L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (London, UK): Bringing Authentic Neapolitan Pizza to the Heart of London

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is a name synonymous with the best pizza in the world. The original establishment, located in Naples, Italy, has been crafting authentic Neapolitan pizza since 1870 and is regarded as a culinary institution. Known for its simple, yet perfectly executed pizzas, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele has drawn food enthusiasts, tourists, and celebrities alike for over 150 years. The London branch of this iconic pizzeria, opened in 2017, brings a piece of that legacy to the UK capital, delivering the same high standards, ingredients, and techniques that have made it a global sensation.

In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore how L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele started in London, what makes it one of the best pizzerias in the city, its journey to becoming a popular hotspot, and the story behind its expansion. We’ll also delve into the must-try pizzas, the menu prices, and what makes this pizzeria a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Naples in London.

How L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele Started: A Piece of Naples in London

The story of L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele’s arrival in London is rooted in the global appeal of Neapolitan pizza and the desire to bring an authentic experience to new audiences. After gaining international fame through its appearance in the 2010 movie Eat Pray Love—where Julia Roberts savored a Margherita pizza at the original Naples location—the demand for a slice of Da Michele’s pizza spread far beyond Italy’s borders.

Recognizing the potential to reach a wider audience, the Condurro family, who have owned and operated the original pizzeria for five generations, decided to expand internationally. The London outpost was their first venture outside of Naples, chosen due to the city’s cosmopolitan nature and the presence of a food-loving community eager to experience authentic, high-quality pizzas.

Located in the bustling Marylebone district at 199 Baker Street, the London branch of L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele opened its doors in February 2017. From the outset, the goal was to replicate the same experience that customers would have at the Naples pizzeria—right down to the dough recipe, the imported ingredients, and even the use of a traditional wood-fired oven.

Why L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is the Best: Authenticity and Simplicity at Its Core

1. Staying True to Neapolitan Pizza Traditions

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in London prides itself on staying true to the traditional Neapolitan pizza-making process, just like its counterpart in Naples. The dough is made fresh daily, using a secret family recipe that’s been handed down for generations. It’s left to rise naturally for at least 24 hours, resulting in a light, airy texture that’s essential for creating the perfect pizza base.

The pizzeria uses only the finest ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy. The San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the rich volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, are known for their sweetness and low acidity, making them the ideal base for the pizza sauce. The mozzarella is made from the milk of water buffalo in the Campania region, giving it a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth quality that’s hard to replicate.

2. A Menu Focused on Perfection

Unlike many pizzerias that offer an extensive menu, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele keeps its menu deliberately small, focusing on just a few variations of the classic Margherita and Marinara pizzas. This minimalist approach allows the pizzeria to maintain the highest level of quality, ensuring that each pizza is prepared to perfection.

The Margherita, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, fresh basil, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil, is a simple yet sublime expression of Neapolitan pizza. The Marinara, which features tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil, is a deliciously balanced pizza that lets the flavors of the dough and sauce shine through.

3. The Unique “Da Michele” Crust

One of the standout features of L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele’s pizzas is its unique crust, known for its lightness and charred, leopard-spot appearance. The dough is hand-stretched and cooked at high temperatures in a wood-fired oven, giving it a distinctive texture that’s crisp on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside.

The crust, or “cornicione”, is a crucial part of the pizza-eating experience at Da Michele. It’s not just a vehicle for the toppings; it’s a flavorful element that can be enjoyed on its own or dipped in extra-virgin olive oil for added richness.

4. A Strict Commitment to Quality Control

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in London maintains the same strict quality control standards as the Naples location. The pizzaiolos (pizza makers) undergo extensive training to ensure they can replicate the exact techniques used in Naples. Even the wood used in the oven is carefully selected to maintain a consistent temperature and impart a subtle smoky flavor to the pizzas.

5. An Ambience That Reflects the Heritage of Naples

The London pizzeria’s interior is designed to reflect the heritage and character of the original Naples location. The décor features elements that pay homage to the pizzeria’s roots, with vintage photos of Naples and the Condurro family adorning the walls. The wood-fired oven, the centerpiece of the restaurant, is visible to customers, allowing them to watch the pizzaiolos at work and see the pizzas being cooked to perfection.

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, making it an ideal place for a casual meal or a special night out. Whether you’re seated at a communal table or a cozy corner, you’ll feel a sense of connection to the long-standing tradition of Neapolitan pizza-making.

How L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele Became Popular: A Story of Global Recognition and Local Love

1. From Naples to London: A Reputation That Preceded It

Before the London branch of L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele even opened its doors, it already had a reputation as one of the world’s best pizzerias. This reputation, built over decades of serving exceptional pizzas in Naples, created a buzz in the London food scene and attracted a large crowd of eager diners.

