Pizza Pilgrims: A Taste of Neapolitan Tradition in Oxford, UK

Located in the vibrant city of Oxford, Pizza Pilgrims has become synonymous with authentic Neapolitan pizza, drawing locals, students, and visitors alike to its cozy and inviting space. This pizzeria, which has successfully blended tradition with innovation, is celebrated not only for its delicious offerings but also for the story behind its inception.

In this in-depth article, we’ll explore the origins of Pizza Pilgrims, the factors that make it one of the best pizzerias in Oxford, its journey to popularity, and the unique story that makes it stand out from the crowd. We’ll also delve into the best pizzas you should try here and the price range, ensuring you have a complete picture of what to expect before you visit this iconic eatery.

How Pizza Pilgrims Started: A Journey Born Out of Passion and a Love for Pizza

Pizza Pilgrims began as a labor of love in 2012, founded by brothers James and Thom Elliot. Both were working in corporate jobs in London but felt something was missing. They decided to take a bold leap, quitting their jobs and embarking on a life-changing journey across Italy to learn the art of pizza-making. This pilgrimage through the pizza capital of the world laid the foundation for what would become one of the most popular pizzerias in the UK.

The brothers documented their journey, which involved learning from experienced pizzaiolos in Naples and mastering the techniques that make Neapolitan pizza so unique. They spent six weeks traveling through Italian towns and villages, tasting pizzas, sourcing ingredients, and learning from the best in the business. This hands-on experience not only gave them the skills to create authentic pizzas but also instilled in them a deep respect for the traditions and culture surrounding pizza-making.

The Humble Beginnings

Upon returning to London, James and Thom were brimming with ideas and enthusiasm but had limited resources. Determined to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza to the UK, they started small—really small. They purchased a three-wheeled Piaggio Ape van, fitted it with a wood-fired oven, and began selling pizzas on the streets of London. Their pop-up pizza stall quickly gained attention, drawing long queues and rave reviews from customers who were eager to experience the authentic taste of Italy.

The brothers’ dedication to quality, combined with their friendly, approachable demeanor, helped Pizza Pilgrims build a loyal following. Encouraged by their success and the positive response from customers, James and Thom opened their first brick-and-mortar location in London’s Soho neighborhood in 2013. This marked the beginning of Pizza Pilgrims as a full-fledged restaurant and set the stage for its future growth.

Expansion to Oxford

After establishing a strong presence in London, Pizza Pilgrims set its sights on expanding to other cities. Oxford, with its rich history, vibrant student community, and thriving food scene, was a natural choice. In 2015, the brothers opened their first location in Oxford, bringing their signature Neapolitan pizzas to the city.

Situated in the historic Covered Market, the Oxford branch of Pizza Pilgrims has become a beloved fixture, known for its relaxed atmosphere, friendly service, and of course, mouthwatering pizzas. The restaurant’s design, featuring rustic decor and an open kitchen, creates a welcoming space where diners can watch their pizzas being made fresh before their eyes.

Why Pizza Pilgrims is the Best: A Commitment to Quality and Authenticity

1. Authentic Neapolitan Techniques

What sets Pizza Pilgrims apart from other pizzerias in the UK is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. Every pizza at Pizza Pilgrims is made according to the strict guidelines of Neapolitan pizza-making, ensuring that each bite is as close to the real thing as possible. The dough is prepared using a traditional recipe that includes only flour, water, salt, and yeast. It is then left to ferment slowly for 48 hours, resulting in a light, airy, and flavorful crust.

The pizzas are baked in a custom-built wood-fired oven at temperatures exceeding 450°C. This high heat, combined with the rapid cooking time of 60-90 seconds, gives the pizzas their characteristic soft, chewy texture with a slight char on the crust. The result is a pizza that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor.

2. Sourcing the Finest Ingredients

Pizza Pilgrims takes great pride in using only the finest ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy. The tomatoes used for the sauce are San Marzano tomatoes, grown in the volcanic soil near Mount Vesuvius, giving them a naturally sweet and tangy flavor. The mozzarella is made from the milk of water buffaloes in the Campania region, providing a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.

In addition to these core ingredients, Pizza Pilgrims is known for its use of unique toppings that elevate its pizzas beyond the ordinary. From nduja sausage and truffle oil to Calabrian chilies and Sicilian anchovies, every topping is carefully selected to complement the flavors of the base ingredients and create a well-balanced pizza.

3. A Menu That Balances Tradition and Creativity

While Pizza Pilgrims stays true to the traditional Neapolitan style, it also offers a variety of creative options that cater to different tastes and preferences. The menu features a mix of classic pizzas like the Margherita and Marinara, as well as more adventurous options such as the “Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey” and the “Truffle Mushroom” pizza.

One of the standout items is the “Carbonara” pizza, inspired by the classic Italian pasta dish. It features a white base with fior di latte mozzarella, pancetta, Pecorino cheese, and a cracked egg in the center, finished with a sprinkle of black pepper. This innovative take on pizza has become a favorite among regulars and showcases the creativity that the brothers bring to their menu.

