This is a post about the best American pizza in London.
Having lived in New York during my au pair year, there are two things that I’ve missed since I moved to Europe: chicken parm pizza and American chinese food. Well, it WAS NY, which is said to have the best of both and the best bagels. London is an amazing place for foodies. There are so many different cuisines available but, sadly, neither of those. Of course there’s good Chinese food in London! Just not the NY type… When it comes to the best American pizza in London, I’ve been on a quest to find it since Mulberry Street Pizza closed down (and that wasn’t even the best, they just happened to have chicken parm pizza and it was really good).
This past year or so the Detroit pizza style seems to have taken over the city. There’s also Japes which has been around a while offering delicious Chicago pizza. However, the NY chicken parm pizza is still nowhere to be seen. That’s not to say there’s no good American pizza in town so let’s look at some of the top options:
Alley Cats – Marylebone / Chelsea
https://www.alleycatspizza.co.uk
📍 22 Paddington St, London W1U 5QY
📍 342 King’s Rd, London SW3 5UR
With locations in Marylebone and Chelsea, Alley Cats has quickly become a favorite among Londoners seeking authentic New York-style pizza. Diners appreciate the crispy crusts and generous toppings that capture the essence of a classic NYC slice. The restaurant’s ambiance, featuring checkered tablecloths and episodes of The Sopranos projected on the walls, adds to its charm. Many patrons highlight the friendly service and nostalgic feel that makes it a standout spot for American pizza in London.
Detroit Pizza – Islington / Shoreditch
https://www.detroitpizzalondon.com
📍 75 Commercial St, London E1 6BD
📍 137 Upper St, London N1 1QP (Parts & Labor Sports Bar)
With branches in Islington and Shoreditch, Detroit Pizza brings the Motor City’s signature square, deep-dish pies to London. Known for their thick, airy crusts and caramelised cheese edges, these pizzas offer a delightful crunch with every bite. Customers often praise the rich tomato sauce and the variety of toppings available. The casual and welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to enjoy an indulging meal with friends. Also showing NCAA and NFL games at their Islington sports bar!
Japes – Soho/Camden/Greenwich
https://www.japes.uk
📍 22-25 Dean St, London W1D 3RY
📍 25 The Parkway, London NW1 7PG
📍 15 Nelson Rd, London SE10 9JB
📍 23 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1LE (Cotswolds)
Located in Soho, Camden and Greenwich, Japes specialises in Chicago-style deep-dish pizzas. These indulgent pies boast a buttery crust filled to the brim with cheese, sauce and a variety of toppings. Diners frequently commend the balance of flavours and the quality of the ingredients used. The cosy setting and attentive staff contribute to a dining experience that transports patrons straight to the Windy City.
Ria – Notting Hill
📍 29 All Saints Road, London W11 1HE
Another spot for Detroit pizza but in West London rather than East/North. Known for its thick, crispy-edged, rectangular crust and perfectly caramelised cheese. Detroit pizzas are baked in deep pans, resulting in a light yet satisfyingly crunchy base. Ria serves up this Midwestern classic with bold toppings and a rich, flavourful sauce layered on top. Guests often highlight the fresh ingredients and the perfectly baked crusts. The stylish interior and vibrant neighbourhood setting make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
Mother Kelly’s – Vauxhall / Bethnal Green / Tottenham / Stratford
📍 76 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TP
📍 251 Paradise Row, London E2 9BU
📍 Unit 1, Rosa Luxemburg Apartments, 16 Ashley Rd, London N17 9ST
📍 27-30 Victory Parade, London E20 1FS
Heavily inspired by New York tap rooms, Mother Kelly’s is renowned for its American-style pizzas and extensive craft beer selection. The pizzas are celebrated for their flavourful sauces and generous portions. The lively atmosphere, combined with regular events and a rotating beer list ensures there’s always something new to enjoy. A favourite among the Reddit “best American pizza” threads!
Grasso – Soho
📍 81 Dean St, London W1D 3SW
Grasso in Soho offers a modern take on general Italian-American classics. Their menu includes a variety of inventive toppings and flavour combinations that delight the taste buds. When it comes to the pizzas, patrons often praise the light and airy dough, which provides a perfect base for the rich and diverse toppings. The chic decor and central location make it a must-visit spot for pizza enthusiasts. My question for Grasso is: you’ve got chicken parm on the menu, you’ve got pizzas…why aren’t you combining the two and making the ultimate Italian-American classic chicken parm pizza?!
Each of these spots brings a unique slice of American pizza culture to London, ensuring that fans of the genre have plenty of delicious options to choose from. Now, the question is, which one takes your crown as the best American pizza in London? Let me know in the comments!
