Vine & Fire, a Mediterranean small plates restaurant on St Johns Road in Waterloo, Crosby, is expanding with a new pizzeria called Bella Pizza & Pasta at 106 Bridge Road, Litherland, just four months after its original opening. The announcement was made via Instagram by owners Josh Stanton and Hannah Stanton.
Rapid Expansion Following Strong Start
Josh Stanton, chef and owner, opened Vine & Fire on March 7, 2026, despite having no formal business education. He told the Liverpool Echo that the response was "fantastic" and that he did not expect to be so busy within six weeks. He noted, "The amount of feedback we're getting is unreal. Everyone is loving it."
The new venue, Bella Pizza & Pasta, will occupy the premises formerly housing Giuseppe's Pizzeria, which closed in June 2026. An official opening date has not yet been announced, but the Instagram post stated it is "coming soon."
Concept and Menu
Vine & Fire offers Mediterranean-inspired small plates, described by Josh as "slightly larger than tapas." He emphasized his ability to cook a wide range of European cuisines, saying, "I can do anything in Europe food-wise." Bella Pizza & Pasta will focus on pizzas and fresh pasta, as per the announcement.
Josh built the restaurant with his father and credited the local community for the success. He remarked, "It's one of the best streets on Earth. I've got regulars coming back to me and I've only been open six weeks."
