Few places in London capture the essence of Italy quite like Pizza Pilgrims Soho. Nestled in the heart of one of London’s busiest and most vibrant neighbourhoods, this pizzeria offers a taste of Naples right in the middle of Soho. From their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas to the rich history of how the brand began, Pizza Pilgrims has quickly become a favourite spot for pizza lovers. With a menu full of classic Italian flavours and a commitment to quality ingredients, it’s no wonder that many consider it the best pizza in London. But what is it about this particular pizzeria that makes it so special? Let’s explore the story behind Pizza Pilgrims and why it’s earned its reputation as a top dining spot.
The story behind Pizza Pilgrims: From street food to Soho success
Pizza Pilgrims was born out of passion and a love for authentic pizza. Back in 2012, brothers Thom and James Elliot took a bold leap, quitting their jobs to travel to Italy and immerse themselves in the art of pizza-making. Their journey began with a simple idea: to bring true Neapolitan-style pizza to the streets of London. After their adventures in Italy, they returned with a three-wheeled Piaggio Ape van, which they converted into a mobile pizza oven.
Their street food concept was an immediate hit, and soon they opened their first permanent location in Soho. This humble beginning laid the foundation for the success of Pizza Pilgrims, which now has several locations across London. However, it’s their Soho location that remains a fan favourite, thanks to its prime spot among some of the best Soho dining spots and its unwavering commitment to delivering top-quality, authentic Neapolitan pizza.
What makes Pizza Pilgrims in Soho so authentically Italian?
At the heart of Pizza Pilgrims’ success is its dedication to authentic Italian flavours. The brothers didn’t just learn how to make pizza—they immersed themselves in the traditions of Naples, the birthplace of pizza. This authenticity shines through in every aspect of their pizzas, from the dough, which is slow-fermented for 24 hours, to the carefully sourced ingredients like fior di latte mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes.
The secret to Pizza Pilgrims Soho’s authenticity lies in their simplicity. Instead of overwhelming the palate with too many ingredients, they focus on the essentials—quality dough, fresh toppings, and a commitment to tradition. This minimalist approach is what makes their pizzas taste like they’ve been plucked straight from a pizzeria in the heart of Naples.
The use of a traditional wood-fired oven also plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect balance of crispy crust and soft, chewy centre, a hallmark of authentic Neapolitan pizza. This dedication to preserving the time-honoured techniques of pizza-making is what sets Pizza Pilgrims apart from other pizzerias in the city.
A closer look at the best-selling pizzas at Pizza Pilgrims
Pizza Pilgrims’ menu is filled with irresistible options that cater to a wide range of tastes, but a few pizzas consistently top the list as fan favourites. The classic Margherita remains a staple, with its simple yet flavour-packed combination of tomato, fior di latte mozzarella, Parmesan, and basil, all drizzled with olive oil. This pizza is a true testament to the philosophy that less is more, showcasing the pure essence of Italian ingredients.
For those who crave a little heat, the Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey is a must-try. This pizza features two types of pepperoni, fior di latte, and a sweet yet fiery drizzle of honey and fresh chilli. The contrast between the spicy and sweet flavours makes it a memorable and addictive choice.
One of the more adventurous options on the Pizza Pilgrims menu is the Nduja pizza. Topped with spicy Calabrian sausage, this pizza packs a punch with its bold flavours. The richness of the sausage is perfectly balanced by the fresh tomato and mozzarella base.
For vegan diners, Pizza Pilgrims doesn’t disappoint. Their Vegan Margherita swaps out traditional mozzarella for a cashew-based alternative called “Notzarella,” offering the same creamy texture and flavour with a plant-based twist. The Vegan Celebration pizza, with its mix of wild broccoli, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts, is another popular choice among plant-based eaters.
Why Pizza Pilgrims’ dough is the secret to their success
While the toppings at Pizza Pilgrims are undeniably delicious, it’s the dough that truly steals the show. The dough is made using a traditional Neapolitan recipe that requires patience and precision. The key to their dough’s perfection is the 24-hour fermentation process, which allows the yeast to fully develop, resulting in a light, airy crust with a slightly chewy texture.
The brothers spent years perfecting their dough recipe, and it’s this dedication to craft that has earned them their reputation. The result is a pizza base that is both substantial and delicate, providing the perfect canvas for the high-quality toppings that Pizza Pilgrims is known for.
The dough is cooked at a high temperature in a wood-fired oven, which gives it that signature leopard spot charring around the edges. This balance of crispy and soft textures is what makes their pizzas stand out and keeps customers coming back for more.
The vibrant atmosphere of Soho’s Pizza Pilgrims explained
When you step into Pizza Pilgrims Soho, you’re not just there for the food—you’re there for the experience. The pizzeria’s lively atmosphere is a reflection of its Soho surroundings. Located in one of the most eclectic and bustling neighbourhoods of London, Pizza Pilgrims draws in a diverse crowd of locals, tourists, and pizza aficionados.
The energy inside the restaurant is palpable. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the pizzas being made, adding an element of theatre to the dining experience. The casual, laid-back vibe makes it the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a relaxed dinner, or even a casual date night. Whether you’re seated inside or enjoying your pizza al fresco, the atmosphere at Pizza Pilgrims is as much a part of the experience as the food itself.
