Doughnation in Covent Garden is London’s Newest Pizza Obsession

As a native New Yorker, I would be lying if pizza wasn’t one of my food groups. In fact, it s impossible to walk more than a few blocks without the mouthwatering aroma of freshly baked pies wafting through the air. The iconic thin crusts, the gooey mozzarella that forms those perfect strings when you take a bite, the vibrant tang of the tomato sauce – it’s an experience burned into my soul.

In New York, pizza isn’t just food, it’s a culture. The diversity of toppings is as vast as the city itself. From classic margherita to unconventional creations like ziti pizza or chicken ranch, there’s a slice for every mood and craving. And let’s not forget about the pepperoni cup – those little pools of spicygrease that make any carnivore squeal.

When I moved to London with my husband, I knew that pizza was going to be the one thing I was going to miss the most. Sure, there’s pizza here, but it isn’t the same: until I found Doughnation.

Nestled in Covent Garden, the restaurant’s promise of artisan-crafted pizzas on stretched dough with unique toppings piqued my interest immediately.  Though I went in with managed expectations, I was blown away by the perfect tang of the sauce, crust to cheese ratio, and overall flavours. Plus, there are other offerings on the menu from salads, to appetizers, and an extensive drinks (and alcoholic beverages) menu.

Menu featuring pizza, appetizers, drinks and salads
A snapshot of the various offerings on the Doughnation menu. Photo courtesy Steven Joyce.

As I took my first bite of the margherita, it was like being transported back to the streets of Brooklyn. The dough had that perfect chew, the toppings were layered with love, and the flavor was simply unmatched.

 

Featuring the margherita pizza with a crispy crust. Photo courtesy Steven Joyce.

But Doughnation isn’t just about recreating the New York pizza experience, it’s about elevating it. Delicacies like the truffled mushroom ragout pizza and the array of creative sides and dippers showcase the chef’s passion for culinary innovation while still paying homage to the classic art of pizza making. Not looking for just the average side like garlic bread? That’s okay, because Doughnation also has sweetcorn “ribs” bites and olives to start off your meal. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, or eat everything, there is an option for you.

A fan favourite is the truffled mushroom ragout pizza, topped with mozzarella cheese and hazelnuts. Photo courtesy Steven Joyce.

These days, you can find me at Doughnation’s piazza terrace most weekends, sipping a refreshing gin spritz and savoring each delectable slice. And the best part? A portion of the proceeds goes towards causes that are dear to the brand, making every bite that much more meaningful.

 

A portion of proceeds are donated to a charitable cause. Photo courtesy Steven Joyce.

In a city that once felt so foreign, Doughnation has become a slice of home – a place where I can indulge in my pizza obsession while basking in the vibrant atmosphere of London. It’s a beautiful fusion of two great cities, united by the universal love for good food and good company.

Pooja Shah

Pooja Shah is a freelance writer and lawyer from NYC now based in London.