The scores are in! We're thrilled to announce Alessandro Romanelli, Head Chef, as our 2026 Doughdown champion, and the first pizzaiolo in Pizza Pilgrims history to win it twice. His pizza, Che Cavolo, is now our September guest special, landing on the menu at every pizzeria nationwide.
If you don't already know, the Doughdown is our annual internal pizza competition, the moment we hand the menu over to the people who know pizza best: our chefs. Pizzaiolos from every pizzeria create a pizza inspired by themselves, before the finalists go head-to-head in a live cook-off judged on flavour, originality, execution and appearance. The winning pizza earns a spot on the menu nationwide, for one month only.
This year, Alessandro made history. His pizza, Che Cavolo, is inspired by his Italian roots and his passion for turning humble, everyday ingredients into something extraordinary.
Che Cavolo, literally "cabbage", and also a playful Italian expression along the lines of "what the heck!", puts kale front and centre, transforming an often-overlooked veg into the star of the show. Bold, comforting and unmistakably Italian, it's proof that the simplest ingredients, treated properly, can turn into something unforgettable.
Che Cavolo — £15
Cream of kale base, guanciale, fresh burrata, crushed toasted panko and a lemon & olive oil emulsion.
Feeling extra hungry? The perfect combo is 1 pizza + 2 sides — the ultimate feast.
Get it from 31st August to 27th September at all pizzerias or via Deliveroo, and Click & Collect.
Buon appetito.
