The story
Jonny and Charlotte Heyes launched Nell’s Pizza in Manchester during 2020 with a clear mission to serve authentic New York style pizza outside the United States. Jonny spent eighteen months travelling through Brooklyn, studying slice shops and refining a dough recipe that would eventually take thirty-six hours to ferment. The family business now operates five venues across the city, treating every pie as a hands-on passion project rather than a commercial experiment.
Every pizza here follows a strict set of baking rules designed to deliver a thin, crisp base with caramelised edges and absolutely zero flop. The kitchen stretches each dough by hand and tops it with accredited British produce before sliding it into the oven. Guests can share a twenty-two-inch whole pie or order individual slices, including the seasonal Sidewalk topped with crushed tomato, salsa verde, roasted peppers, and vegan nduja.
The Common venue channels what the Good Food Guide calls genuine house party hospitality, pairing swift table service with a well-sauced bar that pours craft pints and mixed drinks until late. Outdoor tables fill up during warmer months while indoor spaces host karaoke nights and shuffleboard tournaments at select locations. Recognised as a Local Gem this year, the space remains focused on straightforward food preparation and affordable portions that keep regulars returning.
Recognition
Location