From paella’s Catalan sibling to Hollywood-style octopus and THE best pudding - don’t miss out on these
Need some dining inspiration? We’ve got you covered, with four of our favourite dishes to try this weekend.
From fine dining to casual eats, Catalan debuts to THE best pudding, miss at your peril…
Mackerel at The Rabbit (tasting menu)
Ponzu cured mackerel and tart pickled green strawberries are trapped under black squid ink netting in this distinctive dish, accompanied by black sesame ice cream. Part of The Rabbit’s multi-course tasting menu, this is fine dining at its finest. Go on, treat yourself…
The Rabbit
For fine dining that’s out of this world, set your sights high and head for The Rabbit. Sat atop the futuristic Urbis building in the heart of Manchester, it offers a stunning setting and progressive culinary experience headed by acclaimed chef John Granaghan.
The Rabbit, Urbis Building, Corporation Street, M4 3BG
Caramel tart at Mr Cooper’s (£6)
Our Deanna Thomas counts this amongst the top three desserts in Manchester - some feat. Expect ‘the glossy chestnut sheen of a prize-winning stallion, texture as silky smooth as a luxury body lotion…and a case so thin and crispy it’s probably been made overnight in a workshop by magical pixies.’
Mr Cooper's
Its setting may be the iconic Midland Hotel but Mr Cooper's is relaxed and informal; known for inspired yet unfussy food that gives local ingredients a global edge. The award-winning cocktail menu isn’t to be sniffed at either…
Mr Cooper’s, Peter Street, M60 2DS
Arros de calamar at Tast (£29.50)
The Catalan version of paella, this seafood sharer - designed for two people - includes juicy red prawns, squid and a hint of codium mayo. It looks like an abstract painting and tastes just as impressive. Top tip: squeeze the prawn’s head over the dish - the brain juice gives it extra flavour.
Tast
The new restaurant and bar from Michelin-starred chef Paco Pérez, Tast is fast gaining attention for its Catalan cuisine: from ‘tastets’ (an inventive tapas alternative) to charcuterie and creative desserts. Informal and friendly, despite its pedigree, Tast offers high-quality dining in a relaxed setting.
Tast, 20-22 King Street, M2 6AG
LA grilled octopus at The Pen and Pencil
It may be more casual than the others but The Pen & Pencil still pulls a punch when it comes to great grub - this tender charred octopus being a prime example. Served with fried lotus root, green and yellow courgette, wasabi foam and red tobiko, it’s one of our favourite dishes at the Northern Quarter stalwart.
The Pen & Pencil
Brunch, lunch, cocktails, good times - that pretty much sums up The Pen & Pencil. This New York-style hangout spans the indulgent likes of philly subs and fluffy pancakes to lighter dishes such as roasted hake and lentil stew. It has a packed social calendar too.
The Pen & Pencil, Fourways House, 57 Hilton Street, M1 2EJ
