San Carlo Flying Pizza, a cherished Italian restaurant in Roundhay, Leeds, has reopened its doors today following an extensive £2 million refurbishment.
This much-anticipated revamp artfully blends the restaurant’s rich local heritage with modern sophistication, ensuring it remains a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.
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A Fusion of Tradition and Modernity
Drawing inspiration from the traditional Italian villas of Lake Como, the refurbishment showcases new terrazzo floors that enhance the restaurant’s authentic Italian ambiance. The updated interiors incorporate retro elements and a completely revamped bar, all while preserving the original charm that has long defined San Carlo Flying Pizza.
The custom design, executed in-house, reflects concepts from the restaurant group’s successful Alderley Edge establishment while honoring the original features of the well-known and loved San Carlo Flying Pizza. This intricate balance of old and new creates a visually stunning environment that is both welcoming and sophisticated.
Celebrating Local Art and Heritage
One of the standout features of the refurbishment is the incorporation of bespoke artwork celebrating local artists.
This not only adds a unique aesthetic touch but also reinforces the restaurant’s connection to the local community. Additionally, a new shellfish instalment pays homage to Flying Pizza’s longstanding display, further enhancing the restaurant’s authentic Italian experience.
Dining Experiences for Every Occasion
With a seating capacity of up to 130, San Carlo Flying Pizza offers versatile dining experiences suitable for any occasion. Guests can look forward to the restaurant’s new summer menu, available across all San Carlo locations, which showcases fresh, meticulously crafted dishes that remain true to the restaurant’s Italian roots. The menu promises a culinary journey through Italy with a focus on quality and tradition.
A Family Legacy
San Carlo Flying Pizza has been a staple in the Roundhay community since 1974, holding a special place in the hearts of many, including the Distefano family. Marcello Distefano, CEO at San Carlo, recalls:
“We lived in Roundhay until I was seven years old. My family and I would eat at Flying Pizza every Sunday at the same table. The place was always buzzing with regulars who brought life and character to the restaurant. Adriano, the original owner, was a larger-than-life character who epitomized the role of an Italian restaurant owner. My father still keeps in touch with him.”
The Distefano family’s deep-rooted connection to Flying Pizza led them to acquire the restaurant when it faced closure years later.
“It was important to us to keep the name Flying Pizza because it had legendary status in Yorkshire. Now, on its 50th anniversary, we’ve undertaken a second refurbishment to breathe new life into this iconic establishment,”
adds Marcello.
Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
The refurbishment honors the restaurant’s storied past while infusing it with modern elegance. Marcello reflects on the journey:
“As a kid, I was always in awe of the supercars parked outside. It felt like a showroom at the front of the restaurant. We hope that Flying Pizza will be around for another 50 years. We might not be here, but hopefully, someone else will continue to look after the restaurant and its heritage.”
San Carlo Flying Pizza’s reopening marks a new chapter in its storied history, promising an enhanced dining experience that respects its rich past while looking forward to a vibrant future. For more information or to book a table, visit San Carlo’s website.
