It may seem silly to go out for a pizza that costs half the price of the Brighton to London train fare that got you there, but Franco Manca is worth travelling for. I still struggle with the fact that good pizza the UK is as rare as an ice cube in the Sahara and am planning on building a pizza oven in my back garden in sheer exasperation. Still, pizza is a passion for me and until my oven is built, search I shall continue.
Tucked away in Brixton Market, next to a fish stall, you wait patiently in a long line for a few sacred tables, being unceremoniously ushered, hollered at and ordered to move, stay still or sit. Woof! You avoid oncoming pedestrians, market deliveries and an unhinged man shouting something indecipherable at the top of his voice. Heck, you may as well be in Naples! And then you are finally rewarded with a seat, a very fine drink (Samuel Smith's Organic larger as I hear the vino isn't up to much) and a plate of circular heaven.
The 20 hour minimum, slowly risen sourdough base is thin and terrifically aerated and chewy. The wood burning oven used to quickly zap the pizzas is smokily evident, adding to the flavour. I went for a classic margarita as I really wanted to taste the base which is softer than you would expect but folds and eats beautifully. I really liked the way the grassy olive oil pooled into the centre and the sauce was perfect in taste and quantity.
As we were a group of six, sharing enabled us to try pretty much everything on the brief menu. Tomato, two types of chorizo (dried and semi-dried) and mozzarella:
Tomato, garlic, oregano, capers, olives, mozzarella and about the best anchovies I have ever tried:
One of the specials that was too far down the table for me to nab a bit. I do love a sprinkling of peppery rocket on top of pizza!
All of which summoned up high praise, oohs and ahhs. Pizzas cost from £4.50 to £6.95, so all in you'd be hard pushed to spend £15 in all. The only thing I would like to see is some Italian beer and possibly San Pellegrino soft drinks, including the hard to come by Chino.
We left satisfied, kissed on both cheeks by a sweet little piece of Italy.
Franco Manca
4 Market Row
Electric Lane
Brixton
London SW9 8LD
http://www.francomanca.co.uk/
I love franco manca, I don't go enough. You were wise to stay off the wine, though it has been almost two years since I last tried it. Had an awesome white pizza with great mushrooms there not so long ago.
ReplyDeleteAhhh Fran, I've wanted to try Franco Manca for ages, but am hardly ever in that part of town with even less chance now I've moved to Bristol. One day. Looks superb.
ReplyDeleteWell, it might proved to have been worth the hype - but I'm betting that plenty of your blog readers will be eagerly awaiting news of your home-built pizza oven... ;) Keep us posted!
ReplyDelete@Lizzie So good - wish I lived closer but would def take the time out to go up again soon.
ReplyDelete@Dan Che peccato! One day, one day...
@aforkful Oh yes! Plans have been drawn and once the house is finished the garden starts. Hopefully in the spring. Wonder if Franco Manca do internships??
Have heard that it was good there but never thought I could be bothered to make the trip to visit - but after your post, I will now. Looks amazing!
ReplyDeleteGlad you liked it.
ReplyDeleteThe wine is actually very good and great value. It is made by an Organic producer in Piemonte and bottled for Franco Manca Brixton and Chiswick.It has been available since December of last year.
It's just brilliant isn't it. You should have given me a shout though, I'm only around the corner ;)
ReplyDelete@Sharon Yes do it!
ReplyDelete@Gastro1 Ah, they must have changed it - thanks for the heads up. Still, I'm one for beer and pizza tradition!
@Helen - Ahhh! Next time I will!! Would be lovely to meet. Oh, and lucky you to be close - grr.
Always good to find great pizza. I love your shot of the empty plate - it speaks volumes!
ReplyDeleteHave eaten at Brixton, Stratford and Chiswick; most recently as a family group of 8, more often than not on my own or with a friend. Every time the food and drinks have been fantastic; my favourite London eatery. I really hope expansion or change of ownership do not dilute the Franco Manca experience, as has happened with other restaurant chains.
ReplyDelete