As someone who takes pizza a little too seriously, I approached Como Garden’s new menu with cautious optimism. I’ve had brilliant pizza, I’ve had regrettable pizza, and I’ve had everything in between. But this new lineup promised a culinary trip through Italy – and, as it turns out, it more than delivered.
Tucked away on Kensington High Street, Como Garden is a restaurant that manages to feel both transportive and grounded. With its leafy, garden-inspired interiors and low-lit elegance, it’s designed to evoke the charm of Lake Como – and it does so without feeling forced. The team behind it, Emerald Hospitality Group, clearly understands the balance between atmosphere and substance.
Thoughtful twists on tradition
The new pizza menu is rooted in Italian tradition but isn’t afraid to stray into more luxurious territory. I started with a classic Margherita – always a reliable benchmark – and it was exactly as it should be: sweet datterini tomatoes, proper buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil, all on a base that held its own without being overly doughy or dense.
From there, things got more interesting. The Truffle Mushroom pizza is unapologetically rich, layered with white truffle cream, mushrooms, pecorino, and just the right amount of black truffle oil. It’s indulgent, yes, but well balanced – the kind of dish that feels special without being overwhelming.
Another standout was the Regina, which brings together datterino tomatoes, Agerola fior di latte, parma ham, rocket, and a generous helping of burrata. It’s fresh, full of flavour, and carefully composed. There’s also the San Daniele, a slightly more robust option with aged parma ham, wild rocket, cherry tomatoes, parmesan, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It’s one of those combinations where every ingredient earns its place.
A crust worth mentioning
One of the real strengths here is the base itself. Made using a fermented sourdough and baked in a traditional wood oven, it has the kind of texture and flavour that only comes from time and attention. Crisp at the edges, chewy in the middle – exactly what you want from a proper pizza.
It’s clear that a lot of thought has gone into sourcing ingredients, too. From the D.O.P cheeses to the high-quality cured meats, the menu reflects a commitment to authenticity without slipping into cliché.
More than just a pizzeria
Since opening in 2020, Como Garden has built a reputation for offering more than just good food – it’s about creating a dining experience that feels considered. The team behind it, twin brothers Arian and Alberto Zandi, have been making a name for themselves across London’s restaurant scene, and it’s easy to see why. This latest addition to the menu doesn’t just pad out the offering – it elevates it.
Whether you’re stopping by for a quick dinner or settling in for a longer meal, the new pizza menu at Como Garden is worth the detour. It’s refined but approachable, and a strong addition to Kensington’s Italian dining scene.
Go hungry, and don’t skip the truffle pizza. It’s not just for show – it’s genuinely excellent.
37–45 Kensington High Street, London W8 5ED
