Our Journey
Mastering the craft of genuine Italian pizza with dedication since 1985
From the Heart of Naples to Your Local Area
'OpenOrchard originated from a humble vision: to share true Neapolitan pizza with Rome. The enterprise, initiated by the Evans family in 1985, began as a modest local shop where family recipes have been preserved across generations.
Victoria Evans, our patriarch, mastered pizza craft on her excursions across Italy, seeking knowledge from esteemed pizzaiolos in Naples, the home of pizza. When she came back to the UK, her mission was to replicate the essence of genuine Italian pizza, embracing age-old practices and the finest components.
Starting out as a quaint pizzeria seating only 12, it has now flourished into a cherished culinary venue, maintaining our focus on excellence and authenticity. Our wood-fired ovens remain central to our process, we prepare our dough on-site every day, and we persistently seek out prime ingredients.
To this day, 'OpenOrchard' is maintained by the family, with its second generation at the helm, guiding our zealous squad. Though we've incorporated modern touches, our core philosophy persists: to produce savory, genuine pizza that unites our customers.
Our Principles
Premium Ingredients
We procure only the best, freshest ingredients, partnering with regional growers and Italian vendors to guarantee flavors are authentic.
Time-Honored Techniques
Each of our pizzas is handcrafted following traditional practices, with dough that's allowed to rise over 48 hours and baked in true wood-burning ovens.
Community Engagement
We aim to be more than just a dining spot by being an integral component of our local area, backing community activities and fostering a hospitable environment for everyone.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Our dedication to the environment is steadfast, from minimizing food waste to utilizing biodegradable packaging and endorsing sustainable farming.
Discover Our Team
The dedicated individuals behind our sumptuous pizzas
Victoria Evans
Proprietor & Lead Chef
In charge for more than 15 years, this second-generation owner honed their skills in Naples to refine our signature offerings.
Sophia Marquez
Head Chef
A culinary expert with 12 years of experience, Sophia was trained in Italy and is a master of incorporating seasonal favorites into our menu.
Marcus Romano
Principal Pizzaiolo
A native of Naples, Marcus wields over two decades of pizza crafting expertise and provides training to our budding pizzaiolos.
Lena Thomas
Restaurant Manager
Lena makes sure every visitor enjoys a memorable meal and supervises our front-of-house staff with friendliness and efficiency.
Danny Cheng
Beverage Director
Specializing in Italian beverages and ideal pizza companions, Danny oversees our selection of drinks to complement our menu.
Customer Endorsements
This is the most genuine Neapolitan pizza you'll find outside Italy. The dough is just the right amount of chewy, adorned with those distinctive char marks that come only from a properly heated wood-fired oven.
John Williamson
I appreciate that 'OpenOrchard' champions locality in its ingredients and practices sustainability. The distinction is evident in every slice. Their rotating seasonal offerings are highly anticipated!
Emma Johnston
I have been a patron for years, and the consistency is impeccable. The staff welcomes you like one of their own, and the pizzas are divine – the Truffle Mushroom pizza is not to be missed!
Mike Richards
Accolades & Recognition
Foremost Pizzeria in Karlport
Local Culinary Awards, 2019-2023
Leading 50 Pizza Spots in the UK
Nationwide Dining Guide, 2021-2023
Certified Real Neapolitan Pizza
Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, 2018
Award for Sustainable Business Practices
Local Eco-Friendly Business Consortium, 2022
Pay Us a Visit
Immerse yourself in the genuine flavor of Italian pizza within our cordial and homely setting