Forget the stereotype of bland casino food; we’ve found London’s casino resorts are secretly serving some of the city’s most impressive pizzas. Far from the tired buffets of old, these vibrant venues now house authentic pizzerias where the dough is fermented for days, the ovens roar at scorching temperatures, and the toppings champion both Italian tradition and British produce. For the pizza enthusiast seeking a slice of excitement, this guide delves into the heart of London’s casino dining scene to reveal where you can find a truly memorable pie.
The Rise of Gourmet Casino Dining in London
The landscape of casino dining in the UK capital has undergone a delicious transformation. Gone are the days when food was merely a fuel stop between games. Today, leading establishments have invested heavily in becoming genuine culinary destinations, with a particular focus on elevating Italian cuisine to centre stage.
From Buffet to Boutique
The evolution is clear: casinos like The Hippodrome and Aspers have shifted from offering anonymous, all-you-can-eat spreads to curating bespoke dining experiences. This means dedicated restaurant spaces, renowned chefs, and menus that stand on their own merit. The goal is to attract discerning food lovers as much as gaming enthusiasts, creating a sophisticated social hub where a great meal is part of the main event.
The Italian Food Revolution in UK Casinos
At the forefront of this culinary shift is a dedicated embrace of Italian food, with pizza as its shining star. Recognising the universal appeal of a perfect pie, these casinos have installed state-of-the-art wood-fired ovens, sourced ’00’ flour and San Marzano tomatoes directly from Italy, and in some cases, even brought in master pizzaioli. This commitment to authenticity ensures the pizza served is worthy of a standalone restaurant, yet it comes with the unique buzz and energy only a casino floor can provide.
The Hippodrome Casino’s Secret Slice: The Pizza Bar
Tucked within the legendary walls of The Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square, The Pizza Bar is a revelation. This spot proves that a casino pizza can be a work of art, prioritising craft and quality in every aspect of its offering.
Sourdough & Showmanship
The foundation of their success is a slow-fermented sourdough base, yielding a crust that is simultaneously crisp, chewy, and full of complex flavour. The toppings showcase a brilliant blend of Italian know-how and British sourcing. You might find premium Sussex charcuterie or locally grown greens gracing your pizza, cooked to perfection in a blazing hot oven that’s the centrepiece of the open kitchen. It’s a masterclass in simplicity and quality.
A Slice of History
Dining here is about more than just food; it’s about atmosphere. The Hippodrome Casino is a historic landmark, and the energy of its past performances seems to linger. Enjoying a meticulously crafted sourdough pizza amidst the grandeur and buzz of this Leicester Square icon adds a layer of theatre you simply won’t find in a standard high-street chain.
Aspers Casino Westfield: A Pizza Haven in Stratford
As the UK’s largest casino, located within the sprawling Westfield Stratford City, Aspers Casino understands the need for varied, high-quality dining. It has become a veritable haven for pizza lovers, offering casual yet serious pizzerias ideal for refuelling during a night out.
Casual Dining, Serious Pizza
The Italian dining options here cater to a dynamic crowd. The pizzerias within Aspers focus on delivering consistently excellent, stone-baked pizzas in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re planning a pre-gaming feast or winding down after some play, these spots offer the perfect casual-yet-satisfying solution. Menus typically feature a solid range of classics, from a flawless Margherita to more inventive specials, all designed for sharing and socialising.
Perfect Pies for a Night Out
The strategic location within one of London’s busiest retail and entertainment complexes means these pizza spots are geared for convenience and flavour. You can pop in for a quick, high-quality meal without compromising on taste. Specific highlights often include:
- Generously topped pepperoni with a perfect curl.
- Rich and creamy quattro formaggi blends.
- Fresh, vibrant vegetarian options with pesto and roasted vegetables.
It’s this combination of location, atmosphere, and honest, well-made pizza that makes Aspers a key stop on any casino pizza tour.
Pizza and Play at The Empire Casino
Nestled in the heart of the Leicester Square entertainment district, The Empire Casino offers a slice of la dolce vita alongside its gaming tables. Its Italian restaurant provides a refined escape, serving wood-fired classics that appeal to a broad clientele.
Wood-Fired Classics
True to form, a wood-fired oven is the star here, imparting that signature smoky char and leopard-spotted crust to the pizzas. The menu respects tradition, focusing on getting the fundamentals right. Expect a thin, crisp base topped with vibrant tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil on a classic Margherita. The quality caters to those celebrating a big win as readily as it satisfies a group of friends seeking a great meal in a central location.
A Central Location for Pizza Lovers
The Empire Casino’s prime position makes it an incredibly convenient and attractive option. Whether you’re catching a show, exploring the West End, or simply in the area, you can count on finding a reliably excellent pizza within its doors. It exemplifies how modern casinos have integrated top-tier casual dining into the fabric of London’s nightlife, offering a compelling reason to visit beyond the gaming floor.
What Makes a Great Casino Pizza? Our Criteria
At My Slice Fest, we judge a casino pizza by a higher standard. It must compete with London’s best pizzerias while thriving in its unique environment. Here’s what we look for.
The Dough is Key
Everything starts with the base. We prize a dough that has been given time—often 48-72 hours of fermentation—to develop flavour and texture. Whether it’s a tangy sourdough or a delicate Neapolitan-style base, the proof is in the crust. The oven is non-negotiable: a proper wood-fired oven delivering intense, even heat is a standard feature we expect in these top-tier casino restaurants.
Atmosphere & Authenticity
The magic of a casino pizza lies in the fusion of culinary authenticity with electric atmosphere. The restaurant must feel like a destination in its own right, yet seamlessly blend the excitement of the casino floor. The best spots use high-quality ingredients, from imported Italian staples to excellent British-sourced additions like Sussex charcuterie, and wrap it all in an experience that is both sophisticated and thrilling.
Planning Your Casino Pizza Tour in London
Ready to explore? A little planning will ensure your casino pizza adventure is smooth and enjoyable. Here’s the essential information you need.
What You Need to Know Before You Go
While the dining areas are often accessible without entering the gaming floor, casinos have strict policies. Always carry valid, government-issued photo ID (like a passport or driving licence) as you will be asked to prove you are over 18. Dress codes are generally smart-casual—avoid sportswear or scruffy attire. It’s highly advisable to book a table at the restaurant in advance, especially on weekends.
Pairing Pizza with Responsible Play
The beauty of this dining trend is that you can enjoy a world-class pizza without placing a single bet. View the casino as a multifaceted entertainment venue. Enjoy your meal, soak in the unique atmosphere, and if you choose to explore the other facilities, do so responsibly. Set strict limits for yourself on time and money spent on gaming, and remember that the culinary experience is a winning bet in itself.
London’s casino resorts have firmly established themselves as unexpected but essential destinations for any pizza enthusiast. By combining serious culinary craft with unparalleled atmosphere, venues like The Hippodrome, Aspers, and The Empire offer a slice of excitement that goes far beyond the plate. It’s time to rediscover these iconic locations, one unforgettable pizza at a time.
