Franco Manca Trafford Centre

Franco Manca - Manchester Trafford brings a slice of southern Italian spirit to Stretford, where the spotlight falls squarely on beautifully blistered sourdough and the easy pleasures of aperitivo. It is a place that prizes simplicity and balance: bright tomatoes, good mozzarella, and a glass that invites conversation before the first bite.

Small plates and sharing boards set the tone. Think grilled artichoke with butternut squash, Kalamata olives and semi-dried tomatoes, or a neat sweep of charcuterie with rocket and cheeses. From the oven, pizza bread brushed with rosemary and garlic arrives alongside burrata kissed with truffle oil, ready to be torn, dipped and passed around.

The main act is unmistakable. Classic pies like the marinara and margherita celebrate clean flavours, while basil pesto and garlic dips lend a leisurely swagger. Salads keep things fresh with an artichoke and butternut squash medley or a caprese of baby plum tomatoes and mozzarella. To finish, cheesecake or a chocolate and hazelnut cake keep sweet company with Italian wines, a Negroni, or homemade organic lemonade. An Aperol Spritz makes the moment sing.

Casual, convivial and built for lingering, this is a spot for unhurried bites and better sips. Pull up a chair, order something simple done superbly, and let the sourdough set the pace. Book a table and follow your appetite—good times, nicely risen.