- Play Hard
- 9th Jul 2025
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- 0 minute
Foodies, introducing one of Sunderland’s best-kept restaurant secrets – Wild Fire
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If you’re searching for the best Italian restaurants in Sunderland town centre, stop scrolling – we’ve found the ultimate hidden gem – Wild Fire.
Wild Fire is one of those unique dining destinations that serves laid-back vibes with next-level food, perfect for a chilled date night or catching up with friends. Think industrial-chic interiors, an open kitchen with a roaring pizza oven and a buzzing bar area decked out with vintage football scarves – it’s a place that feels cool, but the food seriously brings the heat.
And while there are plenty of restaurants in Sunderland to choose from, Wild Fire stands out for its commitment to making a statement.
PSA: Wild Fire has just launched their new summer menu – here’s everything you need to know…
SMALL PLATES THAT DESERVE THE SPOTLIGHT
Before we even get to the pizzas, let’s talk about the small plates. The While You Wait starts things off strong with any 3 for £10 – a no-brainer if you’re with friends or just fancy a graze while sipping a cheeky cocktail (or two).
Their crispy crushed potatoes are genuinely unforgettable. Choose between the garlic mayo drizzle or the rib-rub version with B-Sting hot honey and ranch – both are unreal. The return of their legendary meatballs in marinara sauce with parmesan and basil is already causing a buzz and the burrata-loaded dishes – with prosciutto, grilled peaches or spicy nduja – are creamy, bold and bursting with flavour.
And if you’re after something lighter? The grilled chicken Caesar salad, burrata caprese, and roasted pepper delights bring freshness and zing, proving Wild Fire isn’t just about pizza.
THE MAIN EVENT: PIZZA LIKE YOU’VE NEVER HAD BEFORE
Wild Fire’s pizza game is strong – some would say iconic. Using classic San Marzano tomatoes and Fior di Latte cheese as a base, each pizza is built with bold, punchy toppings that somehow balance comfort with a delicious surprise.
The Wild Fire and Hypebeast spice things up with nduja, salami Milano, chillies and their now-famous B-Sting hot honey drizzle. The ODB – with pepperoni, fresh oregano, and an optional garlic butter swirl – is a crowd-pleaser, while Plantface Killah delivers a full vegan punch with vegan nduja, burrata and EVOO.
Prefer your pizza white-base style (no tomato sauce)? The Big Man (What’s Ya Name?) is rich and indulgent with roasted peppers, confit garlic and burrata, while Chicken Alla Vodka offers a creamy twist with herb-roasted chicken and breadcrumbs. Every slice is served hot from the oven, made fresh as you order – it’s the kind of pizza that we’re still dreaming about.
Whether you’re a meat lover or a plant-based foodie, there’s something for all taste buds. And for those looking for restaurants Sunderland locals genuinely rave about, Wild Fire is quickly becoming the go-to spot.
DON’T SKIP DESSERT
The best Sunderland restaurants know how to finish strong, and Wild Fire has got it bang on. Their Wild Fire Tiramisu is worth saving some room for – and hands down one of the best we’ve tried in the North East.
But if you’re more of a cookie lover, the WF Cookie Sundae delivers gooey, creamy joy in every bite. You’ll also find vanilla panna cotta with strawberries and elderflower, plus affogato for a true Italian finish.
COCKTAILS & CHILLED VIBES
The drinks menu? Absolutely worth a mention. Aperol spritz, fiery margaritas with B-Sting hot honey, and a knockout espresso martini all feature. Plus, there’s a tasty alcohol-free selection – from Amalfi Collins to Amaretti Sours.
Add in a well-curated wine list, local beers, ciders and soft drinks, and you’ve got the perfect pairing for every pizza slice.
WHY WILD FIRE DESERVES A SPOT ON YOUR FOOD HIT LIST
So, if you’re making a list of Sunderland restaurants to visit this summer, make sure Wild Fire is right at the top.
Wild Fire, Hanover Place, Sunderland SR4 6BY
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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