The anticipation was palpable, and on opening day, food enthusiasts lined up around the block to get a taste of the legendary pizzas. This initial wave of excitement helped establish L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a true taste of Naples in London.

2. Celebrity Endorsements and Media Attention

The pizzeria’s popularity was further boosted by celebrity endorsements and media attention. Its inclusion in various “Best Pizza” lists, as well as features in food publications like Time Out London, Eater, and The Guardian, helped spread the word. High-profile figures in the culinary world, such as chefs and food critics, have praised L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele for its authenticity and quality, adding to its allure.

The London branch has also attracted several celebrity visitors, including Hollywood stars, musicians, and athletes. Their presence has been documented on social media, drawing even more attention to the pizzeria.

3. Social Media Sensation

In the age of social media, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele has capitalized on platforms like Instagram and Facebook to showcase its pizzas and engage with customers. Mouthwatering photos of the Margherita and Marinara pizzas, along with behind-the-scenes glimpses of the kitchen, have garnered thousands of likes and shares.

The pizzeria’s social media strategy has not only helped it reach a broader audience but has also created a sense of community among pizza lovers in London. Customers often share their own photos and experiences online, further boosting the pizzeria’s visibility and popularity.

4. Consistency and Quality That Keeps Customers Coming Back

What truly sets L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele apart is its consistency. Customers know that they can expect the same high standards every time they visit, whether it’s their first or fiftieth time at the pizzeria. This reliability has fostered a loyal customer base, with many patrons returning again and again to enjoy their favorite pizzas.

5. Expansion and the Future

Since the success of the London branch, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele has expanded to other cities around the world, including Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Barcelona. Each new location adheres to the same principles of quality and authenticity, ensuring that the Da Michele experience is consistent across the globe.

The London branch has set the standard for international expansion, proving that it’s possible to maintain the integrity of a historic brand while introducing it to new audiences.

The Best Pizzas to Try at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (London)

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele’s menu is deliberately simple, focusing on the essentials of Neapolitan pizza. Here are the must-try pizzas when you visit the London location:

1. Margherita

The Margherita is the star of the menu, featuring a base of San Marzano tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The combination of flavors is perfectly balanced, with the sweetness of the tomatoes, creaminess of the mozzarella, and fragrance of the basil coming together in harmony. It’s a quintessential Neapolitan pizza that showcases the beauty of simplicity.

2. Marinara

The Marinara is a vegan-friendly option that consists of San Marzano tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and extra-virgin olive oil. Despite its

lack of cheese, the Marinara is bursting with flavor, thanks to the boldness of the garlic and the earthiness of the oregano. It’s a great choice for those who want to appreciate the quality of the dough and sauce without any distractions.

3. Pizza Bianca

For those looking for something a little different, the Pizza Bianca is a white pizza that swaps out tomato sauce for a base of mozzarella, ricotta, and provola cheese. The result is a rich, creamy pizza with a subtle smokiness from the provola and a slight tang from the ricotta.

4. Fried Pizza

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele also offers Fried Pizza, a traditional Neapolitan specialty made by deep-frying the dough and filling it with ingredients like provola cheese, ricotta, and salami. It’s a decadent treat with a crispy exterior and a warm, gooey interior.

Pricing at L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (London)

Despite its prestigious reputation, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in London offers its pizzas at relatively affordable prices, making it accessible to a wide range of customers. Here’s a breakdown of the prices for some of the most popular menu items:

• Margherita: Approximately £10-12
• Marinara: Approximately £8-10
• Pizza Bianca: Approximately £12-14
• Fried Pizza: Approximately £9-11

In addition to pizzas, the menu includes a selection of appetizers, such as bruschetta and fried zucchini flowers, priced between £5-8. The wine list features a selection of Italian wines, with prices ranging from £6-9 per glass and £25-45 per bottle.

Conclusion: Why You Should Visit L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in London

L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in London is more than just a pizzeria—it’s a gateway to the culinary traditions of Naples. From its humble beginnings as a family-owned pizzeria in 19th-century Italy to its status as a global phenomenon, Da Michele has remained committed to delivering the highest quality pizzas to its customers.

The London branch offers an authentic experience that stays true to the values and techniques of the original Naples location. With its focus on simplicity, quality, and tradition, L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is a must-visit for anyone seeking the best pizza in London.

Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or a casual diner, you’ll find something to love at Da Michele. The combination of exceptional ingredients, time-honored techniques, and a welcoming atmosphere makes it a standout destination in London’s vibrant food scene. So, the next time you’re craving a slice of Neapolitan history, head to L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele on Baker Street and experience the magic for yourself.

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