What might seem like a simple meal to pop in the oven today actually has a rich history rooted in the struggles of working-class Italians, who sought affordable, convenient meals for life on the go. Pizza’s origins can be traced back to 18th-century Naples, before crossing the Atlantic to Chicago, where it gained widespread popularity. Since then, pizza has sparked a global culinary revolution, winning the hearts of millions. However, with its widespread appeal comes a challenge: choosing the perfect slice can be daunting, especially given how polarizing pizza toppings can be. From thin crusts to stuffed edges, Brighton is more than equipped to rise to the occasion, offering something for every taste. Whether you’re a fan of traditional toppings or prefer plant-based mozzarella, the city has it covered. We’ve rounded up the best pizza spots Brighton has to offer.
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Our guide to Brighton's best pizza
Pizza 500
Pizza500 in Brighton offers an authentic taste of Italy with its traditional Italian pizzas and warm, inviting atmosphere. Using only the finest Italian ingredients, each sourdough pizza is hand-stretched and baked to perfection. The menu features classic options like the Margherita, fresh mozzarella, and basil, alongside other favourite pizzas such as Calabrese and the Quattro Stagioni. The dough is fermented for 48 hours, giving it a light, airy texture that complements the generous toppings. In addition to pizza, Pizza500 also serves Seasonal Specials, fresh salads, and indulgent desserts like artisan gelato and tiramisu. For a true Italian dining experience in Brighton, Pizza500 delivers consistently delicious food in a cosy setting.
Al Duomo
- 6-7 Pavilion Buildings, Brighton, BN1 1EE
- https://www.alduomo.co.uk
Spinning dough since 1979, this elegant eatery boasts of being the first ever wood-fired pizza oven in Brighton and spans a rather impressive five floors, definitely one of a kind if you ask us! Home to some amazing Sicilian sourdough, you will not be disappointed with their range of toppings, lovely service and attention to detail.
Purezza
- 12 St James’ Street, Kemptown, Brighton, BN2 1RE
- https://www.cincin.co.uk/restaurants/
A charming and cosy restaurant famed for its take on Italian cuisine and known for swapping out mozzarella in lieu of its plant-based counterpart, Mozzella. This completely vegan establishment looks to bring sustainability into the saucepans, using the highest quality ingredients with no compromise on the taste.
Mamma Mi
- 35 George Street, Hove, BN3 3YB
- https://mammami-hove.com
A hidden gem serving the city with its simple, delicious and affordable dishes. Sticking true to their Italian roots, it remains a priority for them to deliver authentic pizzas that transport you to relaxing on the Roman coast, and we think they’ve done just that! From décor to atmosphere, everything is beaming with Italian pride.
Pronto in Tavola
- 43 Waterloo Street, Brighton, BN3 1AY
- https://www.prontointavola.co.uk
Nestled away on the corner of a lovely neighbourhood in Brunswick Town, this family-run restaurant has been dubbed as a local treasure and is cherished by many for its inviting environment and extensive selection of homemade pizza. Perfect for an intimate weekday dinner or vibrant end-of-the-week treat.
VIP Pizza
- 19 Old Steine, Kemptown, Brighton, BN1 1EL
- https://pizzavip.co.uk
Founded from a desire to bring top-quality ingredients from their family farm in Italy to the wider community, what started as a small shop in Naples in 1845 flourished into three thriving establishments dotted around the city. Blessing East Sussex with their knowledge and passion, these guys are the real deal!
Marrocco’s
- 8 King’s Esplanade, Hove, BN3 2WA
- https://www.marroccos.co.uk
The eagle-eyed among you may notice that this is a repeat from one of our earlier articles, but we’re coming back for seconds with these guys because they’re really that good! Situated on the lovely seafront, this family-run restaurant is famed for its generous portion sizes and genuine Italian food. You don’t want to miss out.
Rustico
- 300 Ditchling Road, Brighton, BN1 6JG
- https://hellorustico.co.uk
This endearing and relaxed space lives up to its name with its simple and classic eats served in the way that the Neapolitions intended, namely without the eyewatering bill! By ensuring that all their recipes live up to their nonna’s legacy at the heart of everything do, you are guaranteed one wholesome experience.
Brighton is, without a doubt, home to some amazing options that ensure that the combination of dough, tomato sauce and mozzarella will never be boring. We implore you to have a look at some of their menus. They truly speak for the uniqueness of each place, although we recommend you maybe hold off until you’re not hungry because the descriptions are sure to send you into some kind of food-fuelled hysteria. It goes without saying that this city is extremely lucky that so many of these independent establishments decided to set up shop here. The creativity of some of these places is unparalleled, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds in their journey to capture the crowd of hungry Brightonians. Why not try out one of your local pizzerias this week? Maybe even throw in a new topping, and the meal will be one to remember!
