A few weeks ago we made a highly anticipated first visit to Hot Igloo in Glengormley. There had been a lot of hype on social media about it and we were keen to see what all the fuss was about, not to mention Ireland’s largest wood fired pizza oven!
First impressions were great. We were met by a friendly staff member who showed us to our booth on the raised upper deck where we ordered drinks while deciding what to eat. For starters I ordered the wings, whilst my wife opted for the Bruschetta. Our daughter Izzie ordered the kids meal which consisted of pizza, a fruit shoot and ice-cream for dessert.
Once our order was in, Izzie was invited up to make her own pizza with the help of the chef. This is a great little treat for kids and our daughter loved every minute of it. Our starters came out just as Izzie’s pizza was ready so we all headed back to our table to get stuck in.
I must say I have been a lover of wings ever since my first trip to New York a couple of years ago, and these were by far the best I’ve had this side of the Atlantic! They were big and meaty with a deliciously spicy yet crispy coating, and the blue cheese dip which came with them was the perfect accompaniment. I didn’t pay much attention to the Bruschetta as I was enjoying the wings so much, but I’m told that it was very good.
Over in the kids section (of our table) Izzie loved the pizza, claiming it was the “best pizza in the history of the world ever” so it was clearly a winner in her eyes.
Next up were the mains. My wife ordered the Giardiniera Pizza which comes topped with roasted Mediterranean vegetables, buffalo mozzarella, rocket and pesto. She enjoyed it and would order again. I opted for the Igloo House Special pizza which is topped with slow cooked beef brisket, king prawns and cherry tomatoes – an unusual combination! Maybe a bit less spicy than I would usually order so I will definitely go for something with a bit more kick next time. I also had a side of skinny fries which were very good.
We didn’t really have much room left for dessert but decided to treat ourselves nonetheless – as you do! I had the Pavlova which was lovely but not on a par with my Granny’s famous creations but hit the spot rightly. My wife chose the Mint Aero cheesecake which was equally good, and Izzie had the kids ice-cream which she really enjoyed.
Overall Hot Igloo looks great, the staff are friendly, wings superb, pizzas good, portion sizes good, and it’s absolutely brilliant for kids especially as they get to make their own pizzas (the highlight of our visit). We will definitely be back to give it another go soon. 8.5/10.
Main Image: Izzie Knox gives the Hot Igloo a big Thumbs up!
To book give the Hot Igloo a call on 028 9083 3844
Review was carried out by The Knox Family. Stephen, Leona, Izzie (main pic) and Baby Caspar
Read the latest issue of Ulster Life Magazine online now!