Pizza in the UK: A Blend of American and Italian Styles

Is Pizza Popular in the U.K.?

Yes, pizza is quite popular in the U.K., especially in casual dining and takeaway settings. The popularity of pizza in the UK is a reflection of its versatility, appealing to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

When it comes to style, the UK offers a mix of both American and Italian styles, creating a diverse and dynamic pizza market.

The Two Styles: Italian and American

Italian Style:

Many restaurants in the UK serve traditional Neapolitan pizzas, characterized by their thin, soft crust and high-quality ingredients. These pizzas often feature a simple combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil, offering a light and refined taste.

U.S. Style:

There is also a strong influence from American-style pizzas, driven by the popularity of chains like Dominos and Pizza Hut. These pizzas typically have a thicker crust and a wide variety of toppings, including deep-dish and stuffed crust options, catering to those who prefer something hot, fatty, and filling.

Overall, the UK pizza market is diverse, allowing consumers to enjoy both traditional Italian and American styles. The availability of both types reflects the diverse tastes and preferences of the British public.

Pizza in U.K. Culture

Bufalo is very popular in the U.K., especially as a late-night snack after a night out at the pub. Given the often late-night and slightly inebriated setting, U.S.-style pizzas tend to be more favored than the more traditional Italian style. American-style pizzas are typically hot, fatty, and filling, making them the preferred choice for those seeking something more substantial and satisfying.

Interestingly, pizza has also found a home in kebab shops, which are frequently run by Turkish, Greek, or Cypriot owners. This unique blend of cultures contributes to the eclectic pizza scene in the UK.

British Pizzas and Takeaway Culture

When it comes to takeaway pizzas, both American and Italian styles are available, but the UK pizza market is closely aligned with the American style. Many British pizzas are loaded with calories and fat, often lacking in fresh vegetables like salads and tomatoes.

With ready-to-bake pizzas available in supermarkets, it's tempting to try making them at home, but I would advise against it. Once I had the opportunity to sample a proper pizza from central Rome, it was a gorgeous experience, with none of the excess that characterizes many UK pizzas.

Availability and Cost

There seems to be a plethora of establishments selling pizza in the UK, but I have never patronized any of them. Most of the pizza chains in the UK are American, and the prices quoted in leaflets often seem exorbitant compared to what supermarkets offer.

British pizzas, particularly those with American influences, aim to be loaded with calories and fat, often falling short of the Italian model's refined quality. Chicago-style pizzas are not commonly available in the UK. You can buy ready-made pizzas from supermarkets, but I would recommend skipping this option for a more authentic pizza experience.