Savouring Perfection: Anello Pizza’s Artful Approach to Flavour and Finesse
There’s something undeniably charming about Slaithwaite. A village that feels like it belongs in the pages of a novel, where the canal winds through its heart, inviting you to slow down and take in the beauty of its surroundings. And after a long Sunday walk along that canal, there are few things more satisfying than the prospect of exceptional food in a welcoming setting. Enter Anello Pizza, a restaurant that serves some of the finest slices you’ll find in Yorkshire and welcomes four-legged companions with open arms—an immediate win in my book.
A Setting That Beckons You In
Anello exudes a laid-back, café-chic charm. Think vibrant colours, an effortlessly cool yet unpretentious style, and floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the space with natural light. It’s relaxed, it’s inviting, and it’s brimming with the kind of warmth that makes you want to linger a little longer.
And then, of course, there’s the menu—a masterclass in creativity, constantly evolving to showcase the very best ingredients. This isn’t your standard pizza joint; it’s a place where each dish feels carefully curated, where flavours are layered with intention, and where choosing just one thing feels like an impossible task.
A Feast to Remember
We started with a selection of small plates, sharing Nocellara olives and Nduja chicken wings with fermented chilli honey and basil. Simple yet perfectly executed, the olives were plump and buttery, elevated by a delicate hint of lemon that made them sing. But it was the chicken wings that stole the show—a sublime balance of heat and sweetness, the fermented chilli honey adding an unexpected depth of flavour that lingered beautifully on the palate.
And then came the pizzas—and, my goodness, what a treat they were. We each chose our own, but in hindsight, two between three would have been plenty. First up, the Roast Ham & Red Onion, a classic combination brought to life with rich tomato, indulgent mozzarella, fragrant basil, and salty pecorino. Then, the Pepperoni, a perfect nod to tradition, but with a quality of ingredients that set it apart from anything you’d find in a standard pizzeria.
But if there was a single dish that deserved a standing ovation, it was the Portobello Mushroom pizza. A revelation of earthy, umami-laden goodness, lifted by garlic oil, oregano, and the perfect dusting of pecorino. It was the kind of pizza that makes you stop mid-bite, look around the table, and say, “You have to try this.” Utterly sublime.
The Details That Matter
A good meal is about more than just great food—it’s about the whole experience. And Anello delivers on every front. The staff are effortlessly stylish, but more importantly, they’re warm, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. There’s an ease to the service that makes you feel well looked after without ever being hurried.
And then there’s the drinks selection, a carefully curated lineup of IPA beers that pair wonderfully with the food, adding yet another layer to the dining experience.
When the bill arrived—less than £70 for three people—it felt almost unbelievable given the sheer quality of what we’d just enjoyed. Exceptional food, incredible service, and a price point that makes this an experience worth repeating.
Final Thoughts
Anello Pizza is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place to gather, indulge, and enjoy the kind of food that lingers in your memory long after you’ve left. Whether you’re in the mood for a relaxed lunch, a post-walk treat, or simply a place that celebrates thoughtful, flavour-driven cooking, this little Slaithwaite gem is worth every visit.
And if you do go, trust me—order the Portobello Mushroom pizza. You’ll thank me later.
