Renowned London Pizza Chef Takes Over Historic Islington Pub with New Venture
In a significant development for London's culinary scene, acclaimed pizza chef Tom Budakan has launched a new pizza kitchen at The Old Queen's Head in Islington. The establishment, known as Hot Saint Pizza, officially opened its doors on Monday, February 16, 2026, marking a notable shift in the capital's pizza offerings.
From Dough Hands to Hot Saint: A Chef's Journey
Tom Budakan brings considerable expertise to this new venture, having previously worked at Dough Hands, a pizzeria that earned recognition as one of Time Out's best pizzas in the world. His move to The Old Queen's Head represents a strategic career transition that promises to elevate the pub's food offerings substantially.
"I never imagined I'd leave a job I truly loved at Dough Hands," Budakan revealed, "but the opportunity to lead the kitchen at The Old Queen's Head was simply too good to turn down. I've spent countless hours there over the years DJing, so returning in this new role feels special. I'm really excited to be back."
New York-Style Pizza Comes to North London
Hot Saint Pizza distinguishes itself by focusing on New York-style pizza, a departure from the Neapolitan pies that have dominated London's pub food scene in recent years. Budakan's approach involves meticulous attention to dough preparation and fermentation processes that set his pizzas apart.
The foundation of Hot Saint's pizza begins with a specially developed base that incorporates high-protein Canadian flour for structural integrity, complemented by a small amount of rye flour that imparts a subtle nutty flavor. This combination creates what Budakan describes as "the perfect NY-style chew" - a texture that balances elasticity with satisfying resistance.
The Science Behind the Perfect Slice
What truly sets Hot Saint's pizza apart is the fermentation process. Each batch of dough undergoes a minimum 48-hour fermentation period, a technique that develops complex flavors while ensuring the crust achieves an ideal balance: super light in texture yet perfectly crisp when baked. This extended fermentation represents a commitment to traditional pizza-making techniques adapted for contemporary tastes.
Creative Toppings and Pub Classics
Hot Saint's menu showcases both classic combinations and innovative creations that reflect Budakan's culinary vision. Notable offerings include:
- The Spicy Hawaiian: Featuring San Marzano tomato, fior di latte, guanciale and smoked ham hock, pineapple, smoked chilli and jalapeños
- The Meatball Ricotta: Combining San Marzano tomato, fior di latte, house-made meatballs, ricotta and parmesan
- The Vodka Pesto: A unique blend of vodka sauce, stracciatella, pesto and parmesan
Beyond traditional pizza offerings, The Old Queen's Head will also serve pizza sandwiches with fillings including spicy chicken parm and meatballs. For dessert, the pub offers a contemporary banana miso soft serve, continuing the establishment's trend-forward approach to pub dining.
A New Chapter for a Beloved Pub
The arrival of Hot Saint Pizza at The Old Queen's Head on Essex Road represents more than just a menu addition - it signals a transformation of the pub's culinary identity. By bringing New York-style pizza to this north London institution, Budakan aims to create a destination for pizza enthusiasts seeking authentic, carefully crafted pies in a traditional pub setting.
This development comes at a time when London's dining scene continues to evolve, with established chefs bringing their expertise to new venues and formats. The combination of Budakan's pizza-making credentials with The Old Queen's Head's established reputation creates a compelling proposition for both local residents and visitors seeking quality pizza in Islington.