A renowned London pizzeria, Napoli on the Road, owned by acclaimed chef Michele Pascarella, has recently clinched the prestigious title of Europe’s No.1 Pizzeria for the third consecutive year. This esteemed recognition was bestowed upon them by the highly respected 50 Top Pizza guide, a globally recognized authority in the realm of pizzerias.
Michele Pascarella, who also secured the title of Best Pizza Maker in the World 2023, continues to impress with their signature creation, the Ricordi d’Infanzia pizza, which was crowned as the Best Pizza in the World 2025.
While Naples is traditionally synonymous with exceptional pizza, Pascarella has brought his culinary mastery to the heart of London, offering patrons a taste of the finest Italian pizza without the need to travel far.
Napoli on the Road, which has once again claimed the top spot this season, beckoned me to its Soho location for a firsthand experience. The restaurant’s menu, reminiscent of a classic Italian eatery, may appear modest in size, but the flavors it offers are anything but ordinary.
In addition to traditional pizza choices, Napoli on the Road’s ‘Pizza NoTR’ specials showcase their most innovative and celebrated creations. From the classic Margherita to the renowned Ricordi d’Infanzia, featuring slow-cooked beef ragu, Parmigiano fondue, basil, and more, the menu promises a culinary journey like no other.
Among their special offerings is the Cheesewick, boasting a blend of buffalo ricotta, flor di latte cheese, Parmigiano crisps, and Blue Stilton, among other delectable ingredients. With options for white base and vegan pizzas, priced from £13.90 to £19, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Much like its Chiswick and Richmond counterparts, Napoli on the Road’s Soho branch exudes an industrial charm with its minimalist interior design. The cozy ambiance, complete with wooden furnishings and subdued lighting, invites diners to savor their meal in a relaxed setting, with the added convenience of a downstairs seating area for those seeking a quieter dining experience.
The pizzas, characterized by their thin yet sturdy crusts, are ideal for indulging in the delightful toppings. While the Ricordi d’Infanzia stands out with its unique blend of flavors reminiscent of a traditional Italian dish, the rich ragu and generous Parmigiano cheese topping make it a hearty and satisfying choice.
Drawing inspiration from his childhood memories, Michele Pascarella infuses each pizza with a touch of nostalgia and tradition. The family’s Sunday ritual of preparing Neapolitan ragù, a process that began in the early hours of the morning, has now evolved into a culinary masterpiece that pays homage to his roots.
Though the pizzas boast exceptional flavors, some diners may find the thin base a bit challenging to manage, leading to a messy yet enjoyable dining experience. For those with a sweet tooth, traditional Italian desserts like Tiramisu and Ricotta sponge cake are among the delectable options available to round off the meal.
In the realm of pizzerias, Baldoria in Madrid, led by Ciro Cristiano, secured second place in the Top 50 list, retaining its title as the Best Pizzeria in Spain for 2026. IMperfetto in Puteaux, France, owned by Tonino Cogliano and Simone Lombardi, claimed the third spot, showcasing the diverse talent in the European pizza scene.
Additionally, London’s 50 Kalò by Ciro Salvo secured a commendable fourth place, further solidifying the city’s position as a hub for exceptional pizza experiences. Among the countries featured in the guide, England ranked third, with 22 pizzerias listed, illustrating the thriving pizza culture in the region.
