Leaven Pizza, the Hereford-based pizzeria, has just been crowned Best Independent Pizza Restaurant in the UK at the prestigious PAPA Industry Awards.
Now in its 35th year, the PAPA Awards are the highest accolade in the pizza and Italian food industry, and Leaven’s win secures its place as the top independent pizzeria in the country.
The competition was fierce, with Leaven going up against top independents like Crust Bros from London and Dough Loco from Lincoln.
Hosted by the renowned chef Theo Randall, who also served as a judge, the event saw the best in the business gather at the Royal Lancaster Hotel in London to celebrate the UK’s finest in Italian cuisine.
Pizza Pilgrims, widely regarded as one of the best pizza companies in the UK, was also present, adding to the prestige of the event.
This victory comes hot on the heels of Leaven’s recent success at the Italian Awards in Leeds, where it claimed four accolades, including highly commended for Best Pizzeria.
Now, as the recipient of the PAPA Industry Award for Best Independent Pizza Restaurant, Leaven Pizza has reached a new pinnacle.
Rupert Davison, Chefpronour of Leaven and Director of Art Hospitality, expressed his amazement at the national recognition:
“We are absolutely blown away. To think that our small pizzeria in Hereford has taken home the title of the UK’s best is unbelievable.
“This award is a testament to our team’s hard work and passion for crafting pizza that’s full of soul and flavour.
“We’re beyond grateful to everyone who has supported us, and we’re honoured to represent the Midlands and Hereford on this national stage.”
The PAPA Industry Awards are not just any awards—they are a benchmark of quality, innovation, and dedication in the pizza and Italian food sector.
Winning this award confirms Leaven Pizza’s place at the forefront of the industry, alongside some of the UK’s most respected names.
With the endorsement of The Pizza, Pasta & Italian Food Industry Magazine, which continues to spotlight innovation and excellence, this win signals even greater things to come for Leaven Pizza.
As they celebrate this monumental achievement, the team is already looking forward to what’s next.
For more information, visit the PAPA Industry Awards website here or follow Leaven Pizza on social media for all the latest updates.
