A tiny, highly praised Reading pizzeria offering fresh Neapolitan-style pizza at accessible prices, with dine-in space limited and delivery reliability more variable than the food itself.
Paesinos delivers strong food quality anchored by fresh dough and authentic Italian character, paired with genuinely warm service that keeps customers returning. A compact, informal setting suits quick visits and takeaway better than lingering meals, while occasional delivery inconsistencies and limited ambiance appeal prevent a higher grade.
PAESINOS is the kind of tiny Reading pizzeria that wins people over through the oven rather than the room. Reviews repeatedly describe a compact, welcoming stop with fresh dough, quick service, and unusually warm owner or staff interactions; one diner summed up the appeal as “no fuss, just brilliant pizza at a fair price.” Expect a handful of tables, not a grand Italian dining room. The cooking leans Neapolitan but is not doctrinaire. Margherita, pepperoni, Diavola, buffalo mozzarella, and panzerotti sit alongside more playful combinations such as tandoori chicken with feta and jalapeños. The strongest praise centers on airy dough, crisp or smoky crust edges, fresh toppings, and proper oven baking. Collection and dine-in appear more dependable than delivery, where several customers reported cold pizzas, sliding toppings, or long delays. Families are well catered for by the current menu: a £5.95 Baby Pizza and £4.95 chicken nuggets with fries and juice give children straightforward choices, while Margherita is repeatedly loved by younger diners. The tiny seating area may be awkward with a large family or stroller, but the food itself is accessible; picky eaters can stick to a small pizza, fries, or nuggets while adventurous adults explore the more unusual toppings.
Area vibe: Busy riverside commercial and retail hub with strong transport links and mixed daytime/evening activity.
Safety: Generally safe in daylight and early evening with good lighting and regular foot traffic; exercise usual urban caution late at night.
What's nearby: Close to Reading Station, Oracle shopping centre, Broad Street retail and riverside dining along the Kennet and Thames.
The appeal is warm service and fresh oven-baked pizza in a tiny, no-fuss setting.
The safest introduction is a classic pizza, but the menu also has a spicy fusion option worth considering.
Expect a tiny, casual room and a more reliable experience when you avoid delivery.