This homage to the classic Neapolitan pizza style they love has been a huge hit for Jim Morgan and Kate Wilson, who saved up for five years before taking the plunge into their own place. It’s named after their dog, Rudy, who is – literally – a sleeping partner across the way with friends. Little Italy was a self-sufficient Italian emigrant community in this area from the 1880s. Their ghosts must approve. The punters, who form long queues to get in certainly do.
We recommend the Margherita Extra Pizza, which uses premium buffalo mozzarella and costs a couple of quid more than the standard, both having the benefit of sweet Marzano tomatoes. For something spicier go for the Tarantina, featuring anchovies, olives, oregano and capers. Red wine is from Reserve but there are also excellent beers from Cloudater and Runaway often on the shelves.
Whatever the topping at Rudy's the base is prepared the same way, using a very strong 00 flour, not the sourdough featured by those who look west for their pizza inspiration. Proving – ie resting and rising – takes a straight 24 hours.