Pizza enthusiasts in the Cotswolds have reason to celebrate as Zonda, hailed as the region’s best pizza, settles into a new permanent location at The Halfway at Kineton, a popular and prestigious pub near Cheltenham.
Since its launch in August 2022, Zonda’s journey has been remarkable. Starting humbly at Stow-on-the-Wold rugby club from a gazebo and later a converted shipping container, the brand quickly grew in popularity. Following two successful years, Zonda expanded, operating from the Kings Arms in Chipping Norton until its recent farewell on May 3.
Now, Zonda is poised for its next chapter at The Halfway at Kineton, reopening in early June after a full refurbishment. This establishment has already cemented its reputation as one of the Cotswolds’ top foodie pubs, frequently recognized among the UK’s top 100 gastropubs. Founded by chefs Nathan Eades and Liam Goff—also behind The Hollow Bottom in Guiting Power and the Bib Gourmand-awarded Horse & Groom in Bourton on the Hill—The Halfway has been featured in the Michelin Guide for the past two years and is a staple in national culinary press.
Cam Kelly, creator of Zonda, shared his enthusiasm: “This feels like a huge moment for us. Zonda started very small, and so many people took a chance on us early on. To now have a permanent home at The Halfway is incredibly exciting. I can’t wait to start cooking for so many of the people who supported us right from the beginning, and to keep pushing what pizza can be in this part of the world.”
The collaboration marks a dynamic step forward for The Halfway, embodying a modern approach to hospitality and a dedication to delivering exceptional food and drink experiences. Nathan Eades commented, “With the successful opening of The Hollow Bottom last July, we wanted to diversify our offerings to support both ventures rather than compete. The Halfway holds a special place in our hearts, and this partnership with Zonda breathes new life into the pub during challenging times. It’s truly a rebirth of our mothership.”
The Halfway boasts seating for 45 guests inside along with a spacious garden area expected to flourish during the summer. Combining the pub’s established culinary excellence with Zonda’s beloved pizza promises to create a unique and exciting dining destination in the northern Cotswolds.