Historic Bermondsey Bakery Revived as Artisanal Pizzeria

A New Slice of History on Tanner Street

Bermondsey’s ever-evolving food scene is about to welcome a highly anticipated newcomer that pays deep homage to the neighbourhood’s rich industrial past. Opening this September at No. 4 Tanner Street, ‘Five Feet’ is set to breathe new life into the historic site of Dobson’s Bakery. For generations, this location served as a cornerstone of the local community, and its conversion into an independent pizzeria marks an exciting new chapter for the area. The name ‘Five Feet’ itself is a clever nod to local history, referencing Five Foot Lane, the historic name for Tanner Street. Designed by Studio Deidra Hodgson, the 55-cover space will beautifully preserve the building’s heritage, seamlessly blending exposed brick and stucco-finished walls with warm lemon accents, cherry-toned timber, and intimate banquettes. A standout feature of the design is a glass-panelled dough room, allowing passersby and diners to watch the culinary magic unfold. For Bermondsey residents, this opening is more than just another restaurant; it represents a thoughtful restoration of a beloved local landmark, ensuring that the historic fabric of our high street continues to thrive.

Culinary Pioneers and Local Collaborations

The powerhouse team behind this venture brings serious hospitality pedigree to our corner of South London. Co-founders Jay Patel of Legare and Luna, Roland Horne of WatchHouse, and head baker Jack Ellingham, alumnus of Dusty Knuckle and Spring, have joined forces to create something truly unique. To make the magic happen, the team is sourcing ingredients from esteemed local purveyors, including Bermondsey Butchery and Westcombe Dairy. As these seasoned entrepreneurs expand their culinary footprints from Richmond to Southwark, managing the complex finances of multi-site operations becomes a major logistical task. Behind the scenes, many successful London food businesses rely on professional local services, such as Hounslow bookkeeping experts, to navigate the complexities of supply chain invoicing and payroll. This rigorous attention to detail extends to Five Feet’s kitchen, where Ellingham will use a Montpellier-imported stone mill—the first of its kind in the UK—to grind heritage grains grown by independent British farmers. By prioritising independent suppliers and keeping operations tightly managed, the founders are setting a new standard for sustainable, community-first restaurant operations in the capital.

What This Opening Means for the Bermondsey Community

So, what can local food lovers expect when the doors finally swing open? Five Feet is steering away from traditional Neapolitan styles to champion thick, airy pan pizzas. Baked in seasoned black iron pans, these pizzas feature a distinct, caramelised crust that is spongy yet crisp. The menu boasts mouth-watering combinations like the Hot Sausage Pie with Calabrian chilli honey, alongside vegan-friendly options and decadent comfort plates like polenta fritta. For Bermondsey locals, this new hub promises to be a vibrant gathering space, complete with a large communal table perfect for family get-togethers and neighbourhood celebrations. Residents should keep an eye on No. 4 Tanner Street as renovations near completion this autumn. Supporting independent establishments like Five Feet helps preserve the unique character of our neighbourhood, keeping multinational chains at bay while celebrating local craftsmanship. Whether you are dropping in for a quick slice, sharing a carafe of low-intervention wine with neighbours, or simply marveling at the vintage stone mill, Five Feet is set to become an indispensable part of our community’s daily life.

Source: EXCLUSIVE | The Team Behind Legare, Luna and WatchHouse Are Bringing Pizza To Bermondsey Street