A new chapter in London’s pizza scene will begin on January 26, 2026, when Connie’s Pizza opens its doors at 133 Queen’s Road in Peckham. Located under the railway arches of Queen’s Road Peckham station, the 53-cover restaurant takes over the former site of Smokey Kudu, which has since relocated to Marylebone.
Behind this venture is Naples native Andrea Asciuti, founder of the acclaimed 081 Pizzeria in Peckham and Shoreditch. Asciuti’s existing pizzeria ranked 43rd on the prestigious 50 Top Pizza Europe list in 2024, establishing his credentials in London’s competitive pizza landscape. He named the new restaurant after his wife Connie, drawing inspiration from their daughter Lili’s Italo-British cultural heritage.
Naples-born chef bringing award-winning pizza expertise to new venture honoring his family’s cross-cultural roots
The concept introduces what Asciuti describes as “Bri-talian” pizza, combining Italian technique with British flavors. Each pizza features a high-hydration dough made with American flour, fermented for 36-48 hours, and baked at 370°C to create a crisp, non-floppy base that distinguishes it from traditional Neapolitan styles. Asciuti emphasizes the importance of proper execution in pizza making to avoid common industry pitfalls.
The menu offers eight pizza varieties starting at £9.95, including a classic margherita with British mozzarella, nduja with British stracciatella, tomato and aubergine pie, and sautéed mushrooms with truffle and basil. The signature Vodka Sauce pizza features an innovative vodka tomato sauce base topped with aged mozzarella, fior di latte, fresh basil, Grana Padano, and olive oil.
Side dishes include deep-fried mac ‘n’ cheese, mozzarella sticks, and meatballs, while the sole dessert option is Fiocco di neve, a mini brioche with ricotta and whipped cream. This unique dessert offering provides a sweet finale that stands apart from typical tiramisu or gelato found at other pizzerias.
The restaurant features an art deco aesthetic and emphasizes the use of Italian tomatoes alongside UK-produced mozzarella and stracciatella. Seasonal British ingredients like leeks, aubergines, chicken, and mushrooms feature prominently throughout the menu.
To celebrate its opening, Connie’s Pizza will offer diners 25% off their bill until the end of February 2026. Reservations are already being accepted, and interested customers can find more information on Instagram at @connies_pizza.