Pizza Pilgrims: A menu that brings Naples to the heart of Soho
The Pizza Pilgrims menu is a celebration of Naples, with each pizza offering a taste of the city’s rich culinary history. From the classic Margherita to the innovative spicy honey-drizzled creations, every pizza on the menu reflects the brothers’ deep appreciation for traditional Neapolitan pizza-making.
In addition to pizzas, the menu also includes a selection of delicious sides, like garlic bread, mac and cheese balls, and burrata Caprese salad, all made with the same attention to detail and quality ingredients as their pizzas.
How Pizza Pilgrims in Soho became a local favourite
Since its opening, Pizza Pilgrims Soho has quickly become one of the most popular spots in London for authentic pizza. The combination of traditional Neapolitan recipes, high-quality ingredients, and the energetic Soho atmosphere has made it a go-to destination for both locals and visitors alike. But what exactly has contributed to its lasting appeal?
One key factor is the consistent quality of their pizzas. Whether you’re ordering a classic Margherita or a more adventurous option like the Nduja pizza, you can always expect the same high standard of preparation and flavour. The dedication to authenticity, paired with a modern twist on traditional favourites, has resonated with the Soho crowd, who appreciate both the quality and creativity that Pizza Pilgrims Soho delivers.
Another reason for its success is the sense of community that the pizzeria fosters. The open kitchen, the friendly staff, and the communal dining spaces all contribute to a relaxed and welcoming environment where guests can enjoy their meals without any pretence. It’s a place where friends, families, and even solo diners can feel at home, making it a perfect spot for casual dining.
The brothers’ story—starting from humble beginnings with a three-wheeled van and growing into a Soho institution—has also played a role in their local popularity. Londoners love a success story, and Pizza Pilgrims embodies the idea that with passion and hard work, you can create something truly special. The authenticity of their journey resonates with the locals, who have adopted Pizza Pilgrims as one of their favourite Soho dining spots.
Pizza Pilgrims’ commitment to sustainability and local sourcing
In addition to their passion for great pizza, Pizza Pilgrims is also dedicated to sustainability and ethical sourcing. They take great care to ensure that their ingredients are sourced responsibly, focusing on both local and Italian suppliers who share their commitment to quality and sustainability. For example, their tomatoes come directly from the region around Mount Vesuvius in Italy, while their mozzarella is sourced from local British dairy farms.
This focus on sustainability extends to their operations as well. Pizza Pilgrims has implemented initiatives to reduce waste, including composting food scraps and offering takeaway boxes made from recycled materials. They also encourage customers to order only what they can finish, as part of their effort to reduce food waste.
This dedication to responsible business practices has earned Pizza Pilgrims a loyal following among environmentally conscious diners who appreciate knowing that their meal was made with sustainability in mind. It also adds an extra layer of appeal to the Pizza Pilgrims menu, where customers can enjoy their meal knowing that it was created with care for both the environment and the people involved in the production process.
A focus on customer experience and innovation
One of the things that sets Pizza Pilgrims Soho apart from other pizzerias is its commitment to constantly improving the customer experience. From the moment you walk in, it’s clear that Pizza Pilgrims places a high priority on customer satisfaction. The staff are always friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to offer recommendations from the menu, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular.
In addition to great service, Pizza Pilgrims is always looking for new ways to innovate. Their playful approach to pizza is evident in some of their more creative menu offerings, such as the Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey pizza. This willingness to push the boundaries of traditional pizza-making while still staying true to their Neapolitan roots is one of the reasons they’ve remained so successful.
They’ve also embraced digital innovation, offering easy online ordering through their website, as well as partnerships with food delivery platforms, making it simple for customers to enjoy their favourite authentic Neapolitan pizza from the comfort of their own homes. By blending tradition with modern convenience, Pizza Pilgrims Soho has created an experience that appeals to a wide range of customers, from those seeking a casual night out to busy professionals in need of a quick and delicious meal.
Conclusion
Pizza Pilgrims Soho has earned its place as one of the top pizza spots in London by offering a perfect blend of authenticity, innovation, and community spirit. From their humble beginnings in a pizza van to becoming a Soho staple, they have stayed true to their Neapolitan roots while embracing modern trends. Whether you’re drawn to the traditional Margherita or tempted by the more daring Nduja pizza, Pizza Pilgrims Soho delivers consistently high-quality, flavourful dishes that capture the essence of Naples in every bite. With a commitment to sustainability, top-notch customer service, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no wonder this pizzeria has become a favourite among both locals and visitors. So, if you’re looking for the best pizza in London, Pizza Pilgrims Soho should be at the top of your list.
FAQs
- 1. Does Pizza Pilgrims Soho offer vegan pizza options?
- Yes, they offer several delicious vegan pizza options for plant-based diners.
- 2. Is there a gluten-free pizza option at Pizza Pilgrims Soho?
- Yes, they offer gluten-free dough in all their pizzerias. However, if you are coeliac, they are unable to serve you due to the risk of cross-contamination, as all pizzas are cooked in the same oven.
- 3. Can I order Pizza Pilgrims Soho for takeaway or delivery?
- Yes, they offer both takeaway and delivery through their website and delivery partners.
- 4. What is the most popular pizza at Pizza Pilgrims Soho?
- The Margherita and Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey pizzas are fan favourites.
- 5. Does Pizza Pilgrims Soho use sustainable ingredients?
- Yes, they are committed to using responsibly sourced, sustainable ingredients.
