Pizza Pilgrims Covent Garden
Restaurant | London | England | United Kingdom
Neapolitan pizza in London
"Pizza Pilgrims Covent Garden" in London, England, is a vibrant restaurant that brings the art of Neapolitan pizza to the heart of the British capital. Founded by brothers James and Thom Elliot, who undertook a six-month journey through Italy in 2012 to learn the secrets of perfect pizza, this establishment stands for authenticity and passion. The setting is small yet full of energy, with a design inspired by the world of theater—fitting for its location in the theater district between Covent Garden and Leicester Square. Colorful tiles, rustic wooden tables, and pizza-themed artworks create an atmosphere reminiscent of a small corner of Naples in the midst of bustling London.
Authentic Italian restaurant London
The cuisine at Pizza Pilgrims focuses on traditional Neapolitan pizzas made with a double-fermented dough, baked in a wood-fired oven at over 500 degrees Celsius. The result is a light, fluffy crust with slightly charred edges—a hallmark celebrated under the motto “In crust we trust.” The classic “Margherita” is particularly popular, featuring fresh Fior-di-Latte mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil, showcasing the simplicity of Italian cuisine. For those seeking something spicier, the “Nduja” is a highlight—a pizza topped with spicy, spreadable salami that gets a fiery kick from fresh chilies. The “Portobello Mushroom & Truffle” also offers a flavor surprise with its intense aroma and creamy texture, delighting mushroom lovers.
Pizza with fresh mozzarella
In addition to pizzas, there is a selection of sides and desserts that round out the experience. The “Garlic Bread” variant, shaped like a small pizza, is served with fresh garlic and herb oil, making it perfect for sharing. For a sweet finish, the “Nutella Pizza Ring” tempts diners—a dough ring filled with Nutella and ricotta, served warm from the oven with vanilla ice cream—a treat that deliciously blurs the lines between pizza and dessert. Most of the ingredients come from Italy, sourced from small producers that the brothers met during their journey, which underscores the quality and authenticity of the dishes.
Best pizza in Covent Garden
The restaurant also offers a variety of drinks to complement the meal, including Italian sodas like “Aranciata” and a selection of beers that pair well with the savory flavors. The service is friendly and quick, with staff often enthusiastically discussing the origins of the ingredients. The open kitchen, with its impressive pizza oven as the centerpiece, invites diners to watch the chefs at work, enhancing trust in the freshness and care of the preparation. The establishment adopts a hybrid concept: on certain days, reservations can be made, while on others, it operates on a walk-in basis, emphasizing a spontaneous, lively atmosphere—especially in the evenings when it can get quite crowded.
