“AD” – Why is this here?

When I visited The Taproom back in 2025, it was for their breakfast, which I confidently dubbed one of the best in Cambridgeshire. It genuinely took me by surprise – you usually expect high-end breakfasts to be tucked away in some overpriced farm shop, not a casual spot by the river.

So, when I heard they were firing up a brand-new pizza menu, I knew I had to head back to St Ives. There aren’t an abundance of quality pizza options in the town, and if they could pull off a pizza as well as they did that breakfast, I knew I was in for a treat.

The kitchen has installed a Gozney Dome out the back that cooks 10-inch stone-baked sourdough pizzas. They are slightly smaller than your usual pizza pies, but that makes them a great price point and ideal for a quick pub snack. The menu is well-thought-out, too, with plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, with most pizzas hovering around the £14 mark.

Beef Ragu

The standout for me was, without a doubt, the Beef Ragu. This had such a wonderfully punchy flavour. Made from slow-braised beef shin and cheek piled onto that sourdough base, it is hearty, unpretentious, and exactly the kind of comfort food you want when you’re grabbing a pint by the river. It’s an incredible choice and easily my favourite of the bunch.

Diavola

If you like a bit of heat, the Diavola brings a lovely spicy punch. Packed with pepperoni and ‘nduja, it’s got that signature spice that lingers like a warmth on the tongue. It was a little oily, but the flavour was all there. I was particularly impressed with the quality of the ‘nduja – it had that hard slap of spicy pork flavour I always look for. The fior di latte mozzarella really stood out with this one too, adding a lovely creamy texture to the fiery base.

Mushroom & Taleggio

For the vegetarians among us, the Mushroom & Taleggio is a bold choice. The flavour hits you like a ton of bricks; that bold, creamy funk of the Taleggio combines perfectly with the earthy, roasted chestnut mushrooms. It is sophisticated, well-balanced, and proof that a veggie pizza doesn’t have to be boring.

A Great Pizza Spot!

The Taproom continues to prove that they aren’t just a casual drinking spot; they are a proper kitchen that cares about the product and the ingredients. During my visit, I could see them setting up the courtyard in the back for the World Cup. I can already picture myself eating a fresh pizza and a pint while watching England play.

I would have liked to see some larger pizza sizes, but the team has done a great job working with the space they have. If you’re in St Ives and you’re looking for a solid, no-nonsense pizza, this is well worth a visit. It is consistent, exciting, and it’s arguably one of the best spots to grab a bite in the town right now.

Thanks for reading.