Connecticut's Iconic Pizza: Comedian Jared Freid Reviews Frank Pepe's Manchester Branch

Connecticut's Iconic Pizza: Comedian Jared Freid Reviews Frank Pepe's Manchester Branch MANCHESTER, CT – Comedian Jared Freid recently took to the streets of Manchester, Connecticut, on what he dubbed a "pizza walk" to visit the local branch of Frank Pepe's Pizzeria Napoletana, a celebrated Connecticut institution. Freid documented his journey, offering humorous observations on the town's commercial landscape, which he described as resembling "a museum of the early 2000s" due to its array of familiar chain stores. Upon arriving at Frank Pepe's, Freid expressed initial skepticism about the location, noting its roadside appearance differed from the original, more traditional establishments. However, his reservations quickly dissipated upon entering, where he was greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly baked pizza and the sight of the restaurant's brick oven. Freid ordered his preferred combination: mushroom, onion, and pepperoni, requesting it "well-done" for an extra crispy crust. He praised the pizza's authentic, slightly misshapen appearance and its homemade feel, likening it to something from "a grandma's kitchen." He highlighted the distinct textures of each slice, with some featuring more pepperoni and others more onion, and appreciated the perfect balance of a crunchy crust and a slightly soft middle. The comedian also lauded the restaurant's practice of providing all pizza condiments, such as Parmesan cheese and garlic powder, readily available on the table, eliminating the need for customers to request them. Freid concluded his review by enthusiastically endorsing the pizza, stating it retained the "Frank Pepe flavor" he remembered and was "just as good" as the original.