In the realm of exceptional pizza establishments, the UK might not be the initial contender that springs to mind. Nevertheless, a compact yet formidable dining spot has etched its name in the culinary scene. Napoli on the Road, an eatery in London under the expert guidance of chef Michele Pascarella, has clinched the prestigious title of Europe’s No.1 Pizzeria for the third consecutive year, bestowed by the esteemed 50 Top Pizza guide, a globally renowned pizzeria accolade.
Pascarella, a recipient of the Best Pizza Maker in the World 2023 award, has also garnered acclaim for his renowned Ricordi d’Infanzia pizza, which was crowned as the Best Pizza in the World 2025. Despite the traditional association of such accolades with Naples, the birthplace of pizza, Pascarella has brought his culinary wizardry to the heart of London, eliminating the need to travel far for a taste of excellence.
Following Napoli on the Road’s recent triumph in securing the top title once more, I ventured to their Soho location, the latest addition to Pascarella’s culinary empire, to ascertain whether it truly lives up to its reputation. Resembling a classic Italian eatery, the menu may be concise, yet the flavor offerings are anything but simplistic.
While the menu includes classic pizza options, the real stars are the ‘Pizza NoTR’ specials, denoting Napoli on the Road, where the most renowned and innovative creations take center stage. To ensure a fair assessment, I sampled a classic Margherita for £13.90, a staple choice, alongside the famed Ricordi d’Infanzia – featuring a classic base adorned with slow-cooked beef ragu, Parmigiano fondue, ample grated Parmigiano, basil, and oil, priced at £19.50.
Among the exclusive menu selections was the Cheesewick at £19, a delectable offering comprising buffalo ricotta, flor di latte cheese, stracciatella cheese, Parmigiano crisps, Blue Stilton, cherry tomato jam, and oil. Additionally, patrons can explore white base and vegan alternatives, with prices ranging from £13.90 to £19.
Similar to its Chiswick and Richmond counterparts, the interior of the restaurant exudes an industrial charm with strip lighting, exposed concrete walls, and wooden furnishings. With a lower-level seating area accommodating more guests, opting for takeaway provided respite from the bustling ambiance amidst the scorching heatwave.
The pizza bases, perfectly thin with chewy crusts ideal for dipping, impressed with their ability to uphold the hefty toppings. However, it’s worth noting that indulging in these delectable pies may lead to a messy dining experience. The unconventional flavors of the Ricordi d’Infanzia, reminiscent of a fusion between lasagna and bolognese sans the pasta, offer a refreshing twist on traditional Italian cuisine.
Drawing inspiration from Michele’s childhood memories, the sumptuous ragu, simmered for hours to perfection, pays homage to familial traditions and culinary heritage. While the structural integrity of the bases may pose a challenge, the rich and meaty ragu, generously layered with parmigiano cheese, ensures a satisfying and fulfilling dining experience.
Although nothing quite compares to savoring a piping hot pizza in the heart of Italy with locally sourced ingredients, Napoli on the Road comes remarkably close to recreating that authentic Italian experience. The culinary journey that led to Michele’s innovative toppings traces back to cherished childhood memories infused with familial warmth and culinary passion.
To conclude the dining experience, traditional Italian desserts such as Tiramisu and Ricotta sponge cake are available, with antipasti offerings including bruschetta, olives, and seasonal tomatoes and mozzarella to whet the appetite. In the realm of European pizzerias, accolades were also bestowed upon Baldoria in Madrid and IMperfetto in Puteaux, France, securing second and third place respectively.
Furthermore, London’s own 50 Kalò by Ciro Salvo claimed the fourth spot, underscoring the city’s culinary prowess in the global pizza arena. England as a whole ranked third in the guide, with 22 esteemed pizzerias, trailing only behind Spain and France in representation.
