Wood-fired pizza in Folkestone: why Luben stands out

There’s more pizza in Folkestone than ever, and most of it seems to travel by delivery bike. Sitting down to one straight out of a wood-fired oven is a different thing altogether. That’s what Luben is for.

A proper pizzeria

Luben opened in 2016 at 24 Rendezvous Street, CT20 1EZ. There’s no gimmick. It’s a wood-fired oven, good Italian ingredients alongside local produce, and a cold draught beer to go with it.

It’s made for sitting in, not just for collecting a box. Bring friends, bring the family, and take your time. People often call it Luben’s pizza, and we don’t mind a bit.

If you’re down by the harbour, it’s a walk up through the old town to Rendezvous Street. Worth it, and you’ll have earned the pizza by the time you arrive.

Why the oven matters

A wood fire gets far hotter than a conveyor oven. The base puffs and chars at the edges, and the toppings cook quickly so they stay fresh. You can taste the difference straight away.

Alongside the pizza there’s garlic bread and a salad for anyone after something lighter. And there’s always that beer.

In the Creative Quarter

Luben sits in the Creative Quarter. The Cat & Fiddle is just along the street if you fancy a pint afterwards, and Panataria is a couple of doors away for a focaccia sandwich at lunchtime.

Booking

Book online, or email luben@landb-restaurants.co.uk for bigger groups and parties. Weekend evenings get busy, so it’s worth booking ahead.

There’s a Luben Christmas menu this year too, with a festive pizza, a Christmas roast and a cheese fondue made for sharing.

Making a weekend of it? Our weekend guide starts with Friday pizza at Luben, and our pubs guide has the best places for a drink nearby.

Luben is part of the L&B family, so you collect Rewards points here and spend them at The Pullman, The Harbour Inn, The Ship Inn and the rest.

Quick answers

Is Luben takeaway only?

No. It’s a sit-down restaurant first, and you can take pizza home too.

Where is Luben?

24 Rendezvous Street, Folkestone, CT20 1EZ.

Do I need to book?

For weekend evenings, yes. Quieter times are usually easier to walk in.

Is Luben part of L&B?

Yes, along with The Pullman, The Harbour Inn, The Ship Inn, The Cat & Fiddle, Panataria and The London & Paris.