THE SECOND the clock reached 11 a.m., I hopped in my car and began my trek toward what is perhaps the most coveted pizza in Manchester. Clearly, the community loves it as much as I did since business always seems booming for the tiny pizza trailer at its current temporary location in the parking lot of Southern Family Markets.
This is one of those small businesses that make it worth taking the risk of items being sold out and showing up whenever hunger strikes. However, for those who prefer a more structured approach, the convenience of the online ordering system is a game changer. Due to its popularity, you would benefit from paying and ordering in advance (like I did).
As I neared my destination, the excitement grew, and I contemplated the lemonade selection by narrowing it down to three: regular, passionfruit, or mango. I had preordered already, but the anticipation of pairing my pizza with the perfect citrus refreshment heightened my enthusiasm. These thoughts were interrupted as the scent of bread and melted cheese immediately hit me when I stepped out of the car and stood in front of the retro-esque kitchen on wheels.
The truck’s signage, painted with meticulous attention to detail, featured a whimsical mix of sleek fonts and eye-catching graphics. Walking up to the window, I was greeted warmly by its owners and the box on my lap. This homestyle pizza was rich and hearty, with a thick crust and bountiful toppings. The sliced red onions provided just enough bite, the pepperoni enough crunch, and the bacon the saltiness that would shine atop the fluffy dough and layers of gooey cheese.
Next was the quintessential refresher: lemonade. This timeless beverage — born from a simple combination of lemons, water, and sugar — packed a punch of zesty sweetness from the first sip. The lightness of the drink was welcome after every bite of the pizza, almost cleansing the palate with each sip.
Overall, the magic of pizza lies not just in its taste but also in its ability to bring people together. From bustling pizzerias to homemade creations, Giambatistta’s love for pizza knows no bounds. GN