Just a bus ride away from the LCC campus is Francesco’s pizza restaurant. Located in Camberwell, Francesco’s offers a wide range of pizzas, side dishes, and desserts that won’t break the bank, making it a local favourite among students and residents. Tucked on the corner of a busy street, this pizza place has a warm, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, as well as an open kitchen, which adds a welcoming touch.
Francesco’s offers unbeatable prices that are hard to find anywhere else in London. Pizzas range from just £5 to £6.99 with a wide variety of toppings and specials. I opted for a simple Margherita pizza and the quality was unbelievable considering the price, with fresh ingredients and a sourdough base. It arrived hot, having been served straight from the oven with a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese. The sides and desserts are also student-budget friendly offering arancini or mozzarella sticks, as well as fresh cannolis and tiramisu. For dessert, I tried a pistachio cannoli that had been baked fresh that morning. The cream was smooth with a flaky pastry coating, and its lightness was perfect to end the meal with.
The staff were friendly and happy to help with menu recommendations, often ensuring I was happy with my meal. The service was quick, with the pizza arriving in no more than ten minutes for both eat-in and takeaway orders, perfect for busy students looking for some quick food. Despite the low prices, Francesco’s often offers deals to make it even cheaper. If you leave a Google review, you will receive a free cannoli, and I even participated in a competition to win a free pizza while I was there.
Overall, Francesco’s is an excellent spot for students looking for a cheap but tasty meal. The menu is affordable for even the strictest of budgets and is ideal for solo lunches or a dinner with friends.
Emilia Birch
Address: 53 Camberwell Church St, London SE5 8TR