Propa at Sheepfolds, Sunderland

Head down to Sheepfolds and you'll find yourself in what used to be actual stables—now it's this buzzy courtyard where Propa's slung proper Neapolitan-style pizzas from a wood-fired oven. The whole setup feels unpretentious but the food doesn't mess about: sourdough bases, quality toppings, and charred edges done right. It's the kind of place that's packed on a Friday night because locals know what's up, not because it's been Instagram-hyped to death. Grab a seat outside when the weather's decent, order something with proper mozzarella, and you'll understand why people keep coming back.