As we transition from summer to the cooler autumn and winter months, there's a wealth of activities in Greater Manchester to keep us engaged. One silver lining to the colder weather is the abundance of restaurants, bars, and cafes where we can find solace.
In the previous month, we indulged in sumptuous pasta dishes at Louis, sampled Vietnamese street food from Hop, and enjoyed an array of steaks and chops at Blacklock - yet our appetite for more remains unsatiated. Luckily, there's much more to anticipate in the coming weeks and months.
The consistent flow of new openings persists, and this month will witness the launch of a fresh smashed burger concept in the Northern Quarter, Detroit-style pizza from the team behind Diecast, and a plethora of Spanish cuisine from a Basque-style restaurant opening near the Town Hall. Also making a late September entrance are fine-dining options from the team at Rochdale Town Hall's new site and vegan versions of classic junk food at the revamped Wholesome Junkies.
Detroit Slims - Oxford Road
Detroit Slims, a 'quick-service' pizza restaurant, is another exciting addition to Oxford Road's Circle Square neighbourhood this autumn. The team behind popular city centre spots Diecast and Ramona are the brains behind this venture.
The restaurant, inspired by Manchester's 'twin city', will offer 10-inch long rectangle-shaped pizzas for takeaway or dine-in, starting from £5. Diners can also look forward to an array of dips including Kimchi Mayo, Hot Honey, and Dill and Jalapeno Ranch.
El Kabron - Manchester City Centre
El Kabron, a new tapas bar, is set to open in Manchester City Centre by the end of September. This cheeky, rebel sibling to the acclaimed Spanish restaurant La Bandera, draws inspiration from Spanish taverns.
It will occupy the unit previously held by Bowlers, which recently closed down.
Expect a taste of Basque cuisine at this new dining spot, where pintxo - small appetisers similar to tapas - will be served alongside takeaway sandwiches, cured meats and tapas. Drinks on offer include beers, sangria and cocktails.
Super Awesome Deluxe - Northern Quarter
Although the team behind Almost Famous recently said goodbye to their Withington location, they're fortunately gearing up to unveil a new smashed burger concept in the Northern Quarter this October, reports .
Super Awesome Deluxe, a fast order takeaway burger joint, is set to open at the former Lono Cove cocktail bar site on Thomas Street. The owner, Beau, has collaborated with renowned local butcher Lee "Frosty" Frost to ensure the perfect blend for their burgers. They plan to serve limited numbers each day to maintain quality.
MUSU Collection - Manchester City Centre
MUSU Collection is set to make a comeback in Manchester City Centre after a summer hiatus. The high-end Japanese restaurant and nightlife venue, which first opened its doors on Bridge Street in 2022, will return under a new identity.
MUSU Collection will feature three unique dining experiences, starting with KAJI, set to launch this October. The new venture promises 'advanced' grilling techniques paired with 'bold' flavours.
The revamped space will also host MUSU Miyabi, led by new chef-patron Steven Smith, and MUSU Theatre of Omakase, under the guidance of executive sushi chef Andre Aguiar. Diners can register for reservations once they become available in the coming weeks via the KAJI website, and updates will be posted on their Instagram page.
Wholesome Junkies - Northern Quarter
Wholesome Junkies, a popular vegan eatery in the Northern Quarter, sadly shut its doors earlier this year. However, founder Chelsea Campbell recently announced that she's not quite finished yet.
Wholesome Junkies will make a comeback in the heart of the Northern Quarter, taking up residence at Manchester's only alcohol-free bar, Hinterland.
Hinterland, a hidden gem located beneath the Buddhist Centre, will be offering alcohol-free beverages. Meanwhile, Wholesome Junkies will serve popular dishes such as burgers and fries, including their renowned Phish and Chips, in addition to an express lunch menu and weekend brunch options.
The venue will operate from Tuesday to Sunday during Hinterland's regular opening hours.
The Martlet Kitchen - Rochdale
Over a decade ago, Rochdale was known as one of the few towns in Greater Manchester where McDonald's could not thrive. A 2011 article in The Guardian highlighted how the only chain in the town centre had closed down, marking another setback for its struggling high street.
However, the town is undergoing a transformation. Alongside a new McDonald's, a high-end restaurant is set to open this weekend within the Grade II-listed Town Hall, aiming to put the borough on the culinary map.
The Martlet Kitchen, named after a mythical bird symbolising continuous effort, will be headed by Executive Chef Darren Parkinson, who will blend Northern classics with a fine-dining twist.
In addition to dishes such as the Jacksons Rag Pudding and a Bacon Chop with Bury Black Pudding, its daytime menu, available weekdays from 10am to 4pm, will include classic brunches like steak and eggs and eggs benedict with smokehouse salmon, as well as traditional afternoon tea. A 'grab and go' section will also be available for quick lunches, featuring freshly-made poke bowls.
Coming soon....
Nichi - Trafford Centre
The Trafford Centre will welcome Nichi, a new high-end restaurant offering a fusion of Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, this autumn. Located within the shopping centre's newly-refurbished Upper Orient, the 3,000 sq ft restaurant will serve sushi, Wagyu, and tableside flambe.
The Manchester-based brand, which boasts a seasoned team including former Sexyfish and Nobu head chef Kentaro Yanagisawa, is set to open its first restaurant. The venue will feature resident DJs and an Omakase tasting menu.
Hello Oriental - Trafford Centre
Hello Oriental, the popular street-food hall that first opened off Oxford Road in 2022, is set to open another branch at Trafford Centre's Upper Orient. This marks the brand's first º£½ÇÊÓƵ shopping centre location for their second site, promising its 'trademark street food dining concept', with over 100 delicious dishes on offer.
Patrons can look forward to a variety of East Asian dishes, including Dim Sum, Cantonese roast meats and curries.
Kallos Cafe and Wine Bar - Salford
A new Greek cafe and wine bar is set to open in Salford. Kallos Cafe and Wine Bar, offering a 'Mediterranean twist' on classic dishes and charcuterie boards, will be located in the new Cortland development at Colliers Yard, nestled between Trinity Way and Deansgate.
Hospitality veterans Ioanna Antoniou and Ivan Milchev are behind the venture, which will serve a daytime brunch menu featuring traditional pastries and savoury pies like Spanakopita and Tiropita, along with freshly made in-house pita bread. The evening menu will include meze, small dishes, signature Greek salads, and a broad selection of Greek and Mediterranean wines.
The Trading Route - St John's
Trof, Wandering Palate and Manchester Union have collaborated to open a 3,500 square feet venue, The Trading Route, in St John's. Situated just off Deansgate and a short walk from Spinningfields, it offers cold beer, hot chicken, and locally-sourced provisions.
It's the perfect spot for post-work pints and meals made from locally sourced ingredients. Keep an eye out for its opening in Autumn 2024.
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