Another New York-inspired pizzeria? London’s love affair with Italian-American dining is showing no signs of abating.
Next up is Carmela’s, a “bold new restaurant” on Upper Street in Islington that pays homage to New York pizza while celebrating London’s own burgeoning scene (there are so many new NYC-style pizzerias: another one upcoming is Bad Boy Pizza Society, but more on this one later).
Carmela’s is the work of Phil Chaykin, the founder of Ugly Dumpling, and Gerry del Guercio (Italian heritage) and Paul Delany (London Irish), the duo behind BiteTwice, an online video channel.
The trio said customers should expect classic NYC pizza at Carmela’s, with “crisp” but “foldable” bases and toppings made with “only the finest ingredients”.
Produce will come from artisans in London and Italy, while the menu will focus on a small number of “house pies” — cheese, tomato, white — though guests will be able to personalize their pizzas should they wish.
“The focus is simple, honest, and uncompromising,” said Chaykin, who added the name Carmela’s is a tribute to “the formidable women of Italian-American heritage — the strong, no-nonsense matriarchs who run the house and kitchen”.
Most will be immediately drawn to Carmela Soprano, though the name also honours Gerry’s nonna, also called Carmela, and Paul’s younger sister Carmel.
The interiors have been designed by Joanna Warda, who’s created a setting that is bright by day and transforms into a cosy, intimate space with a “moody glow” come evening.
The hope is that the ambience is “warm, vibrant, and unmistakable old-school Italian-American”, said the team, while the service will be heartfelt.
Beyond pizza, the menu includes a tight lineup of starters and salads — mozzarella with hot maple sauce; meatballs; eggplant (aubergine) roll with ricotta and pesto — and a drinks list of beers, wines and simple cocktails.
Chaykin, del Gercio and Delany said they hope Carmela’s becomes a cornerstone in London’s ever-evolving restaurant scene. It is expected to open by the end of the month.
149A Upper Street, Islington, carmelaspizzeria.co.uk
