosting a night in, they even offer takeaway wines alongside your pizza!
Final Thoughts
London is full of hidden gems for pizza and wine lovers. Whether you’re craving the classics or looking for something a bit more experimental, there’s a pizza shop that fits your mood. From sourdough perfection at Franco Manca to adventurous flavors at Zia Lucia, these spots offer unbeatable pairing experiences. So, gather your friends, grab a glass of wine, and dive into the world of pizza in London. Whatever your taste, there’s a shop here ready to serve up your perfect pairing!
