I toured the length and breadth of this fair country in 2005 and in nearly each town, I would sit down to feast at a Pizza Express. In some ways it was a UK Pizza Express tour. It has left me as quite the Pizza Express connoisseur.
The branch in Shepherd's Bush tucked round the side of the West12 multiplex, is mysteriously a Pizza Express Studio. It is unclear what this actually means, there are some photos of jazz musicians on the wall and a big 'P.E. Studio' sign (which suggests to me netball practice and climbing ropes). Perhaps the initial idea was that they would have live music played or recorded here.
The intrigue is probably the best thing about this representative of the Pizza Express name. It is also a fairly good looking restaurant, airy and stylish.
However! (oh, yes, the dreaded 'however') the last time I came here they were understaffed and overbusy. We were in a bit of a rush so were made acutely aware of the slow-running, stressed out, scatty staff. I had aged considerably before my salad arrived. Usually I love the salad but clearly the chef got over excited with the bottle as this one was saturated in dressing and left me feeling quite sick afterwards.
Generally Pizza Express is a reliable, tasty, well made, well presented chain restaurant. Only one occasion has it fallen short for me, so I still heartily recommend it. read more