Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana, York – Restaurant Review

By Graham Clark, October 2025

You might not expect one of York’s newest pizza restaurants to be named after the owner’s dog; however, that is how Rudy’s got its name. Situated in a former shoe shop on High Ousegate, the restaurant is part of a growing chain that made its debut in Manchester in 2015.

Since then, new restaurants have opened from Newcastle to London, including branches in Leeds, Sheffield and York.

“Made to feel welcome”

The décor inside feels almost unfinished – think concrete floors, wooden panels that could do with a lick of varnish, air-conditioning ducting visible on the ceiling, and a mixture of seating on the main floor. Not that Rudy’s in York is cold or lacking atmosphere – far from it. It’s the sort of restaurant suited to a dinner date, a meet-up with friends or a family meal. Everyone is made to feel welcome, as evidenced by the warm and genuine reception from the friendly staff.

If the weather is warm enough, there is a small outdoor eating area situated at the back of the restaurant.

The clientele is mixed and, as you might expect in York, includes a smattering of tourists alongside locals who are regular visitors – apparently one couple dine every week at the same table.

“Authentic”

The wine list includes three Italian reds and three whites, with just one rosé. Italian beers, aperitivi and cocktails – and, naturally, Prosecco – vie for attention.

Starters include Sicilian Nocellara olives, burrata and a favourite, garlic bread, which was a meal in itself. The difference here was that, instead of processed cheese, the mozzarella was authentic with a strong kick.

The main menu sticks to 16 different pizzas, deviating only to side salads. The prices are extremely reasonable, with a margherita starting at £9.90 and the Triple Pepperoni at £14.50, including plenty of vegetarian options.

“Sense of anticipation”

Blackboards are dotted along the walls listing specials, though most seemed to be on the main menu in any case. Every month there are special pizzas, too.

The open kitchen gives a sense of anticipation, with the smells, sights and sounds of pizzas being prepared in front of diners.

The dough is made on site every day, taking two hours to double-ferment and just 60 seconds to cook. Neapolitan pizza is soft, light and floppy, so it’s often better folded for strength – or better still, tackled with a knife and fork. The Triple Pepperoni comes with Napoli, Calabrian and British meats and, surprisingly, a layer of chilli honey that gives a zesty, sweet thrill to the dish. It is one of the most authentic and appetising pizzas tasted this far north of Naples.

“Pleasant surprise”

Like the majority of pizzerias in Italy, the dessert menu is as short as the patience of an Italian driver. The Panna Cotta Cheesecake was expected to arrive on a plate, so its presentation in a glass was a pleasant surprise. Priced at £5.90, it was a guilty pleasure, with a firm biscuit base and a zesty red-berry compote. The sweet temptation finished off a meal that was satisfying, sumptuous and sensuous – the shoe definitely fits at Rudy’s.

Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana, 5 High Ousegate, York YO1 8RX
rudyspizza.co.uk

Graham Clark( Writer )

Graham was born and raised in Keighley. A dedicated live music enthusiast, he has attended hundreds of concerts across the North and feels fortunate to have Bradford, Leeds, Sheffield and Manchester within easy reach — all key stops on major touring circuits. He has also supported Bradford Live, the upcoming 4,000-capacity venue opening in autumn 2025, helping to secure backing from some of the biggest names in live entertainment. Passionate about food, Graham draws on his background in hospitality to offer honest, experience-led insights in his reviews. He’s also a keen traveller, having explored extensively throughout Europe, America and Asia.

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