Manny’s Pizza Deli, Newcastle

I was very kindly invited along to the launch of Manny’s Pizza Deli as they plan to bring New York pizza to the heart of Newcastle. Owner Olly Henderson is the man behind Capology, another Newcastle business, and soon plans to open the doors on two more Manny’s outlets.

Slap bang opposite Zapatista on Ridley Place, Manny’s occupies 2 floors of prime foody property. Upstairs is very much geared up to speed; grabbing a quick slice for lunch, while downstairs is a seating area more suited to a slower pace.

I was initially worried about the seating upstairs as I wouldn’t want to eat a starter, slice and salad perched at a bar stool but there is something for everyone! I can see this being a great hit with City Hall visitors wanting something quick and filling before a show, especially as you can grab a beer or wine with your slice!

With prices around the £3.50 mark,  diners are treated to huge slices of wafer thin bases, fresh crushed tomato sauce and fresh toppings. The names of the pizzas continue with the New York theme, with the likes of The Staten Island (Piccante peppers, roast chicken, chorizo, roast peppers, mozzarella sauce and basil), The Brooklyn (Ricotta, parmesan, pesto and fresh basil (no tomato sauce) and The Meatpacking (Pepperoni, sausage, meatballs, bacon, Grana Padano, mozzarella and marinara sauce) – named after my favourite area of Manhattan.

For all the pizza was good, for me it just lacked something. It didn’t hit the mark to be real New York pizza but good nevertheless – maybe once you have the best of what NY can offer, it spoils you.

The staff and clients are achingly hip and trendy which really makes Manny’s the place to be and to be seen. For convenience, speed and uniqueness, I truly hope Manny’s does well and thrives.