“Ah, you’re the food blogger.” Even before my blog goes live, my reputation precedes me.
But trumpet blowing aside, it is true that I returned to the Saracen’s Head. I had to. And hopefully so too shall you, dear reader. This 16th Century pub makes the most accurate pizzeria in the Coventry area.
Wood fired stone oven, crispy crust and terrific toppings make for an old round stunning pizza. OF course the Saracen’s head also makes other food, for those not inclined towards pizza. But the subject of this review shall focus on this dish.
I took my flatmates here for a celebratory dinner. The subject which we celebrated was not decided upon. The joy of being alive and sentient, I suppose. The original 16th century wooden beams have been kept in pristine condition.
Being students, we were keen to make the most of the weekday 2 for 1 pizzas before 7pm deal. Now, The Saracen’s Head has a choice of eight pizzas and we ordered six. There were five of us so we would each get one pizza and 1/5 each. We also had to make special provisions because one of my flatmates is vegan and another doesn’t eat beef.
So, with no further ado, I can reveal that we ordered the following pizzas:
Marinated buffalo mozzarella, mozzarella,
semi-dried tomatoes, basil (v)
Salami pepperoni, peppadew peppers,
green chillies, mozzarella, jalapeños
Prosciutto ham, semi-dried tomatoes,
mozzarella, caramelised pineapple
Spicy chilli chicken, peppadew peppers,
mozzarella, goat’s cheese, red onion
Garlic chestnut mushrooms,
smoked mozzarella, red onion jam,
rocket (v)
Chorizo ibérico, salami pepperoni,
beef ragu, mozzarella, prosciutto ham
Each pizza was more delicious than the last. The dough was superbly fine and crunchy, as a thin crust should be. The tomato sauce was perfect. While I object fervently to the mozzarella being grated over the Margarita, as opposed to sliced, overall the pizzas did not disappoint.
At this point there is something I must say: the Garlic chestnut mushrooms,
smoked mozzarella and red onion jam pizza was a home run, to quote my Texan flatmate. Seriously one of the most delicious pizzas I have ever eaten, and I have eaten an abundance in my time. I have eaten pizzas from here to Tokyo, and not many compare to this particular one for originality of ingredients, quality of dough and taste factor. If you try anything at this restaurant, let it be that pizza.
Overall, my flatmates and I were thoroughly impressed by the genuine warmth and great character of this restaurant. One wouldn’t have thought that pizza greatness in this on this scale could be found in a far corner of Balsall Common. But there you have it.
We couldn’t not suggest Ye Olde Saracen’s Head!