News / New Openings
Former bank given new life as 120-seater pizzeria
A former Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS) branch has been given a new lease of life as the Bristol hub of a popular Manchester-born pizza group.
Rudy’s which started its food and drink journey back in 2015 in Ancoats in Manchester with its Neapolitan pizza offerings has quickly built up a following and now boasts over 30 branches around the country.
In line with its national expansion, the group has dropped its flag at the former RBS branch on Baldwin Street which has been vacant since 2021.
is needed now More than ever
The new pizzeria is expected to create up to 35 new local jobs, including roles for a manager, front-of-house staff and pizzaiolos.
Cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens, Rudy’s pizzas are known for their light, soft texture and raised crust – photo: Rudy’s
Spanning 3,000 sq ft, the revamped space will seat 120 diners indoors, with plans for an additional 35 outdoor covers during the warmer months.
Rudy’s offerings include authentic Neapolitan pizza, made with 24-hour fermented dough and high-quality ingredients imported from Naples, such as San Marzano tomatoes and fior di latte mozzarella. Cooked in traditional wood-fired ovens, the pizzas are known for their light, soft texture and raised crust.
Alongside classics like the Margherita and Marinara, the menu features rotating specials inspired by global flavours, complemented by a well-stocked bar offering Italian spritzes, lagers and soft drinks.
Rudy’s was founded in Manchester back in 2015 and has built up a strong following over the years – photo: Rudy’s
Neal Bates of Rudy’s said: “We can’t wait to reopen the doors of this previously unloved site in Bristol and share our passion for Neapolitan pizza with the city.
“With its energetic city centre, rich culture and thriving food scene, Bristol feels like a perfect fit for us. We’re excited to join the incredible restaurants and bars already here and become part of what makes this city so special.”
Rudy’s joins the fellow Mancunian brand NQ64 on the street – photo: Milan Perera
The opening adds to the burgeoning food and drink scene on Baldwin Street, following the arrival of Rosa’s Thai and Tonkotsu last autumn.
Rudy’s also joins the fellow Mancunian brand NQ64 on the street – an arcade bar concept that originated in Manchester’s Northern Quarter and opened its Bristol branch in 2023.
Main photo: Hannah Massoudi
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