The Experience
PizzaExpress at London Gatwick is a proper sit-down break from terminal crowds—table service, steady pacing, and a menu you can order without overthinking. It’s the kind of place you pick when you want something hot and familiar (and you’d rather not gamble on a rushed sandwich) before boarding.
The vibe is classic PizzaExpress: casual, family-friendly, and built for sharing. Travellers love it because it’s predictably good—thin, crisp-based pizzas that arrive fast enough for an airport schedule, plus pasta and salads if not everyone wants pizza. If you’re flying with a group, it’s also one of the easier places to settle in, spread out, and actually have a conversation before the gate scrum.
Location & Access
You’ll find PizzaExpress in Gatwick’s South Terminal, after security, among the main departure-side dining cluster. It’s a handy choice once you’ve cleared checks and want to stop before committing to the long walk to your gate.
- Terminal: South Terminal
- Security: Post-security (airside)
- Seating & waits: Seating is geared to groups and families; waits tend to spike around peak morning departures and early evening waves. Budget extra time if you’re travelling Fri/Sun.
Menu Highlights
- Classic pizzas: Go for a crowd-pleaser like a pepperoni-style option or a veggie-forward pizza with roasted vegetables—thin base, well-browned edges, good “airport comfort food.”
- Dough balls: The best pre-flight share plate—warm, salty, and ideal if one person is “not that hungry” until they are.
- Pasta & salads: Useful if you want something lighter than pizza; salads are a solid reset after an early start.
Price point: Expect mid-range airport pricing (generally $$), with pizzas and mains typically landing in the “treat meal” bracket rather than fast-food cheap.
- Vegetarian: Plenty of options across pizzas, sides, and salads.
- Vegan: Usually available via specific pizzas/salads—ask what’s currently offered airside.
- Gluten-free: PizzaExpress is known for offering gluten-free bases; confirm availability on the day.
- Halal: Not guaranteed—check with staff if this is essential.
Practical Info
- Mobile ordering: Not always consistent in airport branches—plan to order at the table.
- Reservations: Walk-ins are the norm; if you’re travelling in a big group, arriving slightly earlier is the safest “booking.”
- Best times to avoid crowds: Aim for mid-morning or mid-afternoon between departure banks. If you see a queue, it often eases quickly once the first wave is seated.
- Power outlets: Some tables may be near sockets, but don’t rely on it—charge up elsewhere if your phone is critical for boarding passes.
Quick Verdict
- Best for: Families, groups, and anyone who wants a reliable, unrushed hot meal after security.
- Skip if: You’re cutting it close to boarding, want the absolute fastest grab-and-go, or need guaranteed halal-specific options without asking.
Location
South Terminal