Notting Hill, Pizza Restaurant Guide

A “local favourite” in Notting Hill for more than 30 years on account of its “always-consistent” cooking, this rustic Italian is the sort of place with something for “every member of the family”. It has spawned two offspring in the same street, Essenza and Mediterraneo – an indication of how well it suits the neighbourhood.

“Make sure you sit in the front garden” or the “nice covered terrace” to get the most out of this “lovely local”, not far from Notting Hill Gate. Despite the “fresh fish on display”, lots of regulars “only ever have pizza, which is very good indeed with lots of very fresh-tasting toppings”. “Nice gelato” too. And it’s “excellent value for the quality and area”.

“Top pizza by the boys from Napoli!” – Carmelo Meli and Emanuele Tagliarina’s “small” venues offer “great pizzas” (it’s down to the San Marzano tomatoes and EVO oil apparently) and “a good atmosphere”. The original in SW3 is the highest rated, and W11 also wins numerous favourable reports. Also now in Hampstead (since 2022) and – new in mid-2023 – Soho.