* Location: 145 High Holborn, London WC1V 6PH
* Website: Visit Website
* Price: ££ – Mid-range
* Booking: Walk-ins welcome, booking recommended for peak hours.
Bringing the Big Apple Bite to London
In a city as gastronomically diverse as London, the quest for truly authentic regional cuisine often feels like chasing a culinary unicorn. Yet, when the craving for a proper New York slice hits – that elusive combination of a thin, foldable crust, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese – few places deliver. Enter Slice Club – NY Pizza & Bar, a vibrant slice of the Big Apple tucked away in the bustling heart of High Holborn. From the moment you step through its doors, there’s a palpable promise: this isn’t just another pizza joint; it’s an homage to New York’s iconic pizza culture, complete with a lively bar scene. Our visit aimed to discover if Slice Club truly lives up to its bold claim of bringing genuine NYC flavour across the Atlantic, or if it’s merely another well-intentioned imitation.
Vibrant Vibe and Service with a Smile
The ambiance at Slice Club immediately transports you to a cool, casual Brooklyn haunt. The decor strikes a perfect balance between industrial chic and classic pizzeria charm, with exposed brick, neon signs casting a warm glow, and a selection of vintage New York memorabilia adorning the walls. The buzz is infectious, fueled by the lively chatter of diners and the clinking of glasses from the well-stocked bar. It’s the kind of place where you can comfortably settle in for a quick slice or linger over a few beers with friends, absorbing the energetic atmosphere. Service, often a make-or-break element, was remarkably efficient and genuinely friendly. Staff navigated the busy floor with ease, offering prompt recommendations and ensuring drinks were never empty, all delivered with an easygoing, approachable demeanour that perfectly complemented the restaurant’s relaxed vibe.
A Slice of Heaven: Food and Drink Highlights
The menu at Slice Club is refreshingly focused, championing the true New York-style pizza as its undisputed star. Beyond the classic pies, you’ll find a thoughtful selection of supporting acts, from quintessential starters to a few hearty mains and salads, all designed to complement the main event. Their commitment to authentic ingredients and traditional methods is evident in every bite, promising that signature foldable crust and robust flavour profile.
The Classic Margherita
Our inaugural taste test began with the Margherita, the purest litmus test of any pizzeria. Slice Club’s rendition was superb. The crust possessed that desired chewiness and slight crisp, with a beautifully charred edge that whispered of high heat. The San Marzano tomato sauce was bright and tangy, balanced perfectly by fresh mozzarella and a scattering of fragrant basil. It was a simple masterpiece, highlighting the quality of its components.
The Pepperoni King
Next, we delved into the Pepperoni King, a bold declaration on the menu that lived up to its name. Generous layers of spicy pepperoni curled into delightful little cups, crisping at the edges and pooling with savoury oil – a tell-tale sign of quality pepperoni. Beneath, the cheese was perfectly melted and golden, providing a comforting, salty counterpoint to the vibrant tomato base. Each bite delivered a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavour.
Garlic Knots with Marinara
No authentic NY pizza experience is complete without garlic knots, and Slice Club’s did not disappoint. These fluffy, golden-brown knots were drenched in garlic butter and parsley, their aroma alone enough to entice. Tear them apart, dunk them into the accompanying rich, slightly sweet marinara sauce, and you have a warm, comforting side that’s utterly addictive. They were the perfect starter to prime our palates for the pizza feast.
The drinks menu is equally well-curated, featuring a selection of craft beers, including some local London brews and classic American lagers, alongside a concise but well-executed cocktail list. Their classic Negroni provided a sharp, bitter balance to the rich flavours of the pizza, while the selection of sodas offered a nostalgic nod to American diners.
The Verdict: An Authentic New York Experience in London
Slice Club – NY Pizza & Bar successfully delivers on its promise, offering more than just pizza; it provides an immersive New York experience right here in London. From the moment you step in, the lively atmosphere, coupled with the efficient and friendly service, sets the stage for a truly enjoyable meal. While the pizza is undeniably the star, each dish we sampled showcased a commitment to quality ingredients and authentic preparation. It’s a place where the simplicity of a perfect slice meets the conviviality of a neighbourhood bar, creating an inviting space for casual dining and lively gatherings. For anyone craving that distinctive New York flavour, or simply looking for a vibrant, no-fuss spot for excellent pizza and drinks, Slice Club is an absolute must-visit. It’s the closest you’ll get to a genuine NYC slice without buying a plane ticket.
