London Is Officially Home To The "Best Pizzeria In Europe"

Can Londoners ever stop thinking about pizza? Honestly, probably not. We know we can't. But today, at least, we have a very good excuse...

The best pizzeria in Europe has just been announced, and in news that will make every Londoner feel instantly smug, it is not in Naples, Rome or Florence. It is right here in London.

For the third year in a row, Napoli on the Road has been named the Best Pizzeria in Europe at the 50 Top Pizza Europa 2026 Awards, proving once again that London’s pizza scene is not just good, it is continent-conquering.

Founded by Naples-born pizzaiolo Michele Pascarella, Napoli on the Road started life in 2016 as a tiny Ape Piaggio truck serving proper Neapolitan pizza at London’s street markets.

Fast forward a few years and the brand now has restaurants in Chiswick, Richmond and Soho, a loyal fanbase, and the kind of trophy cabinet that would make most fine dining restaurants quietly weep.

This is not just pizza for a quick Friday night craving. Napoli on the Road has become one of the most exciting names in modern pizza, blending Neapolitan tradition with serious creativity, big flavour and the sort of dough that makes you briefly forget every other responsibility in your life.

Its latest win adds to an already ridiculous run of accolades. Last year, the restaurant’s Ricordi d’Infanzia pizza, topped with slow-cooked beef ragù, Parmigiano Reggiano DOP fondue, grated parmesan and basil, was named the world’s best pizza by 50 Top Pizza.

Pascarella himself has also previously been crowned World Pizza Maker of the Year and Best International Pizza Maker.

Not exactly your average margherita, then.

Announcing this year’s award, 50 Top Pizza described Napoli on the Road as “one of the most dynamic and influential realities of contemporary pizza in the world.” Which, translated into London terms, means: book the table immediately.

The win also means Napoli on the Road will head to September’s 100 Best Pizzerias in the World awards in Naples as one of the favourites to claim another global title. No pressure, then.

London had more than one reason to celebrate, too. 50 Kalò placed fourth in the European rankings, L’Antica Pizzeria came in at number 28, and newcomer Connie’s Pizza entered the list at number 48, also picking up the coveted One to Watch award.

So, while Naples may forever be the spiritual home of pizza, London is clearly having a very serious moment. For anyone still insisting the city’s food scene is all overpriced small plates and impossible bookings, we have one thing to say: order the pizza.

https://napoliontheroad.com/