Rating: 4.3 ★ (2174 ratings)
The slow-risen sourdough, crafted daily on site and proven for 20 hours, forms the heart of Franco Manca's appeal on George Street. This traditional Neapolitan pizza is blast-cooked at 500°C for just 40 seconds, a process ensuring the flavour, aroma, and moisture are perfectly sealed into a chewy, tangy, and crunchy crust. Situated conveniently in Oxford's city centre near the university, shops, and theatres like the Oxford Playhouse, it’s a popular spot for academics, locals, and tourists alike, whether for a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the pizzaioli at work, stretching dough and adding vibrant, fresh ingredients to pizzas that recall an authentic taste of Italy.
Inside, the restaurant offers a bright, rustic, and charming interior with modern wooden features, complemented by a mirror wall and hanging lights that create a spacious yet intimate vibe. The atmosphere is consistently described as friendly, warm, and welcoming, making it suitable for casual dates, family meals, or gatherings with friends. While the menu focuses predominantly on a select range of pizzas, ensuring high quality, it also features daily specials and a variety of starters like garlic bread and burrata. Prices are generally considered reasonable, appealing to a student budget without compromising on the quality or the dining experience. To accompany your meal, a selection of organic wines and craft beers is available.
Monday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM; Tuesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM; Wednesday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM; Thursday: 12:00 – 10:00 PM; Friday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM; Saturday: 12:00 – 10:30 PM; Sunday: 12:00 – 9:00 PM
+44 1865 570068
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This is not your typical pizza, the crust is thin, but it’s not crispy. I think it is probably made the way they serve it.. So my thoughts are that this is the way most people like it. I would prefer mine to be less like a soft pita bread and a little crispy. I’m not complaining about the food because it was very tasty and somewhat of an artisan pizza.
I do want to comment on an added service charge. It wasn’t very much and when I received the bill, the waiter said there was a service charge and wanted to know if it was all right. It was only after I paid it that I saw closer on the bill that it was an option. I’m not complaining. I’m just explaining. I would have preferred. It being explained a little better.