Rudy’s Pizzeria will open its outlet at Queen Avenue on Castle Street – in the same premises previously occupied by Argentinian-themed restaurant chain, Cau. Tony McDonough reports

Called the ‘best pizza restaurant in the UK’ by Trip Advisor, Rudy’s Pizzeria arrives in Liverpool this weekend.

On Sunday, Rudy’s will open its outlet at Queen Avenue on Castle Street – in the same premises previously occupied by Argentinian-themed restaurant chain, Cau, which collapsed in the summer.

The brand originated in an area of Ancoats in Manchester known as ‘Little Italy’ in 2015 and its focus on a ‘artisan approach’ using local suppliers has seen the brand quickly gain popularity among casual diners.

Rudy’s in Liverpool will offer space for 120 diners in a space featuring stripped-back industrial style decor with a traditional pizza oven at its heart, cultivating a relaxed environment and following the traditions and artistry of pizza from Naples.

The restaurant makes its dough on site each day, taking 24 hours to double ferment and just 60 seconds to cook, creating soft, light and floppy pizza. It is a walk-in venue and does not take bookings.

It has achieved critical acclaim. New international guidebook, Where to Eat Pizza, describes it as “Now one of the best places to eat pizza in the world” and The Guardian voted Rudy’s as one of the top 10 pizzas in the UK.

Queen Avenue is Liverpool’s last remaining Victorian arcade and is part of Queen Insurance Buildings, which is owned by Bruntwood. The new Rudy’s occupies a 6,000 sq ft space facing on to Castle Street.

Andrea George, head of retail and leisure at Bruntwood, said: “Rudy’s has come a long way in a short space of time, evolving from humble beginnings to quickly establish itself as a top-class artisan pizza retailer.

“I have no doubt they will continue their success in Liverpool, supported by the growing sense of community that exists among the mix of retail and leisure operators along Queen Avenue.”