National Pizza Awards reveals this year’s finalists

A selection of some of the UK’s finest pizzas have been revealed as finalists for the 2026 National Pizza Awards.

The mouthwatering line-up features some of the leading pizza creators in the country, bringing together a mix of independent and group operators from across the hospitality industry for one giant cook-off.

The 10th anniversary of the event sees debut appearances at the live final from outfits such as Nell’s in Manchester, Stretch from Hove, Hereford’s Leaven Pizza, Newcastle’s CIRCO and newly launched London restaurant Five Feet. 

Some of the finalists are returning to the prestigious competition for another crack at the National Pizza of the Year title, including London’s Crust Bros, Yard Sale Pizza, Pizza Pilgrims and Franco Manca. This year will also see the return of 2022 and 2024 champions Bad Boy Pizza Society. The full list of finalists can be found below.

The National Pizza Awards final takes place at London’s Big Penny Social on Tuesday 3 November.

“Wow, here we go again then,” says Tristan O’Hana, editorial director of Dine Out magazine, which hosts the event. “This year’s National Pizza Awards line-up features the perfect mix of established groups, emerging indies, previous finalists and debutants. All eyes will understandably be on the guys from Bad Boy Pizza Society, who will be looking for a historic third victory, but they are up against some serious competition this year. We can’t wait to see how it all unfolds in November. Bring it on.”

On top of a signature round, which determines the National Pizza of the Year, the event will see pizzaiolos take part in a technical challenge where they must create the ultimate pizza from a selection of sponsor ingredients, all in an effort to claim the Pizza Chef of the Year title. This year will also see the return of The Alternative Slice Award, given to the competitor who puts together the most delicious and outstanding dish from a range of free-from products. The winners are decided by three panels of expert industry judges. 

The 2026 National Pizza Awards finalists

ALFI, Dom

At the Chapel, Salsiccia

Bad Boy Pizza Society, Vodka Sausage

CIRCO, Hot Like Gigi

Crust Bros, Carbo

Due Forni, Bella & Buona

East West, The Silence of the Lambs

Five Feet, Hot Sausage

Franco Manca, Mezzaluna

Leaven Pizza, Diavolo al Sesamo

Nell's, Do You Roni, Honey?

Pizza Pilgrims, Che Cavolo

Scott's All Day, Peaches, Peaches, Peaches

Stretch, The Herd

Yard Sale Pizza, The Gaeng Pizza Gang

Zizzi, Black Gold

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