As a self-proclaimed pizza aficionado, I’ve spent years sampling slices from every corner of the globe. From the classic New York slice to the deep-dish wonders of Chicago, I thought I had seen—and tasted—it all. But then, on one of my hidden culinary explorations through London, I stumbled upon Panzerotto Blues in Tooting Market, and I realized that the Italian pizza experience is in a league of its own.
Founded by Gianni Perillo, who brought the heart of Puglia with him when he moved to London in 2014, Panzerotto Blues is more than just a pizza joint—it’s a love letter to authentic Italian street food. Gianni’s passion for his craft shines through every bite, particularly in the signature dishes that have quickly made Panzerotto Blues a local favorite.
I’ve had countless pizzas in my lifetime, but nothing quite compares to the experience of biting into their thin-crust pizza. It’s not just about the crispy, perfectly hand-stretched 12-inch stonebaked base, or the way the fresh, vibrant toppings meld together—there’s an intangible quality that sets it apart. Maybe it’s the care and attention to detail that Gianni puts into each pie, or perhaps it’s the centuries of tradition baked into every slice. Whatever it is, there’s a certain magic here that you just don’t find in your average pizza shop.
And then there’s the Panzerotto—a deep-fried folded pizza that’s as indulgent as it sounds. Originating from the humble kitchens of Puglia, the Panzerotto is a genius creation born from leftover bread dough, now transformed into a portable pizza pocket stuffed with your choice of fillings. It’s the kind of dish that makes you wonder why this hasn’t taken over the world yet. Crispy on the outside, warm and gooey on the inside, the Panzerotto is a revelation.
Gianni’s dedication to bringing the flavors of his homeland to the diverse streets of Tooting is evident in every evolving menu item, whether it’s a new twist on the traditional Panzerotto or an inventive take on classic pizza. There’s a reason why Panzerotto Blues was nominated as a ‘Favourite South London Restaurant’ in the Timeout Love Local Awards 2021—it’s not just a place to grab a bite; it’s a destination for anyone who appreciates the artistry of true Italian cuisine.
As someone who has tasted pizzas from all over, I can confidently say that when Italians make pizza, it’s a whole different experience. It’s not just about the ingredients or the technique—it’s about the love and attention that goes into every step of the process. At Panzerotto Blues, you can taste that passion in every bite, and it’s an experience you won’t want to miss.
So if you find yourself wandering through Tooting Market, do yourself a favor and stop by Panzerotto Blues. Whether you’re in the mood for a thin-crust pizza that’ll transport you to the streets of Italy or a Panzerotto that’ll change the way you think about pizza pockets forever, Gianni and his team have something special waiting for you. Trust me, this is one slice of Italy you’ll want to savor.
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