No, this is not Pizza Express - this is Pizza Express Studio. Welcome to the snazziest addition to the Pizza Express chain, tucked away on a curious side street off Shepherd’s Bush Green.

The Venue
The central theme of this particular Pizza Express is inspired by its close proximity to the BBC studios on Wood Lane, which begins at the other end of the Green. The Shepherd’s Bush restaurant has vibrant sixties retro colours with stark red walls and black tiled flooring, much different from the soft colours of other branches. Photographs of the BBC Radio stars of yesteryear, dominated by a young Tony Hancock, festoon one wall and a bright yet garish neon sign proclaims On Air in one corner. The kitchen is open plan so feel free to claim a table nearby for a prime view of your pizza being prepared. There’s also an outside area if you want to sample the uneasy atmosphere of media darlings chit-chatting to the thundering bass of a local’s car stereo system.

The Atmosphere
As with most of its sister restaurants across London, the Pizza Express Studio does a fine trade. The professional and attentive staff are kept on their toes yet remain affable throughout. Having the kitchen up on the same floor as the diners brings a feel of authenticity to the place and there’s a sense that you’re in safe hands. The enormous, imposing pizza oven is kept busy by the stripy-shirted and nimble chefs.

The Food
As ever, the pizzas deliver. The Romanas (pizzas cooked on a thinner base to bring out the flavour) impress while old favourites like the Il Padrino, with its gorgeous mixture of roasted Italian vegetables and torn chicken, remain consistently tasty and rewarding. The desserts are extravagant yet moderately priced which is a dangerous combination in a place like this. The baked ricotta and cream cheesecake tastes so sinful that the Devil himself might have created it in the kitchen.

The Drink
The wine list is an array of smooth and fruity offerings to compliment the pizzas perfectly, including Grillo, Firriato, Pinot Grigio Blush and Sangiovese and Trulli, priced from around £15.00 to £20.00 per bottle.

The Last Word
Pizza Express have once again provided the necessary traits of every Pizza Express in London, such as quality of service and delectable food. Yet Pizza Express Studio has a particular identity to suit the location which is commendable, satisfying and, above all, a success.

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