Mano
Espresso in Glebe has recently been taken over by the lovely Tino &
Marie Pangallo who
personally create a friendly atmosphere, with speedy service to boot!
Tino, having previously been in the fireworks business (you know the
fantastic displays you see on
such occasions as New Years Eve on the Harbour Bridge?) was ready for
a change. Marie shares their
story about how Mano “grabbed them like a magnet”. It had
been a dream of Marie’s to own her own
business in the hospitality industry and when they came across Mano
it caught her eye. Marie’s sister
had given their son the nickname ‘Little Man’ but because
their daughter couldn’t pronounce that, she
called him ‘Mano’ - which stuck. So when they came across
Mano Espresso
in Glebe, they knew it
was the business for them.
This 45 (inside), and 10 (outside) seater is filled with natural light
and fresh air with a roof that’s almost
entirely made of skylights which can be opened and closed according
to the weather ... a very nice touch
indeed which allows for a really expansive and comfortable feel.
You’ll catch Tino at the coffee machine whipping up delicious
Campos Coffees
while chatting with the
regulars, and Marie "on the floor" (vertically at least) satisfying
the grumbling brunchtime bellies of their
enthusiastic clientele. The
menu offers a great range of quick and super tasty Toasted Pide
Sandwiches,
Soups and Salads, some great breakfasts including their Housemade Baked
Beans, the attractive and
moreish Yoghurt Muesli Parfait, and also a selection of sweet treats
– friands, brownies &
cookies to enjoy with your coffee.
If
you're looking to experience more of this dynamic duo's culinary heritage
then don't go past the
Arancini, which is traditional Sicilian saffron rice balls with a savoury
centre (ragu - bolognese & mozzarella,
or spinach & ricotta) or go for the freshest Bruschetta in Sydney
(see pic above-right) - classy trad-Italian
food that's just soooo moist & great for you too. Or for something
not too far from their culture, they do an
absolutely perfect Spanakopita
(pictured top-right), not quite the national dish of Greece but close
to it.
Beyond the piping-hot beverages that Mano Espresso does so well? Well,
you must try an iced coffee
made with real Campos Coffee, or the delectable and cute Piccolo Affogato
(they have the standard size too).
You’ll also find a range of organic Phoenix drinks, Italian sodas,
and also fresh juices. Or for absolute hot
weather bliss - gelato in all colours ...
More good things to come early in 2009, Mano will be sporting a Liquor
Licence so you’ll be able
to enjoy an afternoon wine or beer - Italian style!
So go along and say a big hello to Tino and Marie. You’ll find
Mano open 6 days a week: 7am to 3pm
Monday to Friday, and 7am to 4:30pm Saturday, and you’ll most
likely feel right at home.
- Tiffani Brennan.
www.manoespresso.com
 
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