A POPULAR pizzeria has re-opened its doors after a makeover and as a pizza lover, I couldn’t wait to visit again.

Pizza Express’ Colchester restaurant closed briefly in July for a refurbishment.

It’s no secret that pizza is one of my favourite foods, so the freshly refreshed restaurant in St Runwald Street was the natural choice for an impromptu mid-week catch-up with a friend.

We were greeted by the friendly staff who were able to find a table for us straight away despite it being a fairly busy night.

Gazette: Welcoming - it was great to dine among comfortable surroundingsWelcoming - it was great to dine among comfortable surroundings (Image: Newsquest)

The service remained quick and efficient throughout the evening, and the food was delightful too.

I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve eaten at Pizza Express over the years but I’m a creature of habit and generally always order the same thing, but this time around I strayed away from my usual choice of pizza and opted for a new addition to the menu – the BBQ burnt ends pizza.

It was delicious and my friend assures me his pizza topped with goat’s cheese, caramelised onions, and spinach was equally delicious too. In fact, he’s mentioned it on several occasions since the meal – so I think a return trip is on the cards.

Gazette: Tasty - Pizza Express' Padana pizza, topped with goat's cheese, caramelised onion, and spinachTasty - Pizza Express' Padana pizza, topped with goat's cheese, caramelised onion, and spinach (Image: Newsquest)

So how does Pizza Express in Colchester compare to the competition?

I previously wrote that Moto Pizza, which is just around the corner in High Street, serves Colchester’s best slice of pizza.

And I stand by that. But Pizza Express offers a totally different experience compared to Moto Pizza’s bottomless served-by-the-slice offering.

They’ve done a smashing job with the refurbishment too. It was great to enjoy a meal in a cozy and welcoming environment.

Gazette: Restaurant - Colchester's Pizza ExpressRestaurant - Colchester's Pizza Express (Image: Newsquest)

The big downside, however, is the price. Two pizzas and two drinks set us back more than £40 which, in my opinion, doesn't represent exceptional value for money.

The good service, tasty, central location, and warm atmosphere make it easy to recommend the newly refurbished Pizza Express Colchester, and I’m looking forward to returning - albeit as a pricey treat.