Last night, our Editor-in-Chief Laura Bartlett made a much-anticipated return to San Carlo Flying Pizza, which just reopened following a six-month refurbishment. Drawing inspiration from the traditional Italian villas of Lake Como, the new design features terrazzo floors that elevate the restaurant’s authentic Italian ambiance. The updated interiors blend retro elements with a completely revamped bar, preserving the original charm that has long defined San Carlo Flying Pizza...
San Carlo Flying Pizza is more than just a restaurant to me, it’s a part of my life story. Having dined at the restaurant more times than I could ever recount, I have memories here with my family that will last me a lifetime.
To say that I have been at a loose end during their refurbishment would be an understatement as I dine at this restaurant practically every week, so it was great to return for the grand unveiling ahead of their official launch this weekend.
As I entered, I was greeted by bespoke artwork celebrating local artists and a new shellfish installation, paying homage to Flying Pizza’s longstanding display. The custom design, all crafted in-house, draws from concepts established in the restaurant group’s successful Alderley Edge establishment while honouring the well-loved features of San Carlo Flying Pizza.
With a seating capacity of up to 130, the restaurant caters to various dining experiences. Personally, I am eagerly looking forward to the new summer menu, available across all San Carlo locations. The menu showcases fresh, meticulously crafted dishes that remain true to the restaurant’s Italian roots.
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, reminisced: “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 epitomised 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,” added Marcello.
The refurbishment honours the restaurant’s storied past while infusing it with modern elegance. Marcello reflected 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.”
For more information or to book, visit San Carlo’s website at: San Carlo.
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