4. Engaging with the Community

Pizza Pilgrims is more than just a restaurant—it’s a brand that actively engages with its community. From pizza-making classes and special events to collaborations with local businesses, Pizza Pilgrims has built a strong rapport with its customers. The restaurant’s social media presence is lively and interactive, featuring everything from behind-the-scenes looks at the pizza-making process to fun challenges and giveaways.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Pizza Pilgrims launched the “Frying Pan Pizza Kits”, allowing customers to recreate their favorite pizzas at home. This initiative not only kept the business afloat during difficult times but also strengthened its bond with the community by bringing the Pizza Pilgrims experience into people’s homes.

How Pizza Pilgrims Became Popular: A Recipe for Success

1. Word of Mouth and Street Credibility

The early success of Pizza Pilgrims can be attributed to the buzz generated by their street food venture. The sight of the brothers making pizzas in their Piaggio van, coupled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked dough, attracted crowds wherever they went. Positive word of mouth quickly spread, and Pizza Pilgrims gained a reputation as one of the best places to get authentic Neapolitan pizza in London.

2. Strategic Locations and Expansion

After opening their first restaurant in Soho, the brothers strategically expanded to other locations in London and beyond, including Oxford. Each new opening was met with excitement and anticipation, as Pizza Pilgrims had already established itself as a trusted name in the food scene. The choice of locations in high-traffic areas, combined with the consistency in quality and service, helped Pizza Pilgrims build a strong brand presence.

3. Media Attention and Critical Acclaim

Pizza Pilgrims’ journey from a street food stall to a successful restaurant chain caught the attention of both local and international media. The brothers’ story of following their passion and making a name for themselves resonated with many, and their pizzas were frequently featured in food blogs, magazines, and television shows. This media exposure, coupled with glowing reviews from critics and customers alike, solidified Pizza Pilgrims’ reputation as a must-visit destination for pizza lovers.

4. Innovative Marketing and Customer Engagement

The brothers have always been creative in their marketing approach, using social media and other platforms to connect with their audience. Whether it’s sharing humorous pizza memes, hosting pizza-eating contests, or launching new menu items with a bang, Pizza Pilgrims knows how to keep its customers engaged and excited.

Their cheeky sense of humor and willingness to experiment have made them a beloved brand, with customers feeling like they’re part of the Pizza Pilgrims family. This sense of community, combined with the high-quality product, has been key to their continued success.

The Story Behind Pizza Pilgrims: From a Dream to a National Brand

The story of Pizza Pilgrims is one of passion, perseverance, and a love for pizza. What started as a dream and a journey through Italy has turned into a thriving business that brings people together over a shared love of good food.

James and Thom’s decision to leave their corporate jobs and follow their passion for pizza-making has not only transformed their lives but also the lives of those who have joined them on their journey—employees, partners, and customers alike. Their commitment to authenticity, quality, and community has made Pizza Pilgrims a beloved institution, and their story serves as an inspiration to anyone who dreams of turning their passion into a reality.

Must-Try Pizzas at Pizza Pilgrims

With so many delicious options on the menu, it can be hard to choose just one. Here are some of the must-try pizzas at Pizza Pilgrims:

1. Margherita

A classic Neapolitan pizza made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, and extra-virgin olive oil

. Simple yet perfect, this pizza is a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of the pizzaiolos.

2. Carbonara

Inspired by the famous pasta dish, the Carbonara pizza features a white base topped with pancetta, Pecorino cheese, and a cracked egg. It’s rich, creamy, and absolutely delicious.

3. Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey

For those who like a bit of heat, this pizza combines the bold flavors of double pepperoni with a drizzle of spicy honey. The contrast between the savory pepperoni and the sweet, spicy honey creates a unique and unforgettable taste.

4. Truffle Mushroom

A luxurious pizza that features wild mushrooms, fior di latte mozzarella, and a generous drizzle of truffle oil. It’s earthy, aromatic, and perfect for truffle lovers.

Pricing at Pizza Pilgrims: Affordable for All

Despite its commitment to quality and the use of premium ingredients, Pizza Pilgrims maintains reasonable prices that make it accessible to a wide range of customers. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for some of the popular items on the menu:

• Margherita: £8-12
• Carbonara: £12-15
• Double Pepperoni & Spicy Honey: £12-16
• Truffle Mushroom: £14-18
• Antipasti and Salads: £5-8
• Desserts: £4-6
• Wine and Beverages: £5-8 per glass / £20-35 per bottle

Conclusion: An Oxford Institution That’s Here to Stay

Pizza Pilgrims has quickly become a favorite in Oxford’s dining scene, thanks to its commitment to authenticity, quality, and community. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Neapolitan pizza or a newcomer looking to experience it for the first time, Pizza Pilgrims offers a welcoming atmosphere, delicious food, and an experience that will leave you wanting more.

So, if you find yourself in Oxford, make sure to stop by Pizza Pilgrims. Enjoy a slice of authentic Neapolitan pizza, crafted with love and served with a smile. After all, it’s not just a meal—it’s a pilgrimage to pizza perfection.

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