We get it – Veganuary might not be for everybody. PizzaExpress gets it too, which is why it has injected the essence of the initiative into its environment rather than its entire menu. They call it ‘Plant-based Pop’, and it’s a version of Veganuary we fully endorse.
The curated playlist will feature only vegan artists including the likes of Billie Eilish, Ariana Grande, and Anderson Paak, and will be taking over the speakers in every UK pizzeria for the rest of the month. It’s no secret that PizzaExpress has a rich musical heritage, its first outlet on Dean Street doubling up as a live jazz club since 1969, so there will be a vibey mix of soul, funk, R&B, pop and of course, jazz.
January’s episode of ‘Behind the Base’ will be vegan-focussed too. The series sees UK music talent talk about the power music has had on their lives while recreating their favourite pizza from the menu. This edition, released on 24th January, will spotlight rising star Asha Gold (featured on BBC Radio 1, BBC 1Xtra, KISS FM, we could go on). The 19-year-old from West London is known for blending silky pop melodies with contemporary R&B production.
In other news, vegan lovers will be thrilled to hear that the iconically delicious garlic butter from PizzaExpress is now available in a plant-based version. It’s available only at the all-vegan Aldwych pizzeria for now, but will be rolled out nationwide in over 360 branches from March as the perfect accompaniment for classic Dough Balls, or as a condiment for essential crust dipping.
And if you haven’t visited the Aldwych branch yet, there are some brilliant exclusives being served up – we’re loving the American Jack (smoky jackfruit 'pepperoni', tomato, vegan mozzarella) and the Vegan Ad Astra (Quorn, sweet red peppers, Cajun spice, red onion, tomato, garlic oil and vegan mozzarella) this month!
We think PizzaExpress has embraced Veganuary in a manner both wholesome and brilliantly balanced. From the Plant-based pop playlists and vegan-focussed ‘Behind the Base’ edition, to the creative, sought-after menu enhancements, there is a lot going on at PizzaExpress this month that is well worth a drop in.
And remember - there's no such thing as too much garlic butter. You heard it here first.
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