Key Points

• Fratelli, a new New York-style pizza restaurant, will replace Automatic at The Met live music venue in Bury, Greater Manchester.
• Automatic, the longstanding catering partner, has closed permanently after more than 20 years of trading.
• Co-founders Charles Timin and Sam James previously worked at Automatic as teenagers, marking a sentimental return to the site.
• Founding team includes Conor Hayes, Miles Crompton, and Will Gallie, known for venues like Holcombe Tap, Eagle & Child, and The Swan & Cemetery.
• Fratelli offers New York-style pizza, fried chicken, mozzarella sticks, and lunchtime ‘pizza sandos’ (folded pizza).
• Strong community support shown through pop-ups at Makers Markets, Bury FC, Bury RUFC, The Paddock, and Eagle & Child in Ramsbottom over the past year.
• Initial plan for December pop-up shifted to permanent spot after viewing The Met space.
• Opening hours: Wednesday-Saturday 12pm-9pm, Sunday 12pm-7pm; dine-in and takeaway available.
• Joins local independents like Bloom, Wax and Bean, and reopened The Clarence, boosting Bury’s hospitality scene.
• Sam James, co-founder, stated: “We’ve been working incredibly hard on Fratelli for over a year, building the business through pop-ups and getting our name and brand out there.”
• Sam James added: “Securing a permanent home in Bury is a huge milestone, and we are proud to be another independent business in our hometown.”
• The Met announced Automatic’s closure “with a heavy heart” and “with immediate effect.”​

Bury (Manchester Mirror) February 11, 2026 – Fratelli, a vibrant New York-style pizza concept, is set to launch at The Met in Bury, Greater Manchester, replacing the beloved restaurant Automatic2026, which has shuttered after over two decades of service. This development signals a new chapter for the venue’s catering space, blending nostalgia with fresh culinary ambition as local entrepreneurs return to their roots. The transition underscores Bury’s evolving independent dining landscape amid challenging hospitality conditions.

What Is Fratelli Bringing to Bury’s Dining Scene?

Fratelli introduces authentic New York-style pizza, complemented by fried chicken and mozzarella sticks, with a unique lunchtime offering of ‘pizza sandos’ – essentially folded pizza for on-the-go indulgence. As detailed in the article by unnamed staff writers of Restaurant Online, the menu aims to capture the bold flavours of New York while catering to local tastes. This approach positions Fratelli as a casual, accessible eatery within The Met, a prominent live music venue that draws crowds for performances and events.

The venture occupies the precise space vacated by Automatic2026, ensuring seamless continuity for venue patrons seeking food alongside entertainment. Restaurant Online reports that the site’s familiarity adds to the excitement, transforming a storied location into a pizza haven.

Why Did Automatic2026 Close After 20 Years?

Automatic2026 served as The Met’s catering partner for more than two decades, becoming a fixture in Bury’s social fabric. In an official announcement on The Met’s website, the venue stated: “It’s with a heavy heart that we announce our catering partner, Automatic, will be closing its doors permanently with immediate effect.” No specific reasons for the closure were detailed in the statement, but it aligns with broader pressures on the UK hospitality sector, including rising costs and shifting consumer habits.

As reported by Restaurant Online, Automatic’s departure paves the way for Fratelli, with the handover described as timely given the new team’s readiness. The closure marks the end of an era, prompting reflections from locals who frequented the spot for reliable meals during gigs and gatherings.

Who Are the Founders Behind Fratelli?

The driving force comprises co-founders Charles Timin and Sam James, both of whom cut their teeth at Automatic as teenagers, infusing the project with personal history. Restaurant Online highlights this connection: “the launch represents a return to the site for co-founders Charles Timin and Sam James, who both worked there as teenagers.”

Joining them are Conor Hayes and Miles Crompton, alongside Will Gallie, a seasoned operator behind Holcombe Tap, Eagle & Child, and the recent revitalisation of The Swan & Cemetery in Greater Manchester. This experienced lineup brings proven expertise to Fratelli’s debut. Sam James shared his enthusiasm in quotes to Restaurant Online: “We’ve been working incredibly hard on Fratelli for over a year, building the business through pop-ups and getting our name and brand out there.” He continued, “Securing a permanent home in Bury is a huge milestone, and we are proud to be another independent business in our hometown.”

How Did Fratelli Build Momentum Before Launching?

Fratelli’s team demonstrated robust demand via a series of pop-ups across Bury and nearby areas over the past year. According to Restaurant Online, these included Makers Markets, Bury FC matches, Bury RUFC events, The Paddock, and a recent residency at the Eagle & Child in Ramsbottom. These trials not only honed the menu but also cultivated a loyal following, proving the concept’s viability.

Initially eyeing a December pop-up, the founders pivoted to permanence upon inspecting The Met’s space, opting for a full restaurant rollout. Restaurant Online notes this swift decision reflects confidence in the location and community backing.

When Will Fratelli Open and What Are the Hours?

Patrons can expect Fratelli to commence operations later this month, aligning with high anticipation in Bury. Opening schedule, as per Restaurant Online, runs Wednesday to Saturday from 12pm to 9pm, and Sundays from 12pm to 7pm, accommodating both dine-in and takeaway. This flexibility suits The Met’s event-driven calendar, allowing visitors to grab a slice before or after shows.

The venue’s management has not issued further updates on integration, but the prompt replacement suggests minimal disruption.​

What Does This Mean for Bury’s Hospitality Landscape?

Fratelli slots into a burgeoning scene of independent outlets, including Bloom, Wax and Bean, and the recently reopened The Clarence. Restaurant Online frames it as “a growing collection of local independent hospitality venues,” signalling resilience in Greater Manchester’s dining market. Amid national trends of closures – such as those noted in Michelin Guide deletions due to shutterings – Bury bucks the trend with fresh ventures.

Local support, evidenced by pop-up success, bodes well for Fratelli’s longevity. Will Gallie’s involvement, with his track record in revitalising spots like Eagle & Child, adds credibility to the project’s sustainability.

How Does New York-Style Pizza Fit Bury’s Tastes?

New York-style pizza, characterised by thin, foldable slices and crisp edges, contrasts with thicker British bases but gains traction via pop-ups. Fratelli’s additions like fried chicken and mozzarella sticks broaden appeal, while ‘pizza sandos’ innovate for lunch crowds. Restaurant Online describes the offering as a deliberate nod to street food vibes.

This fusion could draw younger demographics and music fans, enhancing The Met’s allure. Community ties, from sports clubs to markets, position Fratelli as a homegrown hit rather than an outsider import.

What Challenges Lie Ahead for Fratelli?

While buzz is high, the hospitality sector faces headwinds, as echoed in broader reports like odds-stacked closures elsewhere. Fratelli’s indie status and pop-up validation mitigate risks, but sustaining footfall post-launch will test the team. Venue symbiosis with The Met offers a buffer, tying meals to events.​

Neutral observers note the sentimental handover from Automatic could foster goodwill, aiding early traction.

In Bury, this story encapsulates transition: farewell to a 20-year stalwart, hello to pizza innovation. As Fratelli fires up ovens, it reaffirms independent spirit in Greater Manchester’s food scene.