Purezza

The story

Purezza London: Award-Winning Vegan Pizza in Camden

Origins and Italian roots

Purezza brings Italian-inspired vegan cooking to Camden after co-founders Stefania Evangelisti and Tim Barclay launched the concept in Brighton in 2015. Stefania grew up in an Italian family where food brought people together, eventually training as a professional chef before merging her heritage with a commitment to plant-based dining. Tim joined the vision driven by health and environmental concerns, creating a partnership focused on sustainability and inclusive menus that appeal to everyone regardless of dietary choices.

Pizzas and gluten-free options

The kitchen develops its own Freedom Dough, a gluten-free sourdough blend that produces a soft and chewy crust, allowing almost the entire menu to be served without wheat. The Parmigiana Party stands out as the National Pizza of the Year winner from 2018, while the Four Cheese and Margherita pizzas round out the selection using multi-award-winning vegan mozzarella. Chefs prepare these items in a separate area to avoid cross-contamination, ensuring safety for those with celiac disease while maintaining the integrity of the dough.

Sustainability and recognition

Purezza operates with a strict ecological mindset, sourcing organic seasonal produce from local suppliers and eliminating ingredients like palm oil that contribute to deforestation. The restaurant's innovation was highlighted during Project Plant, the UK's first farm-to-table pizzeria experiment using hydroponic urban farming, which secured the Best B2C Experience award from Campaign Magazine. This dedication to responsible dining has earned the We're Smart Green Guide two radishes, while the Camden venue hosts events like the Cheese Cellar for plant-based cheese and wine tastings in a warm setting suited for groups.