Our Narrative
Since 1985, infusing genuine Italian pizza with enthusiasm
Neapolitan Flavors: From Our Hearth to Your Home
'OpalPlateau originated from a plain ambition: to introduce genuine Neapolitan pizza to London. Opened by the Bianchi kin in 1985, our modest pizzeria was family operated, flourishing on recipes passed down for generations.
The roots of our founder, Margherita Bianchi, lie in her Italian journey, where she immersed herself in the craft of pizza creation, getting her education from accomplished pizza masters in Naples – the home of pizza. When she came back to the UK, her mission was to recreate that same traditional Italian pizza, using age-old techniques and select ingredients.
What started as a miniature pizzeria with just a dozen seats has expanded into a cherished neighborhood fixture, though our dedication to excellence and genuineness hasn't changed at all. We still embrace the old-school wood-fire baking methods, prepare our dough daily, and look for the best ingredients available.
Today, 'OpalPlateau is still a family-run affair, with the progeny of the Bianchi household at the helm of our avid crew. Despite integrating modern twists, the core of our mission remains unchanged: serving delectable, traditional pizza that assembles communities.
Our Principles
Premium Ingredients
We're committed to acquiring only the top-tier, freshest ingredients, collaborating with regional growers and meticulous Italian suppliers to catch the essence of authentic taste.
Conventional Techniques
The craft of our pizzas relies on historical practices, from the dough that ferments for two full days to the baking process in genuine wood-fire ovens.
Community Engagement
We aim to extend beyond the identity of just a restaurant—we're a vibrant participant in our local sphere, supporting neighborhood ventures and offering a hospitable environment for everyone.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Our pledge extends to eco-sensible actions, from cutting food waste to choosing eco-friendly packaging alternatives and endorsing sustainable farming.
Encounter Our Team
Meet the devoted individuals serving our scrumptious pizzas
Margherita Bianchi
Proprietor & Chief Pizzaiolo
As a second-generation proprietor and Naples-trained chef, they’ve been refining our recipes for over a decade and a half.
Lena Vartanian
Head of Culinary Arts
Bearing a rich background in Italian cooking after a 12-year tenure in Italy, they are instrumental in developing our seasonal creations.
Giorgio Bellucci
Pizza Virtuoso
A Neapolitan native, Giorgio has an over 20-year trajectory in pizza perfection and takes charge in mentoring our pizza artisans.
Emma Santorini
Hospitality Supervisor
They take the lead in making sure guests encounter an exceptional visit and spearhead our front-of-house team with grace and expedience.
Alex Kim
Beverage Curator
Oversees our drink assortment, specializing in Italian soft drinks and the quintessential complements for pizza.
Customer Endorsements
This Neapolitan pizza is the closest to what I've savored in Italy. The crust has the right chewiness and those characteristic char spots exclusive to a wood-fired oven.
William Townsend
Admiration goes to 'OpalPlateau' for their local ingredient sourcing and green practices. The distinction is palpable in every slice. Their rotating seasonal features are always anticipated!
Lisa Kendrick
I've frequented this spot for ages, and the quality consistently impresses. The ambiance is familial, and the pizza is divine—don't pass up the chance to try the Truffle Delight pizza!
Richard Santiago
Recognition & Accolades
Foremost Pizzeria in Carlston
Local Gastronomy Honors, 2019-2023
UK's Best 50 Pizza Joints
Culinary United Reviews, 2021-2023
Seal of Genuine Neapolitan Pizza
Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, 2018
Award for Sustainable Business Efforts
Eco Business Alliance, 2022
Be Our Guest
Discover the ambrosial taste of real Italian pizza in cozy, inviting surrounds