Small Business Success: Alley Cats Pizza Grows London Footprint

Alley Cats, the rapidly expanding New York–inspired pizza brand, is preparing to open its latest restaurant on 233 Portobello Road in Notting Hill in February 2026, bringing a fresh take on classic American-style pizza to one of London’s most historic streets. The new location represents the company’s ongoing growth in the capital’s competitive casual-dining scene and marks its fourth outlet in London.

The new pizzeria will occupy a two-floor space with distinct experiences designed to appeal to both locals and visitors. At street level, a “slice hatch” will offer walk-up service where diners can grab 18-inch individual slices on the go — a feature inspired by the quick-service culture of New York City. Upstairs, a full-service dining room will provide table seating, while a hidden outdoor terrace tucked away from the bustle of Portobello Road offers a more relaxed atmosphere.

A key attraction of the new menu will be Fat Cat Squares — Alley Cats’ interpretation of Sicilian-style square pizza — alongside the brand’s signature 14-inch thin and crispy pies. Head chef Francesco Macrì, who has shaped the menu across Alley Cats’ existing London sites, has also developed a selection of sub sandwiches such as Philly cheesesteak, as well as snacks including deep-fried carbonara bites and aubergine parmigiana.

The Portobello Road restaurant’s design is intended to reflect both the neighbourhood’s creative spirit and the relaxed, neighbourhood-friendly vibe that has become Alley Cats’ signature. The first-floor dining room will feature exposed brick and a warm, pared-back interior, while the ground-floor space will lean into Portobello’s bohemian character with Italian flooring, bespoke tie-dye awnings and psychedelic veneer finishes. These design elements were developed in collaboration with architect Nadia Sousa of Sousa Studios.

Alley Cats first entered the London market in 2023 with its Marylebone restaurant and has since opened additional sites in Chelsea and on Westbourne Grove in Notting Hill, quickly becoming one of the capital’s most talked-about purveyors of New York–style pizza. The brand has built a strong following on social media and among London food lovers for its bold flavours, generous portions and neighbourhood-centric approach.

While an exact opening date in February has yet to be confirmed, locals and visitors alike are already anticipating the launch, with Portobello Road’s blend of historic market culture and vibrant dining scene offering an ideal backdrop for Alley Cats’ newest venture.

The new restaurant will open at 233 Portobello Road, London N1 2PA, with doors set to open on 13 March 2026.

For updates and further details, visit the Alley Cats Pizza website or follow them on Instagram @alleycatspizzalondon.