Alley Cats Marylebone

Pizza is a longstanding favourite amongst Londoners, but recent years have seen a shift away from the authentic Neapolitan-style chewiness, letting other varieties have their moment in the spotlight.  

Drawing inspiration from the Italian community of Manhattan, Alley Cats has the buzz of a great NY neighbourhood pizzeria. Queues of expectant diners wait patiently for a seat at one of the gingham-clad tables - and we completely understand why. There's excited chatter in the air, as chefs weave deftly through the – arguably too many – tables, with trays of dough over their shoulders. Meanwhile, episodes of The Sopranos are projected on the walls. There’s an undeniable charm to it all.  

The drinks are nothing to shout about. Wine comes in tumbler glasses, but no one pretends that this is the reason we’re here. We start the evening with some of the tastiest meatballs we’ve ever tried. Rich basil-infused tomato sauce smothers the meatballs that seem to melt in the mouth. This, topped off with a Parmesan hit, had us regretting our decision to share. As for the main event, we ordered a classic pepperoni, and it did not disappoint. Here, pizza crusts may be on the thinner side but they’re so incredibly crisp without so much as a hint of sogginess. The spice from the habanero compliments the smoky pepperoni with a promise of honey that comes through occasionally but feels slightly lacking. 

The current special, a Mortadella Folder filled with stracciatella, mortadella and ground pistachio, added a freshness that you don’t often associate with pizza but was a welcome addition, distracting from the fact that the filling-to-crust ratio felt a little bit off. Pistachio continued its starring moment in the tiramisu, maybe not the classic recipe but a creative twist we’d eat again and again.  

Everyone (including us) walked out with white paper parcels of leftover pizza - having ordered more than they can chew but not wanting to leave even a single bite behind.  
 
A charming little spot with classic Italian hospitality, fast service and truly excellent pizzas.  

Alley Cats is a pizza restaurant situated in the heart of Marylebone, London. It pays homage to the classic pizzerias of New York City, with this reflected in both its decor and menu, favouring the New York Style pie over the more traditional Neapolitan variety. The menu showcases a variety of 14-inch artisanal pizzas, crafted from the finest ingredients and designed to cater to all palates.

What sets Alley Cats apart is its inventive approach to pizza toppings. Guests can indulge in a range of flavours, including traditional options alongside more adventurous choices, such as vegan nduja, which offers a spicy kick, and creamy stracciatella for a touch of decadence. Every pizza is made fresh to order, ensuring that each bite is as delicious as the last.

In addition to their impressive pizza selection, Alley Cats also offers a range of fresh salads that compliment the main dishes perfectly. These salads are crafted with seasonal ingredients, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavours of the pizzas. For those with a sweet tooth, the dessert menu is not to be missed, featuring indulgent treats that round off the meal beautifully.

The restaurant’s interior is designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for casual dining with friends or a relaxed family meal. The staff are friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest feels at home from the moment they walk in. Alley Cats also provides takeaway options.
Open daily from noon until 11pm, Alley Cats is the perfect destination for both lunch and dinner. Whether you’re a local or just visiting London, this pizzeria promises a memorable experience filled with delightful flavours and a laid-back vibe.