One of Manchester’s top pizzerias has been selected as one of the finalists for the 2026 National Pizza Awards. The line-up features some of the leading pizza creators in the country, bringing together a mix of independent and group operators from across the hospitality industry, including Manchester’s very own Nell’s, for one giant cook-off.
Taking place at London’s Big Penny Social on Tuesday 3th November, the 10th anniversary of the event will see debut appearances at the live final from the likes of Nell’s in Manchester, competing with their Do You Roni, Honey? pizza. Stretch from Hove, Hereford’s Leaven Pizza, Newcastle’s CIRCO and newly launched London restaurant Five Feet will also be competing for the first time.
Some of the finalists are returning to the prestigious competition for another chance at the National Pizza of the Year title, including London’s Crust Bros, Yard Sale Pizza, Pizza Pilgrims and Franco Manca. This year will also see the return of 2022 and 2024 champions Bad Boy Pizza Society. The full list of finalists can be found below.
The National Pizza Awards final
On top of a signature round, which determines the National Pizza of the Year, the event will see pizzaiolos take part in a technical challenge where they must create the ultimate pizza from a selection of sponsor ingredients, all in an effort to claim the Pizza Chef of the Year title.
This year will also see the return of The Alternative Slice Award, given to the competitor who puts together the most delicious and outstanding dish from a range of free-from products. The winners are decided by three panels of expert industry judges.
The 2026 National Pizza Awards finalists
- ALFI Dom
- At the Chapel Salsiccia
- Bad Boy Pizza Society Vodka Sausage
- CIRCO Hot Like Gigi
- Crust Bros Carbo
- Due Forni Bella & Buona
- East West The Silence of the Lambs
- Five Feet Hot Sausage
- Franco Manca Mezzaluna
- Leaven Pizza Diavolo al Sesamo
- Nell’s Do You Roni, Honey?
- Pizza Pilgrims Che Cavolo
- Scott’s All Day Peaches, Peaches, Peaches
- Stretch The Herd
- Yard Sale Pizza The Gaeng Pizza Gang
- Zizzi Black Gold
