Our Story
Since 1985, we've been devoted to making genuine Italian pizza with fervor
From Naples to Your Neighborhood
'OrchardMere initiated with an ambition: to serve genuine Neapolitan pizza in Rome. The Rossi family opened our pizzeria in 1985 as a quaint, familial venture with age-old recipes passed on for generations.
Marco Rossi, our originator, acquired the pizza crafting skillset throughout her Italian journey, particularly from adept pizza makers in Naples, where pizza was conceived. After her UK return, she aspired to replicate the classic Italian pizza using age-validated techniques and the choicest ingredients.
Our small pizzeria, initially with just 12 seats, has expanded into a cherished community fixture, yet our dedication to superior quality and genuineness is steadfast. We persist in utilizing traditional wood-fired ovens, preparing our dough daily from scratch, and selecting top-grade ingredients.
To this day, 'OrchardMere is still in the hands of the Rossi family, with the second generation steering our enthusiastic crew. While updating some aspects with modern touches, the essence of our enterprise endures: crafting delicious, genuine pizza that gathers folks together.
Our Values
Quality Ingredients
We procure the freshest and most premium ingredients, partnering with local growers and Italian suppliers to guarantee true flavors.
Traditional Methods
Our pizza-making abides by long-established practices, including a 48-hour dough fermentation and cooking in authentic wood-fired ovens.
Community Focus
Our vision extends beyond being a restaurant; we're a vibrant part of our neighborhood, endorsing local ventures and fostering a hospitable venue for everyone.
Sustainability
Our commitment to ecological stewardship is evident in our practices, from decreasing food wastage to utilizing environmentally friendly containers and backing sustainable farming.
Meet Our Team
The dedicated artisans behind our savory pizzas
Marco Rossi
Owner & Head Chef
An heir of the owner's mantle who refined their craft in Naples, enhancing our recipes for over 15 years.
Anna Bellini
Executive Chef
With culinary training from Italy, she contributes a decade of gastronomic experience to our kitchen, particularly with seasonal creations.
Luca Ferrero
Master Pizzaiolo
A genuine Neapolitan, Luca has been perfecting pizzas for two decades and imparts his knowledge to our chefs.
Nicole Davies
Restaurant Manager
Ensuring an outstanding dining affair for every visitor, she leads our customer service team with grace and proficiency.
Henry Wong
Sommelier & Beverage Director
Oversees our beverage selection, specializing in Italian juices and harmonizing them with our pizzas.
What Our Customers Say
An outstanding Neapolitan pizza experience this side of Italy. The crust holds its own with the right amount of chew and those sought-after char marks that only a wood-fired oven can achieve.
Benjamin Clarke
Admiring that 'OrchardMere embraces local produce and eco-friendly operations. Each slice evidences quality. Their rotating specials are highly anticipated!
Emily Harris
Frequenting for years, and their standard holds solid. The team welcomes you as their own, and the pizza is divine, true to its name. Don't overlook their Truffle Mushroom pizza!
Oliver Sanchez
Awards & Recognition
Best Pizzeria in Karlport
Local Food Awards, 2019-2023
Top 50 Pizzerias in the UK
National Restaurant Guide, 2021-2023
Certified for Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
True Neapolitan Pizza Association, 2018
Award for Green Business Practices
Eco-Friendly Business Consortium, 2022
Come Visit Us
Delight in the flavors of true Italian pizza in our inviting and friendly setting