Finding an Italian restaurant in central London can be a challenge with so many options to choose from but discovering one that keeps you coming back time and time again is truly something special. Pizzeria Mozza, perfectly perched across the street from the BBC and nestled just off Regent Street, is a hidden gem for true Italian comfort food. Part of the celebrated Treehouse Hotel and led by the renowned Mozza group – under the guidance of acclaimed chef Nancy Silverton, famed for her much-talked-about sourdough crust – this restaurant lives up to its stellar reputation. If you’re familiar with the iconic Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles, you’ll instantly recognise the allure of its London counterpart.
The décor at Pizzeria Mozza radiates Mediterranean alfresco charm. Imagine a serene space with touches of greenery and a calming ambiance that transports you away from the bustle of Regent Street. Tuscan-inspired flooring enhances the rustic yet refined atmosphere, creating a tranquil escape in the heart of the city.
First things first, the cocktail selection at Pizzeria Mozza is small but perfectly crafted, offering a delightful range of spritzes and classic Italian cocktails with a distinctive Mozza twist. Complementing the cocktail list is a thoughtfully curated wine list, featuring exclusively Italian wines served in charming carafes, creating the ambiance of a true Italian city break.
Mozza’s menu is refreshingly simple, emphasising quality ingredients. Ideal for sharing and grazing, it features standout antipasti, a dedicated mozzarella selection, and pizzas that truly shine. Their new Aperitivo menu, available daily from 4:30 to 7:00 PM, adds an extra touch of Italian flair to pre-dinner snacks.
To kick things off, we indulged in cauliflower fritti – crispy, golden bites with a spicy kick, complemented by a bold aioli – and classic meatballs al forno, tender and rich with flavour. Naturally, the mozzarella selection beckoned. We chose the prosciutto di Parma paired with mozzarella di bufala, alongside a basket of warm, freshly baked bread. The bread, a hallmark of Chef Nancy Silverton’s legendary expertise, was so irresistible we found ourselves savouring every bite, leaving no crumb behind.
But Mozza’s pièce de resistance is its pizza. The dough, the true litmus test of any pizzeria, is exceptional. Its crust is perfectly balanced – crispy and charred on the outside with a chewy, airy interior. The puffy rim boasted a texture so satisfying, we understood why Mozza’s pizzas are legendary. The classic salame pizza and the Pizza alla Benno, topped with speck ham, pineapple (controversial but delicious), jalapeños, and fior di latte, were both divine. For a seasonal treat, the Brussels sprouts pizza – a Christmas special was a surprising hit, with panna, red onion, and charred sprouts combining beautifully.
Portions are generous, but Mozza conveniently offers takeaway boxes for anything you can’t finish. For those leaning towards lighter fare, the salads are sublime. Nancy’s famous chopped salad is a must-try, bursting with fresh flavours and vibrant ingredients.
The mains offer something for everyone. The rib-eye, served with crispy potato fritti, was perfectly cooked, while the salmon al forno brought a delicate yet flavourful option. Pasta lovers will adore the gnocchi alla romana, paired with a rich ragu, or the radiatori al forno with vodka sauce and parmesan – a dish that feels worthy of last-meal status.
Desserts are equally memorable, with unique creations like butterscotch budino and olive oil gelato, alongside a classic sundae reimagined with a Mozza twist. For those looking to elevate their experience further, Mozza offers a pizza masterclass, an exciting opportunity for aspiring chefs. We’ve already secured our spot for January and can’t wait to perfect the art of Mozza’s legendary dough.
Mozza strikes the perfect balance between authenticity and innovation, offering a dining experience that celebrates the heart of Italian cuisine. With its exceptional food, thoughtful details, and warm hospitality, it’s a place you’ll want to return to time and again.
Pizzeria Mozza, 14-15 Langham Pl, London W1B 2QS
