Nell's Kampus

If you’ve ever spent more than a second in Manchester, you’ll know; Nell’s isn’t just a pizza joint - it’s an institution. With five sites dotted around Greater Manchester, including the ever-popular Kampus location, Nell’s has become synonymous with oversized, New York-style slices that verge on the ridiculous. ‘Verge’ is the operative word. As the crowd at Nell’s Kampus proves, there’s nothing silly about tucking into a slice bigger than your head and chatting over canalside pints in the rare Manc sunshine.

Outside, just opposite Canal Street, generous bench-style tables serve as a stage for the Nell’s ritual: a little tactical folding followed by sauce dipping. Whole pies clock in at a whopping 22 inches, stretched thin, just scorched, and loaded with quality toppings. Most hover around the £35 mark, though a single slice can cost as little as £3.50.

The ‘Do You ‘Roni Honey’ is a clear highlight. It’s simple stuff, but Nell’s execution makes it a classic: thin-based and crispy, with Cobble Lane pepperoni and chilli honey, plus a swipe of ‘nduja to keep things interesting.

Likewise, the ‘Magic Number’ arrives with swirls of salsa verde, buffalo ricotta cream, and mozzarella, all concealing a sweet but subtle vodka sauce. It’s a whirlpool of fresh creamy flavours, and while a punchier vodka marinara would be welcome, we’d happily fall face first into it.

Starters and smaller bites are no afterthought either. Doughballs are a crunchy-chewy revelation, showered with parmesan and pesto, and crying out to be dunked into a chilli honey sauce. It’s sweet, spicy, and frankly addictive.

Beyond the food, Nell’s has nailed its identity. The Kampus site bursts with colour, wit, and a playful edge that makes the whole experience feel fun. It’s hard not to go overboard with a place like this - cheeky menu names, colourful interiors, and laid-back charm are motivators to do so. For groups of two, it’s best to stick to a few by-the-slice options or go for a regular 14-inch pizza, especially if you’re looking to squeeze in a salted caramel ice cream sandwich (something we highly recommend).

Pizza, parties, and proper vibes: Nell’s Kampus has firmly established itself as one of Manchester’s go-to spots for a night that blends big slices with bigger energy. Sitting pretty at Kampus, just off Minshull Street, Nell’s brings New York–inspired pizza to the heart of the city, served up with Mancunian warmth and a playful, house-party spirit.

The concept was born when founders Jonny and Charlotte Heyes decided the UK needed a break from its Neapolitan obsession. After months spent roaming Brooklyn pizzerias and perfecting a hand-stretched base, Nell’s opened its doors in 2020 – promising a pizza that’s thin, crisp, and big enough to feed your entire crew. The 22-inch pies are the stuff of legend: think double down pepperoni layered with Properoni and Cobble Lane slices, or the gloriously chaotic Original Sausage Material, a fiery mix of sausage, jalapeño and chilli sauce. For BBQ lovers, Barbie and Ken combines smoky chicken, peppers, maple sauce and tangy pickled chillies – a slice that really knows how to dress up.

Of course, pizza is only half the story. Nell’s Kampus is a fully-fledged bar with pints, frozen cocktails, and a fun-first ethos that makes every table feel like a friend’s kitchen after midnight. You can walk in and grab a booth, but it’s worth booking if you don’t fancy hovering while eyeing up someone else’s pizza the size of a steering wheel.

And then there’s the karaoke booth: a soundproof hideaway for 12 people, complete with the vibe of a house party gone gloriously rogue. You can belt ballads, rap like you mean it, or murder a duet while clinging to your margarita. It’s chaotic, joyful, and completely in tune with the Nell’s philosophy: food, friends, and fun.

Beyond the energy, Nell’s is serious about doing things right – from locally sourcing ingredients and running on 100% green electricity to supporting their team with enhanced maternity and paternity leave. Add over £35k raised for charity since 2021, and you’ve got a restaurant that’s as big-hearted as its pizzas. Come for the slices, stay for the karaoke, and leave with a story you probably shouldn’t tell at work on Monday.