Pizza Express has managed to keep itself relevant through some pretty tough times post-COVID. It’s not trying to be an artisanal pizzeria – but it is consistent, affordable, and even now still feels like a bit of a treat.
The Norwich branch on St Benedicts street has a welcoming vibe and it is the coolest street in the city, full of artisan bakers, coffee shops and ‘hip’ restaurants.
We visited on a Tuesday evening and the place was suprisingly busy it has a cosy feel and there were couples, work groups and a few people dining alone. We were there to try the three-course set menu (£26.95), which includes a starter, any Classic or Leggera pizza, pasta or salad, and a dessert. You can upgrade to a Romana base for £1.95 — ideal if you like your pizza thin and crisp with a bit more going on.
I started with the Meatballs Al Forno, baked in a rich tomato and garlic sauce with a little heat, served with fresh Dough Sticks. For the main, I went with a Romana pizza (2 different flavours together) – it was light and crispy and acxtually FAB!. Dessert was a Tiramisu, which was creamy and light with just the right balance, I had to take it home I was so full in the end.
My partner went for the Buttermilk Chicken Goujons to start, followed by Chicken Parmigiana, and a warm Chocolate Brownie to finish. I am never sure about mixing chicken with pasta, but she loved it and it tasted great. I only have her word for the brownie as she refused to share even a mouthfiul!
Pizza Style
To mark their 60th anniversary, Pizza Express has also teamed up with AGRO Studio — the creative minds behind Maya Jama’s Halloween looks — to launch a playful new fashion line. The Icons Collection features nine statement pieces, including a Dough Ball-inspired clutch bag and a patchwork jacket. It drops exclusively on TikTok Shop from 27th March, with some items appearing in selected restaurants throughout April. For more info click here >
Pizza Express seems to be thriving when many around it are struggling and a busy Tuesday night in Norwich is testament to their dedication to delivering really good food at a reasonable price with enough choice and variety to please even those people who aren’t big pizza lovers – strangely there are some out there!
Pizza Express, 15 St Benedict Street, Norwich NR2 4PE – +44 1603 622157