Franco Manca

Franco Manca is a UK-based pizzeria chain known for its sourdough pizza. The first Franco Manca restaurant was opened in 2008 in Brixton Market, London, by Giuseppe Mascoli and Bridget Hugo. The name "Franco Manca" translates to "Franco is missing" in Italian, a tribute to Franco, the original owner of the Brixton site.

History

Giuseppe Mascoli and Bridget Hugo, both passionate about traditional Neapolitan pizza, founded Franco Manca in 2008. The duo aimed to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza to London, using slow-rising sourdough for their bases and high-quality, locally sourced ingredients for their toppings.

In 2015, Franco Manca was acquired by the Fulham Shore group, which has since expanded the chain across the UK. Despite the expansion, the brand has maintained its commitment to quality and authenticity, with each restaurant's oven being built by artisans from Naples.

Menu

Franco Manca's menu is centered around its sourdough pizza, which is made using a slow-rising dough recipe that dates back to the start of the 18th century in Naples. The menu also includes a range of antipasti, salads, and desserts, all inspired by traditional Italian cuisine.

The pizza toppings change daily, reflecting the availability of seasonal ingredients. Franco Manca is also known for its vegan and gluten-free options, making it a popular choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Reception

Franco Manca has been widely praised for its authentic Neapolitan pizza. It has received numerous awards and accolades, including being named "Best Pizza in the UK" by the Observer Food Monthly in 2017.

See also

• List of pizza chains of the United Kingdom
• Neapolitan pizza
• Sourdough