Bar Etna to bring award-winning American pizza and Italian-American classics to Newington Green with April opening

Bar Etna, an East Coast-style pizza bar, is opening in Newington Green this April. The new eatery is the result of a collaboration between Ed McIlroy, founder of Finsbury Park’s Four Legs, and Joe Beddia, the Philadelphia-based chef behind Pizzeria Beddia. This venture marks Four Legs’ first international partnership and represents Beddia’s first and only establishment outside the United States. The opening aims to bring together two distinct culinary perspectives, offering London diners a menu that blends American pizza traditions with a relaxed, ingredient-focused approach.

Joe Beddia’s reputation as a pizzaiolo is well established, with Pizzeria Beddia, which he opened in Philadelphia in 2013, quickly gaining acclaim for its commitment to quality and consistency. In 2015, Bon Appétit named it the Best Pizza in America, and in 2025, it was awarded a Bib Gourmand. Beddia’s approach centres on thoughtful sourcing and meticulous preparation – values he will bring to Bar Etna.

The menu will feature Beddia’s signature whole pies, with a rotating selection of seasonal specials. Alongside pizzas, diners can expect a range of Italian-American classics such as Aubergine Parmigiana, Caponata and traditional meatballs. The restaurant will remain open late, serving a concise menu that also includes soft serve desserts, house spritzes, negronis on tap and a range of low-intervention wines.

The project also involves Michael (Mike) Stampler, who is overseeing operations, design and development. Stampler, who has a background in luxury craft and design, has drawn inspiration from mid-century Milanese aesthetics for Bar Etna’s interiors. The space will incorporate original features and reclaimed materials, aiming to restore elements of the building’s heritage while allowing for abundant natural light and artistic touches.

Discussing the partnership, McIlroy said: “This feels like a natural next step for Four Legs to work with chefs beyond our immediate circle. Joe is an incredible chef and a great guy with a similar ethos to ours across The Plimsoll and Tollington’s, so the partnership felt like an opportunity we couldn’t turn down.” Beddia added: “Opening in London is a dream come true, and together with Ed and Mike they’ve helped make that happen. I’m so excited to finally open the doors and bring my cooking outside of the US for the very first time.”

Food Desk

Bar Etna is expected to open in April 2026 at 47 Newington Green, London N16 9PX. For further information and updates, visit the restaurant’s Instagram here.