Noelle Stabler
A friend and I recently decided to spend a Friday night enjoying a meal at the new Ann Arbor favorite Mani Osteria. This Italian eatery that opened in the spring of 2011 quickly became a hit, and is known for using local ingredients in its delectable dishes. Their genuine hospitality is something they pride themselves on and as we discovered that night, they certainly live up to their reputation. The service was impeccable: the wait staff was attentively ready to serve us and answer any questions we had about the menu. After deliberating for a while, we finally decided on “The Mix” for the appetizer, which featured a delicious array of cheese, meats, and olives. We opted for the gorgonzola and goat cheese, and prosciutto and salami. Alongside our appetizer, which also came with bread and a hearty mustard and sweet honey spread, each table is served flatbread crackers and a hummus spread to start with. After trying the various cheeses and meats, we then moved on to the “Prosciutto and Figs” salad. Trying to get our ʻgreensʼ in for the day, we figured this salad would be a good way to do so, and it certainly did not disappoint. The mix of baby spinach, gorgonzola, figs, prosciutto, and almonds was incredible. The contrast of the crunchy almonds and sweet figs was perfect, and the tangy yet fresh and light dressing that coated the crisp leaves of spinach was just right. Next came the pizza, which is Maniʼs specialty. We opted for the “Wild Mushroom and Ham” pizza. It was served atop an empty tomato can that lofts the pizza high enough in the air for each person sitting at the table to admire its beauty. When it arrived at our table we oooed and ahhed for a while before finally indulging. This pizza was exquisite. The crust was thin and warm, the smoked scarmorza, a type of mozzarella, was gooey and chewy in just the right ways. The wild mushrooms and ham were a great contrast to the cheesy goodness of the pizza, giving it a hearty and sophisticated taste. The light sprinkling of parmesan cheese was the perfect topping to this immaculate pizza. After indulging in about 3 pieces, I was perfectly content and felt like I had experienced everything this wonderful restaurant has to offer. True, the pizza may have seemed that much better to a college student used to late night Pizza House orders, but as someone who loves high quality food as well, this pizza and restaurant definitely delivered. While Mani isnʼt easy on the wallet, the quality of food and service you get for the price is well worth it.
