Pizza Express has opened a new self-serve grab-and-go mini restaurant near Finsbury Park Station in North London, but scaled back its planned 2am weekend closing time after resident complaints about potential noise and disruption.
New Mini Unit Opens in Finsbury Park
The pizza chain launched its second 'Quick Service Restaurant' on Thursday, June 25, in a former warehouse at the corner of Wells Terrace and Fonthill Road, behind Finsbury Park Station. Customers order pizzas, salads, and doughballs from touchscreen kiosks for takeaway, with a few seats for indoor dining.
The restaurant is open from 11am to 11pm on weekdays (closing at 5pm on Tuesdays) and from 11am to midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. The opening follows a similar unit in Brixton in May, with another planned for Earl's Court.
Resident Backlash Forces Hour Reduction
Pizza Express originally applied to stay open until 2am on weekends, selling alcohol and hot food, but residents from a nearby street raised concerns about “significant late-night noise and disruption.” The franchise later reduced operating hours, stating a “commitment to being a responsible operator and a positive neighbour within the Finsbury Park community.”
Islington councillors discussed licensing conditions at a committee on Tuesday, June 23, but a final decision on the licence terms has not yet been confirmed. Pizza Express has also committed to several licensing conditions to address concerns over potential disturbance and antisocial behaviour.
Launch Event and No Alcohol Sales
The launch went ahead on June 25, offering 100 free Margherita pizzas between 6pm and 8pm for collection only. According to the chain's website, no alcohol is currently on sale at the outlet.
