The story
What started as a lockdown pop-up at Peckham Levels in 2021 has grown into one of London's most talked-about pizza destinations. Founded by Naples-born pizzaiolo Andrea Asciuti, 081 Pizzeria brings the soul of his hometown to a corner of south-east London that suits it perfectly — unpretentious, creative, and full of character.
The name, the attitude, and the food all point back to Naples. Asciuti's Neapolitan pizza is made the way it should be: 72-hour naturally fermented dough, San Marzano DOP tomato sauce, and the traditional Neapolitan "slap" technique. Each pizza is cooked at 450°C for just 90 seconds, producing the fluffy, slightly chewy crust that defines the style. Alongside the classics, the kitchen leans into playful, unconventional creations and Napoli-inspired tapas that you won't find just anywhere — a deliberate choice to keep things interesting without abandoning the craft.
081 describes pizza as "a spiritual mindset," and the room reflects that conviction. A DJ booth sits alongside the oven, because the team believes good pizza deserves good music. The atmosphere is communal and energetic — outdoor seating on Peckham Rye, space for private parties, and a crowd that ranges from neighbourhood regulars to visitors who've made the trip specifically for the pizza.
That reputation is well-founded. Gambero Rosso, the authoritative Italian food guide, awarded 081 Pizzeria two slices in its 2025 edition — recognition that carries real weight for a Neapolitan pizza operation outside Italy, and confirmation that what Asciuti is doing on Peckham Rye is the genuine article.
The menu centres on Neapolitan pizza in both traditional and inventive forms, supported by seasonal ingredients and bold toppings. Desserts round out the offering. The Peckham location on 66 Peckham Rye is the original; a second site has since opened in Shoreditch, but Peckham remains where the story began.
Recognition
Ambience