Established in London in 1965, by founder Peter Boizot who was inspired by his first visit to Italy, PizzaExpress promises “a real pizza experience” true to its Italian tradition of warm hospitality and traditional pizza making. Beijing is the brand’s stepping-stone into Northern China.

With open kitchens where skilled pizzaiolo pizza chefs take centre stage, PizzaExpress Taikoo Li seats 120 with another 120 outside on a spacious outdoor terrace with tables and deckchairs creating a relaxing sanctuary amid the hustle of Sanlitun.

Local Beijing designers Plasterd8 have styled the venue with a local Beijing twist, from artwork adopting the iconic Beijing bicycle as a mascot to a traditional Chinese door God featuring the brand hero, the pizzaiolo protecting the restaurant from evil spirits.