Looking for a taste of Italy without leaving London? Say hello to Luppolo, a neighbourhood spot in Wanstead that’s all about good vibes and even better pizza. By day, Luppolo is a light and breezy lunch spot, but come nightfall, the lights dim, the chatter rises and the pizzeria energy takes over. This is a place that loves its Italian roots, so expect proper ingredients, regional dishes and a drinks list that’s as East London as it gets.
Luppolo’s craft beer selection is another calling card, offering a constantly changing mix of local and international brews, on tap and in bottles. There’s always something new to try, so consider it your excuse to come back often. Gin fans aren’t left out either - the team has a soft spot for small-batch distillers, so the gin shelf is stacked with local heroes. Throw in classic cocktails done right, a wine list built to match the food, and soft drinks from indie producers, and you’ve got a bar that takes its liquids seriously.
Food-wise, the kitchen kicks off at midday. Pizzas are stone-baked, dough is made in-house (yes, gluten-free is an option), and the toppings are authentic without being boring - think tuna with anchovy, capera and red onion, or smoked pancetta with fresh chilli and mushrooms. Start with a bruschetta, dive into homemade meatballs or go big with mains that showcase the best of Italian produce, like aubergine parmigiana, meatball linguine, or slow-cooked beef ragu. Everything’s sourced with care, and it shows.
Whether you’re rounding up mates, feeding the family or just fancy a proper pizza night, Luppolo nails that sweet spot between casual and special.