Italian-inspired chain PizzaExpress has opened its first outlet in Beijing.

The outlet in the heart of Sanlitun at Taikoo Li is the chain’s 500th restaurant worldwide.

Established in London in 1965, by founder Peter Boizot who was inspired by his first visit to Italy, PizzaExpress promises “a real pizza experience” true to its Italian tradition of warm hospitality and traditional pizza making.

Beijing is the brand’s stepping-stone into Northern China.

With open kitchens where pizza chefs take centre stage, PizzaExpress Taikoo Li seats 120 with another 120 outside on an outdoor terrace with tables and deck-chairs.

Designers Plasterd8 have styled the venue with a local Beijing twist, from artwork adopting the iconic Beijing bicycle as a mascot to a traditional Chinese door God featuring pizzaiolos protecting the restaurant from evil spirits.

The menu also includes signature pastas, desserts and soft dough balls, as well as one localised pizza – the Peking Duck Romana.

PizzaExpress is currently looking for new restaurant sites and hoping to open a second restaurant soon in the Chinese capital.