PIZZA is undeniably one of the most popular dishes to have ever originated from Italy. 

It is beloved around the globe - not least in the UK, which celebrates the brilliance of the circular grub every year during National Pizza Week.

The annual event, which is organised by the Pizza, Pasta & Italian Association and ends today, showcases the quality and innovation of the country's pizzerias.

With that in mind, we decided to take a look at some of the best restaurants dedicated to servicing delicious slices of pizza in Colchester, the surrounding area, and across the county. 

 Miseria e Nobiltà

This charming restaurant can be found in Queen Street, Colchester, and it serves gorgeous pizzas and pastas, with a strong emphasis on quality.

It has been rated 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor.

One of the reviewers said: “We have eaten here several times and once again the food was excellent, we each chose a different dish and were well satisfied.

“The food is authentically cucina italiana and perfectly prepared with the very best, fresh ingredients.”

Opening times: Tuesday to Thursday 12pm until 10pm, Friday and Saturday 12pm until 10:30pm, and Sunday 12pm until 4pm.

Lucca

Echo: Restaurant - A photo of Lucca in Manningtree Restaurant - A photo of Lucca in Manningtree (Image: Google Maps)

Based in Manningtree’s High Street, Lucca is an elegant eatery which dishes up wood-fired pizzas and tasty pasta dishes.

It’s received 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor and a reviewer commented saying it makes a perfect setting for a romantic evening.

They said: “Great pizza and great place for a date night.

“The fabulous pizza was most excellent to our taste buds. It has friendly staff and I’m already excited for the next trip.”

Opening times: Everyday 12pm until 9:30pm.

 Moto Pizza

This specific restaurant has proved to be so popular that following on from its Chelmsford, Baddow Road site, it expanded with the launch of a second store in Colchester’s St Nicholas Square.

Customers have the option of bottomless piazza or a roulette-style menu where every slice has a different flavour and topping.

Both locations have received an impressive five stars on TripAdvisor and one review essentially said it was worth every penny spent.

They said: “If you love good pizza from a wood-fired oven this is a must try.

“It’s brilliant and the staff were really friendly and attentive - excellent value for money.”

Opening times:  Tuesday to Saturday 12pm until 9pm and Sunday 12pm until 7pm.

The Basilica

If you find yourself more near the Southend-on-Sea area, then the Basilica is another fantastic pizzeria in Hamlet Court Road, Westcliff.

It offers traditional and modern Italian cuisine.

It has received five stars on TripAdvisor and high praise from reviewers.

One said: “The food and service was outstanding.

“Such an authentic feel to the restaurant backed up by great Italian service and food.

“We will be back.”

Opening times:  Tuesday to Saturday 4pm until 10.30pm, Sunday 12pm until 8pm.