Our Story
Passionately creating genuine Italian pizza since 1985
From Naples to Your Neighborhood
'SoftValleyLane was born out of a simple vision: to introduce true Neapolitan pizza to London. The Romano family established our small pizzeria in 1985 as a cozy family-managed eatery featuring recipes past down from ancestors.
Marco Romano, our founder, mastered the craft of pizza-making during her wanderings across Italy, particularly by learning from celebrated pizzaiolos in Naples, the home of pizza. Once back in the UK, she aimed to replicate the essence of Italian pizza with its traditional craftsmanship and top-notch ingredients.
Our journey began with a humble establishment consisting of only 12 seats and has since evolved into a staple of the local dining scene, without ever compromising our dedication to excellence and true Italian taste. Preserving original wood-fired oven baking, daily dough preparation from scratch, and the finest ingredient selection continues to be our tradition.
Despite our growth, 'SoftValleyLane' is still nurtured by the Romano lineage, with the second generation now driving our dedicated crew. Though open to contemporary innovation, our heart beats for one purpose: to forge sumptuous, genuine pizzas that unite people around the joy of eating.
Our Values
Quality Ingredients
Our commitment to quality leads us to select the most excellent, fresh ingredients, partnering with regional producers and demanding Italian suppliers to deliver true, rich flavors.
Traditional Methods
We are artisans of pizza, using ancient methods, allowing our dough a 48-hour fermentation period, and baking it in time-honored wood-fired ovens.
Community Focus
Our restaurant embodies more than just a place to eat; it’s an integral part of our neighborhood, propelling local initiatives and fostering an inviting environment for everyone.
Sustainability
Our pledge to the environment is unwavering, encompassing efforts to minimize food waste, the use of eco-conscious packaging, and the support of sustainable farming.
Meet Our Team
Meet the dedicated individuals creating our exquisite pizzas
Marco Romano
Owner & Head Chef
As a second-generation proprietor, this individual has honed our traditional recipes for over 15 years following her apprenticeship in Naples.
Isabella Garcia
Executive Chef
With vast culinary wisdom gained in Italy, this chef infuses 12 years of kitchen mastery into our seasonal delights.
Alex Bianchi
Master Pizzaiolo
A Naples native, Alex has devoted over two decades to the perfecting of pizzas and mentors our team of pizza chefs.
Emily Clark
Restaurant Manager
She ensures visitors enjoy a superb dining adventure and leads our customer service team with friendliness and proficiency.
Lucas Wong
Beverage Director
Leveraging a sharp palate, he assembles our drink selection, specializing in Italian lemonades and perfect non-alcoholic pairings for our pizzas.
What Our Customers Say
This is as close to Neapolitan pizza as it gets outside Italy. The crust is delectably chewy, adorned with those iconic char-flavored blisters that only come from a wood-fire oven.
Oliver Smith
I appreciate how 'SoftValleyLane' commits to using local produce and sustainable practices. The freshness is apparent with every bite, and their seasonal offerings are eagerly anticipated.
Emma Brown
I've been a patron for years and not once has the quality diminished. The crew treats everyone like kin, and the pizza is divine. Don't pass up the Truffle Mushroom pie!
Nathan Peterson
Awards & Recognition
Top Pizzeria in Karlport
Local Gastronomy Awards, 2019-2023
Leading 50 Pizzerias in the UK
National Dining Guide, 2021-2023
Genuine Neapolitan Pizza Seal of Approval
Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, 2018
Eco-Friendly Business Recognition
Regional Eco Business Consortium, 2022
Come Visit Us
Immerse yourself in the taste of genuine Italian pizza within an inviting ambiance