Pizza enthusiasts have reason to celebrate as Zonda, acclaimed as the best pizza in the Cotswolds, settles into a permanent new location at the celebrated Halfway at Kineton pub.
Zonda began its journey in August 2022 at Stow-on-the-Wold rugby club, initially operating from a gazebo before moving into a converted shipping container. Over two successful years, the venture expanded, moving to the Kings Arms in Chipping Norton, where it served customers until early May 2024.
The next exciting chapter sees Zonda partnering with The Halfway at Kineton, just a few miles northeast of Cheltenham. This pub, currently undergoing a full refurbishment, will reopen in early June, poised to welcome guests to a revitalized venue.
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The Halfway at Kineton has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most talked-about foodie pubs in the region. Operated 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 pub has featured in the Michelin Guide for two consecutive years and regularly garners national media attention.
Cam Kelly, Zonda’s founder, expresses his excitement: “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 cook for those who supported us from the beginning and continue pushing the boundaries of pizza in this part of the world.”
The collaboration marks a significant evolution for The Halfway, showcasing a progressive approach to hospitality. It ensures the pub’s ongoing growth and its ability to offer exceptional food and drink experiences to guests.
Nathan Eades adds, “With the successful launch of The Hollow Bottom last July, we wanted to diversify our local offerings to benefit both businesses rather than compete. The Halfway was our first pub, and our connection to it runs deep. Bringing Zonda here breathes new life into the pub, especially in today’s challenging climate. It’s truly a rebirth of our mothership.”
The Halfway provides 45 indoor covers and a spacious garden, which is expected to flourish during the summer months. This blend of a strong, well-established food operation with a beloved pizza brand promises to create an exceptional dining experience for the north Cotswolds community.