The London pizza scene, already bursting with everything from deep-dish delights to authentic Neapolitan masterpieces, has just welcomed a major new player. Gracey's Pizza, the cult favourite previously only found in St Albans or at temporary pop-ups, has finally opened its first permanent London restaurant.
From Pop-Up to Permanent: A New Haven in the West End
Located at Arcade Tottenham Court Road on 103-105 New Oxford St, WC1A 1DB, this new outpost marks a significant milestone for owners Grace and James Newman. The couple, who founded Gracey's during the pandemic, officially opened their first storefront in 2021. Their dedication to New Haven-style pizza has earned them critical acclaim, with the Times ranking them among the UK's top pizzerias.
This move to a permanent central London location follows a successful residency at Arcade Battersea Power Station last year, solidifying the brand's presence in the capital.
What is New Haven-Style Pizza?
For those unfamiliar with the style, New Haven pizza, or 'apizza', has its roots with southern Italian immigrants in New Haven, Connecticut. It distinguishes itself through several key methods: it's typically made with bread flour and cooked in coal ovens rather than wood-fired brick ovens. The result is a famously thin-cut, crispy, and charred pie that has developed a dedicated following.
A Brand New Menu for London
While the original St Albans shop continues to serve its nine red sauce pizzas, the London location is launching with a brand new, curated menu. Pizza aficionados can choose from four exciting new options:
- The NY Cheese: A classic with tomato sauce.
- The Smokey Ron: Featuring pepperoni and aged parmesan.
- Grandma Square Pie: Topped with plum tomato sauce, shaved garlic, chilli, oregano, and basil.
- The Sweet Vera: A robust combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, fior di latte, spicy fennel sausage, sweet peppers, and shallots.
Commenting on the big leap from St Albans to the heart of the city, the Newmans expressed their excitement: ‘It’s an exciting leap from St Albans, opening a restaurant at the iconic Centre Point at Tottenham Court Road marks a truly massive milestone for us.’
With its prime West End location and a unique offering, Gracey's is set to become a new essential destination for London's pizza lovers.
