Since it was National Pizza Day on Thursday, I thought it only right I share some pizza porn. And seriously who doesn't love to look at pizza?! I mean, the only thing better than that, is actually eating it. So back at the end of last year Central Oven & Shaker opened and there was a buzz in the air on opening night - (prepare yourself for a photo heavy post.) I had a day of meetings so I was well and truly ready to let my hair down.
On approaching the venue, it was unmistakable this was where we needed to be. Fun pink neon wins me over almost every time. Located opposite Central Station, this neon really does set it apart from its city grey surroundings. And by 5:30pm the place was already mad busy. Myself and Zoe found our bearings, grabbed a seat (which was difficult) and got to our first drinks of the night. Prosecco. Obviously. We waited for fellow blogger, Ruth to arrive and more drinks circulated whilst patiently waiting for our table. I'm not sure which drinks were which but they sure looked pretty against the carrara marble bar tops.
It was a bit hectic trying to get seated for a table (everyone wanting to get in on the pizza goodness, and who can blame them?!) We were lead to our table on the upstairs level, which overlooks the downstairs bar and kitchen. Basically the best spot for people watching.
Once the food started arriving to our table, I was quickly distracted from the people watching to swooning over food! The first dishes to hit the table were salads (the prettiest I've seen up close to date), and antipasti boards. Fresh crunchy leaves, sprinkled with flashes of purple in the form of edible flowers and feta, the olives, meats and cheeses. Spending a lot of my childhood visiting a Mediterranean country, these starters made for a happy blogger!
Next to hit the table was the much anticipated Central pizza. Stone baked, freshly made in their kitchen. With no previous other chains or association, we really didn't know what to expect. However, this pizza did not let us down! Thin crust (my fave) covered in delicious, stringy cheese and a selection of flavoursome toppings.
There are so many new places opening recently and with a plethora of chains and pizza shops its hard to know where really gets pizza right. Stone baking makes all the difference and you can really taste the authenticity in these pizzas. Hand thrown dough right in their kitchen, fresh produce and stone baked in fire heated ovens. That makes good pizza.
Pizza kept on coming and we kept on eating. A selection of toppings including veggie options, and with very attentive serving staff keeping our drinks topped up I felt very content in the teams hands. Food, drinks, service. Restaurant success 101.
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| Caio, Reggie Cocktail |
With full stomachs after our Neapolitan feast... we headed down stairs to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. (And of course, observe the interiors because I'm a little obsessed with that kinda thing with my creative brain.) The art deco details are unmistakable fused with industrial features like the lighting & exposed ceiling.
Just when we thought we were done with the indulging, more drinks circulated the room. Gingerbread cocktails (among other flavours), cotton candy prosecco... Safe to say the Central team aint' afraid to think outside the box in regards to menu choices. And with pizza ranging from £7 - £12, you can hardly complain about extortionate prices for passionate food. I'm pretty sure the menu has been expanded since the launch now offering breakfast pizzas among other unusual unique options. I have called in for lunch recently too. Same service, same good food. Need to head back to test out the carbonara pizza - I'm a total sap for creamy based pasta dishes but yet to try it on pizza! Central also offer a range of Italian themed desserts from tiramisu to gelato. Although we didn't get a chance to try on their launch I'd be interested to hear if the live up to the starters and mains.
Whether you're looking for somewhere to head for a quick but quality lunch, after work drinks or a meal for 2 then Central Oven is your hook up. Love to eat pizza? You can also become a Central patriot with a Playdough card and get rewarded for repeat visits. In a prime location on Neville Street, easy to find and a fun but chilled vibe, you've got to give this place a try!
Until next time...
X
