Croma Restaurant

Manchester’s best-known pizza indie has spawned franchises in Chorlton, Prestwich, Leeds & Boston (Massachusetts, not Lincolnshire), but the original city location is still packing ‘em in over two & a half floors. Airy & bright, its democratic air is a result of the no-booking policy (large groups excepted) & fast turnaround time. Pizza Express customers won’t be surprised by classics including blistering garlic bread & soundly executed pizzas such as the Florentina (spinach, egg, olives), but house specials involve a smattering of local ingredients (Garstang Blue cheese, for example) & feature some heretical but rather good toppings including smoked haddock or Peking duck. Service is swift & functional, with the odd smile, & kids are made especially welcome.