Plimsoll team and Philly chef to open Bar Etna

Pub operator Ed McIlroy is partnering with Philadelphian Joe Beddia of Pizzeria Beddia on a new bar and pizza shop in east London.

Bar Etna will be an east coast–style pizza bar from The Plimsoll and Four Legs founder McIlroy. For Beddia, the opening in Newington Green will mark his first and only restaurant outside the United States.

At its core, Bar Etna will champion Beddia's signature style pizzas paired with McIlroy’s ingredient-led approach. Pizzas will be available whole, with rotating seasonal specials showcasing the best produce.

Alongside the headline pizza, guests can expect a menu of Italian-American favourites, including Aubergine Parmigiana, Caponata and classic Meatballs. Open until late, Bar Etna will offer a considered pizza menu with simple sides, soft serve and a selection of house spritzes, negronis on tap and a low-intervention wine selection.

“This feels like a natural next step for Four Legs to work with chefs beyond our immediate circle," says Mcllroy. "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.”

From east cost to east London

Beddia opened his original standing-room-only shop in 2013. In 2015, it was named the 'Best Pizza in America' by Bon Appétit and in 2025, it was awarded a Bib Gourmand.

Now operating in a larger space in Philadelphia’s Fishtown neighbourhood, Beddia continues to champion thoughtful sourcing and meticulous pizza craft, welcoming international diners daily.

"Opening in London is a dream come true, and together with Ed and Mike, they’ve helped make that happen," he adds. "I’m so excited to finally open the doors and bring my cooking outside of the US for the very first time."

Michael (Mike) Stampler is collaborating on the project from an operational, design and development perspective, completing the founding trio behind the venture. 

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