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Carmela's PizzeriaAMust Try
149A Upper St, London N1 1RA
· Pizza restaurant
· 4.9/5 Google (59 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
A buzzy Islington pizzeria delivering crisp, NY-leaning pies and standout vodka-sauce creations with warm, attentive service in a compact, lively room.
Why it gets an A for overall quality
Carmela's Pizzeria exemplifies grade A standards through exceptional food quality—particularly its signature vodka pizza consistently praised as best-in-city—paired with outstanding service attentiveness that creates memorable dining moments. Strong consistency and positive momentum reinforce its standing as one of London's finest pizza destinations, though the compact space and modest portions reflect its focused, neighborhood-driven identity rather than limitations in execution.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling with a neighborhood hum, the kind of place where servers remember faces and birthdays. One diner summed it up: "The base snaps, toppings stay put, and the team treats you like a regular." It is compact and can get loud at peak, but the welcome is big and the pacing is smooth. The culinary approach leans elevated traditional with an East Coast accent: crisp, NY-leaning pies, a now-signature vodka sauce, and playful extras like hot maple and Calabrian ricotta dips. It suits pizza fans who value texture and balance over frills, and anyone curious about a creamy, tomato-vodka base done right. Families are comfortable here: multiple reviews mention happy kids and even toddlers polishing off slices. From the menu, children can stick to tomato or cheese pizza, olives, and a simple dessert. Space is tight and the vibe lively, so strollers may be awkward at peak times, but kid-friendliness is genuinely supported by the food itself.
At a Glance
- Vodka pizza is a must-order and frequently cited as best-in-city
- Thin, crispy NY-leaning crust with balanced toppings
- Friendly, attentive service with memorable individual servers
- Compact space and elevated noise during peak hours
- Portions can feel modest; menu is deliberately short
What Sets It Apart
- signature_vodka_sauce_pizza
- crust_dipping_sauces
- east_coast_style_execution
- dog_friendly_policy
What People Love
- The snap of the crust and clean undercarriage
- Creamy, balanced vodka sauce that feels special
- Playful crust dips that extend the experience
- Staff warmth that makes celebrations feel easy
- A cozy, moody room that still feels lively
Points of Concern
- Noise and tight seating at peak times may not suit those seeking a calm meal
- Some diners find pizzas on the smaller side and value borderline without sharing extras
- A few isolated reports of overdone bases or uneven bake
- Limited vegan and no gluten-free base options on the current menu
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£27-34 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- For classic lovers: Tomato Pizza (£12) plus Calabrian Ricotta Dip (£3)
- For spice-sweet fans: Pepperoni Pizza (£16) with Hot Maple (£3)
- For a light meal: House Salad (£7) and split a Vodka Pizza (£15)
- Finish with: House Tiramisu (£6)
Perfect For
- A casual date with great cocktails and crisp pies
- Pizza-focused friends night before a show
- Families with pizza-loving kids
- NY-style pizza fans seeking a quality version
Location Insights
Area: Bustling high street in Islington with independent shops, bars, and restaurants drawing locals and weekend crowds.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and busy into evenings with steady foot traffic.
Nearby: Near Highbury & Islington station, theaters, pubs, and other eateries; strong evening dining scene.
CanonburyAn upscale residential area with a sophisticated dining scene, featuring boutique restaurants, artisan cafes, and a mix of contemporary and traditional dining establishments
Upper StreetA bustling street known for its eclectic mix of independent restaurants, trendy bars, and high-end dining options, representing the quintessential London urban dining experience
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:30
Friday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:00–22:30
Sunday12:00–21:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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