Pizza Express: West Hampstead, 319 West End Lane

I took a quick refuelling stop between campaign visits at the weekend in the West Hampstead Pizza Express. From the outside, it is very promising, situated in an attractive former fire station building.

That former use however also contains its main flaw. Inside, it is one large, open, flat space. In other words it is noisy. Very noisy. With a touch of the Langham Place-style airport hallway feel. It could certainly do with some of the Pizza Express acoustics expertise.

It may also become the first Pizza Express to have traffic calming measures installed inside for, as a sign reveals as soon as you walk in, indoor traffic is an issue. Bicycles “can no longer be used” inside. Nor should roller skates. And woe betide any child caught running around without shoes on. (With shoes would appear to be acceptable, which as it is also noisier does somewhat baffle me.)

It is a sign to be taken seriously, for IT IS WRITTEN ALL IN CAPITALS AS OF COURSE THAT MAKES REALLY IMPORTANT INFORMATION EASIER TO READ AND DOES NOT IN ANY WAY SUGGEST AMATEURISH BUNGLING WHEN IT COMES TO TYPOGRAPHY, NO NOT AT ALL.

Nothing of note to report on the toilet front as the doors and their signage have not yet had an overhaul to match the new Pizza Express branding.

So that is 35 down, 103 (or thereabouts) to go.