It may sound like a chick-lit plot, but owner Rosie Whaley gave up her career in fashion to set up Pi after being inspired by a stint at a Florence pizzeria during a working holiday. Her gamble paid off and Pi now boasts two sites, one in Winchester and one on buzzy Battersea Rise, which feature comfortable, creative and colourful interiors designed by Whaley herself. At both sites an open kitchen turns out generous 20-inch pizzas, made with a secret dough recipe to produce a super-light and crispy base – perfect for piling on the toppings. Made to share, each pizza can be divided into halves or thirds, so you can try two or three different toppings on each. We opted for a trio of goat’s cheese with crispy kale and caramelised red onion; Lebanese spiced ground lamb with Turkish yoghurt and the stand-out spicy wild boar salami with red chilli and piquillo peppers. Small plates include fresh bruschetta, vibrant salads, impeccably sourced hams and burrata with caramelised black fig, plus the totally addictive cauliflower and Old Winchester cheese arancini. Meanwhile, the tempting drinks offer includes Italian beers, Cornish cider and sophisticated softs alongside an Italian-leaning wine list with organic and vegan options. Original cocktails such as the refreshing Pear and Rhubarb Collins are also worth a punt – just ask the friendly staff for recommendations.