I recently had the pleasure of dining at Franco Manca, and I must say, it was an enjoyable experience. Known for their authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, this popular restaurant lives up to its reputation. Here's my review of my visit.
Ambience: The restaurant had a cozy and rustic atmosphere with dim lighting and a pleasant buzz of conversations. The décor was simple yet tasteful, featuring wood accents and traditional Italian elements. The seating was comfortable, and the overall ambiance created a relaxed and welcoming vibe.
Service: The staff at Franco Manca were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They promptly greeted us upon arrival and guided us through the ordering process. Our server provided helpful recommendations and was quick to assist with any requests or inquiries. The service was efficient, and our food arrived in a timely manner.
Food: The highlight of the dining experience at Franco Manca was undoubtedly the pizza. Each pizza was freshly baked in their wood-fired oven, resulting in a perfect balance of crispy crust and soft, chewy dough. The ingredients used were of high quality, and the flavors were vibrant and authentic. The menu offers a variety of traditional and creative toppings, and I appreciate their focus on using organic and locally sourced ingredients. I particularly enjoyed their specials, which showcased the simplicity and deliciousness of the Neapolitan style.
Price: The prices at Franco Manca are reasonable, considering the quality of the food and the overall dining experience. While not the cheapest pizzeria in town, it offers good value for the money spent. The portion sizes were generous, and the prices were comparable to other similar establishments.
Overall Experience: Franco Manca is a solid choice for pizza enthusiasts looking for an authentic Neapolitan experience. The combination of the cozy ambiance, friendly service, and mouthwatering pizzas made for an enjoyable evening. However, it is worth noting that the restaurant can get quite busy, and there might be a wait during peak hours. It is advisable to make a reservation or plan accordingly to avoid any inconvenience.
In conclusion, I highly recommend Franco Manca to anyone craving delicious Neapolitan-style pizza. Whether you're a fan of classic toppings or looking to try something unique, their menu has something to satisfy every palate. Just be prepared for a potentially busy atmosphere and allow some extra time if visiting during peak hours....
Read moreI recently had the pleasure of dining at France Manca in Southampton, and it was an absolute culinary delight! This authentic pizzeria brings the flavors of France to the heart of Southampton.
From the moment I entered, I was greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant had a charming and rustic ambiance, with cozy seating and a relaxed vibe. It was the perfect setting to enjoy a meal with friends or family.
The star of the show, of course, was the pizza. France Manca truly knows how to craft exceptional pies. The crust was thin and crispy, with a wonderful chewy texture. The toppings were fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully selected. It was evident that high-quality ingredients were used, as each bite burst with authentic French flavors.
I appreciated the variety of toppings and combinations available on the menu. From classic margherita to unique creations featuring local ingredients, there was something to satisfy every palate. The option to customize your own pizza allowed for a truly personalized dining experience.
The service at France Manca was top-notch. The staff members were friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They provided helpful recommendations and ensured that every guest felt well taken care of. The service was efficient, without compromising on the quality of the dining experience.
In addition to their fantastic pizzas, France Manca also offered a selection of delicious sides and salads. The sides were the perfect accompaniment to the main course, and the salads were fresh and well-dressed, adding a refreshing element to the meal.
The prices at France Manca were reasonable, considering the quality and portion sizes. It's worth noting that they also offer vegetarian and vegan options, catering to a variety of dietary preferences.
In conclusion, France Manca in Southampton is a hidden gem for those seeking authentic French pizza. The combination of exceptional flavors, cozy ambiance, and excellent service makes it a must-visit for any pizza lover. I highly recommend indulging in their delectable creations and experiencing the taste of France right in the heart of...
Read moreTo begin with, let's just say that the pizza you will eat here is not an Italian pizza.
Let me repeat: the pizza you will eat here is NOT an Italian pizza.
I am Italian and I also make homemade pizza. I can 100% guarantee that both the ingredients and the recipe they use for the dough is not even close to what you can eat in Italy or even in my own house.
The dough was tasteless, salt-less, soggy and rubbery. The tomato sauce appeared patchy, and the pizza seemed to lack olive oil entirely. To add to the insult, they were also very stingy with the toppings.
It is truly unbelievable to me that they sell this pizza as a sourdough Neapolitan pizza and that they have an Italian-sounding name and brand.
Have you guys ever been to Napoli? Have you even tried a REAL Neapolitan pizza like they make it in Napoli? If you did, you wouldn't dare call what you make here a Neapolitan pizza.
Furthermore, enjoying the meal in peace proved very difficult. The staff immediately asked us if the pizza was OK before we even took the first bite (?). They approached us way too many times while we were chewing to ask again the same question, which I found frustrating. Finally, they kept on trying to take our plates at least 3 times before we finished eating. I know it's controversial, but some people don't eat all in one go, and maybe they are relaxing in between bites to chat or drink.
I personally won't set foot in this place again. But, as an act of good will towards the city of Southampton, I would be happy to invite the chefs at Franco Manca over to my house, where I can show them (free of charge) how to make a real Neapolitan pizza. Please get in touch with me to arrange a...
Read more