Best Pizza Shops in London for Pizza Tastings
Looking for the best pizza in London? You’re in the right place! London offers an amazing variety of pizza shops, each with its own style and flavors. Whether you love thin crispy slices, cheesy deep-dish, or creative toppings, there’s a pizza spot in London that will make your taste buds happy. This article highlights some of the best pizza shops for trying delicious, freshly-made pies in the city. So, grab a fork—or just use your hands—and let’s dive in.
1. Franco Manca
Franco Manca is one of London’s most famous pizza chains. Their sourdough pizzas are a favorite among pizza lovers. The dough is soft, slightly chewy, and packed with flavor, thanks to the fermentation process. They cook the pizzas in a wood-fired oven, which gives each slice a delightful smoky taste.
Franco Manca’s menu is simple but offers something for everyone. Whether you go for a classic Margherita or try their daily special, you’re guaranteed a tasty experience. They also cater to vegan and vegetarian diets and offer gluten-free options. With many locations across London, it’s a great choice for easy and affordable pizza tasting.
2. Homeslice
If you enjoy sharing pizza with friends, Homeslice is perfect. Their pizzas come in two sizes: by the slice or a massive 20-inch pie. The fun part is their creative toppings. Homeslice goes beyond traditional flavors, serving options like BBQ brisket with pickles or mushroom with ricotta and pumpkin seed pesto.
The restaurant’s casual vibe makes it a great place to relax and enjoy unique pizzas. Homeslice has locations in several areas, including Shoreditch and Fitzrovia. If you want to taste something bold and unexpected, this is the spot.
3. Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims is a celebration of Neapolitan-style pizza done right. Their soft, pillowy crusts and freshly sourced ingredients make every bite memorable. Topped with tangy San Marzano tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and various toppings, their pizzas are hard to resist.
The founders of Pizza Pilgrims actually traveled around Italy to learn the craft of pizza-making, and you can taste their dedication in each slice. The restaurant also offers dessert pizzas, like Nutella-stuffed crusts, which are a hit among sweet-toothed diners. With locations across London, Pizza Pilgrims is a great pick for casual pizza tastings.
4. Santa Maria Pizzeria
Santa Maria is often considered one of London’s best spots for authentic Italian pizza. Their pizzas follow traditional Neapolitan methods, with high-quality Italian ingredients and wood-fired ovens. The result? A soft, slightly charred crust and perfectly balanced flavors.
Try their “Santa Maria” pizza, which features tomato, mozzarella, anchovies, olives, garlic, and oregano. It’s a simple yet stunning dish that truly lets every ingredient shine. Santa Maria has branches in Ealing and Fitzrovia, making it a must-visit spot for pizza purists.
5. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
If you’re looking for a taste of history, head to L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. This legendary pizzeria originally opened in Naples in 1870, and now serves authentic Italian pizza in London. Their philosophy is “less is more,” focusing on simple yet top-notch ingredients.
The menu is straightforward, offering only a few options like Margherita and Marinara, but these pizzas are absolute perfection. The dough is light and airy, and the fresh tomato sauce has an irresistible tang. The shop is located in Baker Street, making it a great stop for pizza lovers who want to taste the tradition of Naples.
6. Yard Sale Pizza
Yard Sale Pizza is perfect for anyone who wants bold flavors with a laid-back vibe. They started as a small pop-up but quickly became one of London’s most-loved pizza brands. Their pizzas are made with hand-stretched dough and baked to perfection in stone ovens.
One of Yard Sale’s standout options is their “Holy Pepperoni,” featuring smoked pepperoni, nduja sausage, and mozzarella. They also have fun collaborations and specials, so there’s always something new to try. With branches in areas like Hackney, Walthamstow, and Leytonstone, Yard Sale Pizza is a great spot for casual and fun pizza tastings.
7. 50 Kalo di Ciro Salvo
If you want to experience high-end pizza, visit 50 Kalo di Ciro Salvo. This restaurant is run by an award-winning pizza chef, Ciro Salvo, who uses premium ingredients and expert techniques to craft some of the best pizzas you’ll ever try.
50 Kalo specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza, with an emphasis on light and airy dough. Their toppings include buffalo mozzarella from Campania, sweet cherry tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil. Located in Trafalgar Square, this pizzeria offers a truly gourmet pizza-tasting experience.
8. Pizzeria Apollo
Pizzeria Apollo brings something unique to London’s pizza scene with its Roman-style “pizza al taglio.” These pizzas are rectangular, have a crispy base, and are served by the slice. The variety of toppings is impressive, ranging from classics to creative combinations like smoked salmon with mascarpone.
The spot also has a cool, retro vibe that adds to the fun of dining here. Located in Soho, Pizzeria Apollo is perfect for casual tastings while exploring central London.
Conclusion
London’s pizza scene is bursting with creativity and flavor. From traditional Neapolitan pies to bold and modern creations, there’s a pizza shop for every taste. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these amazing pizza spots is a must. Next time you’re in London, make sure to stop by one—or several—of these restaurants for a slice of heaven. Happy pizza tasting!
