Legendary Leeds restaurant’s £2m makeover to celebrate venue’s 50th anniversary

A legendary Leeds restaurant has reopened after a £2million refurbishment.

San Carlo Flying Pizza, the renowned Italian restaurant in Roundhay has enjoyed a major makeover. Drawing inspiration from traditional Italian villas on Lake Como, the renovation features new terrazzo floors that enhance the restaurant’s authentic Italian feel.

The updated interiors also incorporate nostalgic elements and a fully renovated bar. Although, they aimed to maintain their core values ​​at the historic restaurant.

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Customers can expect to see more custom artwork celebrating local artists, along with a new crustacean installment that pays homage to Flying Pizza’s long-standing exposure.

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, chief executive at San Carlo, said: “I lived in Roundhay until I was seven.

“My family and I ate at Flying Pizza every Sunday at the same table. The place was always full of regulars who brought life and character to the restaurant. Adriano, the original owner, was a larger-than-life character who played the part of an Italian restaurant owner. My dad still keeps in touch with him.”

The Distefano family’s deep-rooted connection to Flying Pizza led them to purchase the restaurant when it faced closure. Marcello added: “It was important for us to keep the Flying Pizza name as it had legendary status in Yorkshire. Now on its 50th anniversary, we have undertaken a second renovation to breathe new life into this iconic venue.

The renovation honors the restaurant’s storied past while infusing it with modern elegance. Marcello concluded: “As a child, I was always amazed by the supercars parked outside. It felt like a showroom in front of the restaurant. We hope Flying Pizza will be around for another 50 years. We may not be here, but hopefully someone else will continue to look after the restaurant and its legacy.”

You can find out more and book a visit by visiting the San Carlo website.

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