Chris Herbert asks 'What's in a name?' and finds out the answer is more than he bargained for NOT content with making diners choose from a selection of pizzas, dozens of extra toppings and all the different sizes, customers at Deep Pan Pizza, in Cressex, also have a choice of different bases, with slightly different topping options on each one.

Thank goodness they don't serve stuffed crust ones to further complicate the issue.

I was verging on selecting a thin and crispy Italian version, but after much umming and aahing, I realised that, as I was reviewing the Deep Pan Pizza Company, it might be more appropriate to choose a thick one.

After a couple of bites into my six-piece ham, mushroom and pepperoni monster, I realised I had made the wrong choice.

Both the base and the cheese were heavy and stodgy, and the tomato sauce had a strong, bitter taste.

Having said that, there was a lot of topping, which was very evenly spread over the whole creation and, if I had been more of a deep pan fan, it probably would have been more enjoyable.

As it was, judging by the weight of my stomach after I had finished, I felt like I had eaten a couple of bricks.

If deep pans are to win my vote, the base needs to be crispier and more easily distinguishable from the topping.

What made it all the more galling was that the Italian, which my partner had, was apparently very nice with a good crispy base, lots of topping and not too heavy.

There was a very wide choice as far as the starter selection went, and the salad bar option was excellent.

It included a huge range of fruit and salad together with more unexpected food such as smoked mackerel and hard boiled eggs.

The deep fried mushrooms were also excellent, very tasty, hot and they were not too greasy either.

They also came with two pieces of garlic bread and a salad garnish.

This was superb value for money and the Deep Pan Pizza chefs obviously put a lot of thought and care into their starters.

The restaurant itself was clean and caught the sun very well. The staff were prompt, efficient and friendly.

I would give the Deep Pan Pizza Company a general thumbs up, but if I ever go back, I will certainly be going for the thin and crispy option. One portion of garlic mushrooms: £2.95

One side salad: £2.95

One thin pizza with onion, mushroom and green pepper with extra pepperoni: £6.75

One medium deep pan pizza with ham, mushroom and extra pepperoni: £8.35

One portion of vanilla and mint choc chip ice cream: £1.95

Drinks: £3.35

Total: £26.30

n This is an independent review. Quality of food: Excellent starter, mixed pizzas.

Quantity of food: Keeps you full for hours on end.

Value for money: Good, about what you would expect to pay.

Would you recommend it? Yes, very good for quick, easy and tasty food, but don't go for the deep pan unless you know you like them.

Deep Pan Pizza, Crest Road, High Wycombe (01494) 465 107

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