Sixty years ago, a star was born. On March 27, 1965, the first ever Pizza Express threw open its doors at 29 Wardour Street in Soho, becoming London’s first place dedicated to solely serving full-sized pizzas and revolutionising the UK’s casual dining scene.
Now, the chain started by Peterborough entrepreneur Peter Boizot has more than 300 restaurants throughout the UK and 100 branches worldwide. And its humble dough balls are one of the most beloved dishes on British high streets.
Those six decades of success are certainly something worth celebrating. So, for its 60th anniversary, Pizza Express is throwing it back to 1965 and selling its pizzas at their original old-school prices. The chain follows in the footsteps of St John, which celebrated its 30th birthday last year by travelling back in time to serve its 1994 menu at 1994 prices. Here’s everything you need to know about getting your hands on pizzas for less than a pound.
Which pizzas are included in the promotion?
The retro birthday deal means a margherita pizza will cost just 33p, the La Reine (ham, mushroom and olives) will be 49p, the American is gonna be 45p and the spicy, pepperoni packed American Hot will be just 50p. Customers will be able to upgrade to a Romana base for an extra £1.95.
For a longer period of time, there will also be a ‘1965 Icons’ set menu offering two courses for £19.65. Dishes not included in that offer are the leggera, large classic, Duo Romana, piccolo, large classic duo and calzone pizzas and Al Forno and salad dishes.
When is the promotion?
You’ve got to be quick about it. The dirt cheap prices will only be available between 5-6pm on Thursday, March 27.
The £19.65 set menu is running from March 3-28.
Which Pizza Express locations are taking part?
The deal is available nationally with all UK locations taking part.
These are London’s best restaurants for pizza.
ICYMI: England’s 62 worst foods have been named and shamed
Plus: The 11 best cities in the UK for food in 2025, according to Time Out.
Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out UK newsletter for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.