If you’re after giant delicious pizzas with waterfront views, it’s always buzzing at this cute little Italian joint.

The Venue
On the edge of the culture pocket that is Gabriel’s Wharf, an eclectic collection of boutiques, food stalls, restaurants and interactive sculptures, is this pleasant stop for nourishment along the busy South Bank. So close to the Thames that the waves are practically lapping your ankles, it’s a friendly little pizzeria built up on decking (helpful for enhancing those river views) that is always teeming with customers. The mostly dark wooden, rustic interior is a far cry from the sleek, characterless decor favoured by Pizza Express, who also own this offshoot. There’s copious seating indoors and on the sheltered balcony that wraps around the dark green facade. Terrace-style seating out the front is prime sun-catching position in the warmer months.

The Atmosphere
A great location and the ensuing constant passing trade means this eatery is generally always boisterous with a mix of tourists and local workers. Weekday lunchtimes are particularly full, and if you have a large party it’s wise to book ahead. Meals are generally quite prompt and while usually you get service with a smile, when the punters are plentiful waitstaff can be a little brisk. When evening falls, this pizzeria is warmly lit and exudes a welcoming, enticing atmosphere.

The Food
The pizzas are without doubt the best thing on the menu and there are dozens of choices, from the classic to the curious. Choose from less common toppings like fragrant Chinese duck (£9.75) and a pungent yet tasty beetroot and blue cheese or the more classic Hawaiian and four cheeses pizzas. With generous portions (one pizza is enough for two smaller appetites) and delectable thin, crispy bases, they’re great value starting from £6.35.

If pizzas aren’t your thing, the salads and are also worth a try, like the moreish warm bacon and goat’s cheese salad or a traditional Nicoise. Classic pastas, like the popular seafood linguine, start from £8.45 - an acceptable price for the decent portion sizes. The food is no-nonsense Italian and while some dishes are better than others, the traditional fare hits the spot for those with a penchant for food like Mama used to make.

The Drink
The drinks menu is dominated by Italian tipples, with the dry, fruity house red (a Montepulciano d’Abruzzo) the perfect match for the plethora of tomato based dishes, and the house white (Trebbiano), run-of-the-mill but acceptably priced at £4.65/£12.95. For beer drinkers, there is Moretti, Nastro Azzurro and Beck’s (from £3.30 a bottle). There are also a couple of roses and light Italian proseccos if you fancy a bit of bubbly.

The Last Word
The riverside location and suitability for large groups, plus the tasty food, means the Gourmet Pizza Company is a good choice for a casual night out, especially if you’re looking for a bit of a change from Pizza Express.

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