North West lifestyle magazine YQ has given Il Forno a glowing review in one of its recent editions.
Hayley Leaver, the publication’s deputy editor, describes the Duke Street eatery as having ‘a delightful family environment and effortless style that sits perfectly with its à la carte, pizzeria and deli offerings.”
The review reads: “Praised by the king of pasta himself, Antonio Carluccio, Il Forno prides itself on its authentic Italian cooking and it doesn’t disappoint with its Helios-inspired pizza oven providing the perfect cuisine and cooking demonstration for its guests.
“Selecting our starters from the evening menu, I opted for the Brushetta Classica (£3.50), which, if a little garlicky for my taste, was beautifully presented and generously portioned. My guest’s Parma ham with buffalo Mozzarella (£5.95) was similarly much more than an appetiser in size and taste.
“With Chef Vito Rosa recently crowned ‘Winner of the International Pizza Making Championship 2007’ my choice of main was easy. With a packet of Parma ham never too far from my side, there was no other choice but the Pizza Italiana (£8.50), a delicious, if not daunting, mix of cherry tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, rocket and my elixir, Parma ham. After 20 minutes of intense eating and no signs of the white porcelain beneath, I eventually succumbed to my guest’s eager pleas and provided the perfect complement to his delectable Spaghetti Alla Carbonara (£7.25).
“Minutes later and he too defeated, the waiter abated my appeals for help with a dessert menu. Not quite what I wanted but not one to disappoint and salivating at the prospect of an offering from the gelateria, I gallantly shared an Affogato al Cioccolato (£4.25) with my guest. The Stacciatella ice cream served with a garnish of whipped cream and miniature jug of hot chocolate sauce was delicious and genuinely worth the gastrobypass.
“Offering possibly the best pizza this side of Pisa, Il Forno is a must-visit and will have Carluccio nervously clutching his crown.”
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