Nancy Silverton, a renowned chef and pioneer of the artisan bread movement in the US, is bringing her acclaimed Pizzeria Mozza to London. This isn’t just any restaurant opening; it’s a homecoming of sorts for Silverton, who honed her culinary skills at Le Cordon Bleu in London back in 1977.
A Culinary Legacy: From Le Cordon Bleu to London
Silverton’s journey from a Le Cordon Bleu student to a celebrated chef is an inspiring tale. She’s earned the prestigious James Beard Foundation’s Outstanding Chef Award and founded La Brea Bakery, a landmark in the artisan bread movement. Her culinary empire extends beyond bread, encompassing Pizzeria Mozza, Osteria Mozza, and Chi Spacca in Los Angeles, all testaments to her culinary expertise.
Mozza Meets the Treehouse: A Perfect Partnership
Silverton’s latest venture, Pizzeria Mozza London, has a unique twist: it’s nestled within the eco-friendly Treehouse Hotel London, a vibrant addition to Regent Street. While the hotel boasts several dining options, Pizzeria Mozza stands out with its authentic Italian fare. This isn’t the first time Silverton has partnered with a hotel. Earlier this year, she opened The Barish, a modern Italian steakhouse, at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. This experience has proven invaluable, as Silverton highlights the hotel’s instrumental role in the smooth opening of her London venture.
Navigating the Pandemic: Finding Success Amidst Uncertainty
Opening a restaurant during a pandemic is no easy feat, but Silverton found a silver lining in partnering with a hotel. She emphasizes the built-in advantages of a hotel setting, like a loyal clientele and the hotel’s expertise. Silverton expresses gratitude for the welcoming and supportive environment provided by the Treehouse Hotel/SH Group, giving her confidence in the success of her first UK/London restaurant.
A Garden of Delights: A Wild Mediterranean Escape in London
The restaurant itself is a feast for the senses, designed by London-based Ward & Gray to evoke a wild Mediterranean garden. The lush décor echoes the hotel’s natural ambiance. To further enhance the Italian experience, the design firm collaborated with Italian vendors, including Venetian glassblower Sogni di Cristallo and Milanese furniture maker Soto.
A Taste of Italy: From Classic to Adventurous
The menu features Silverton’s signature pizza dough, crafted into both traditional Margherita and Napolitana and more adventurous creations. Pizza lovers can indulge in clam and red onion or try Pizza alla Benno, Silverton’s unique take on a Hawaiian pizza featuring speck, pineapple, jalapeños, tomato, and mozzarella.
Beyond pizza, the menu offers a range of antipasti, Italian-inspired salads, and fish and meat dishes, all crafted with a focus on seasonal produce and locally sourced ingredients. Vegetarian and pescatarian options are abundant, with Meatless Mondays and Fish Fridays dedicated to these diets. Weekends bring the allure of Italian-inspired brunch dishes, including the decadent oxtail hash al forno.
Mozza on the Go: Bringing Italian Flavors to London’s Doorstep
Located near the bustling BBC Broadcasting House, Pizzeria Mozza caters to London’s busy lifestyle. The restaurant offers takeaway options, including the tantalizing possibility of enjoying “Nancy’s Fancy” gelato in half-kilo or full kilo tubs.
Global Expansion: Mozza’s Future is Bright
With the London opening, Mozza’s international expansion is in full swing. Mozza Cabo, set to open in Baja California, Mexico, promises to bring Silverton’s culinary magic to a new corner of the world. While Silverton remains tight-lipped about further international ventures, she hints at exciting possibilities, suggesting that Mozza’s journey is far from over.
Nancy Silverton’s Pizzeria Mozza London is more than just a restaurant opening; it’s a celebration of Italian cuisine, a testament to Silverton’s culinary legacy, and a fresh start for her global expansion. With its unique location, delectable menu, and commitment to quality, Mozza London promises to be a culinary destination for locals and visitors alike.
