From corn dogs to cocktail bars, here's what we've spotted in the Manchester Food and Drink Scene this month...
NEW FACES
Honi Poke, Deansgate
Poki bowl pros, Honi Poke have expanded onto Deansgate with their fresh, healthy and flavourful poke bowls. Choose from veggie and vegan options or add sustainably caught fish or responsibly sourced chicken for some added protein. The main image above is of Honi Poke food.
Mr Su, Circle Square
Traditional Chinese dumpling restaurant, Mr Su has already had huge success in Leeds. So much so that they've decided to open a sister venue here in Manchester at the Circle Square complex on Oxford Road. Founder, Jimmy Su has over 25 years of experience working in Dubai, China and the UK, where he's developed his unique and secret recipes for broths, noodles and dumplings.
Stutter & Twitch, Stanley Square Sale
Frothing coffee and spinning vinyl are Stutter & Twitch. Following a successful stint in Altrincham's Stamford Quarter, the S&T crew have packed up their van and headed down to Sale to serve up a caffeine storm. Don't worry, you can still get your disco fix in Alty - just from their kiosk now instead.
UPCOMING OPENINGS
Bar Etna, Altrincham
TBC
Hoping to take over the former Snugworld Beds spot on Stamford New Road is Bar Etna, a Sicilian style bar. There's currently no news as to whether there will be food available on site.
Bunsik, Piccadilly Gardens
Summer
Already famed in London for their Korean corn dogs, Bunsik are heading up North to give the people of Manchester the fried sausages on a stick that we've all been dreaming of. The corn dog connoisseurs will be taking over a 2,000 square foot site at Piccadilly Gardens later this summer to serve up fried goods and desserts.
Canteena Bar & Grill, Sale
May
Canteena Bar & Grill will be taking over the former Sale Foodhall unit in Stanley Square. It's the brainchild of the pair who used to run The Bridge in Sale and No.1 Canal Street, Lisa Kettle and Danni Condron. The menu will lean heavily towards hearty, meaty dishes such as steaks and those similar to what was served at their previous ventures. The official opening date is pending.
Chi Yip, Altrincham
Spring
Altrincham is due to receive its very own Oriental supermarket right on Cross Street, in the site where Tim Hortons was for a short stint last year. With a site already open in Middleton and having traded in Manchester for over 40 years, the Altrincham addition to the Chi Yip family will stock Asian food staples, specials and delicacies.
Gail's Bakery, King Street TBC
Following the successful launch of their Wilmslow and Altrincham stores at the end of March, Gail's Bakery is growing again. Soon, you'll be able to get your fix of pastries, breads and sweet treats in the heart of Manchester.
Pray Tell, Stanley Square Sale
TBC
An exciting new bar comes to Stanley Square, the popular hospitality hub in Sale. Pray Tell will be taking over unit six where Draft bar once sat, they'll be serving up craft beers, natural wines and aperitif-style cocktails. Owners, Beth and Paul are veterans in the MCR food and drink scene, combining their years of knowledge and experience for this new venture. They hope to open as soon as possible.
The Stables Food Hall, Quay Street
TBC
A new venue is expected to open in the Old Granada Studios site, including a bar, restaurant and event space. The venue has been given a late night licence but isn't expected to open until later in the year.
CLOSURES
Batch Deli, Altrincham
Though they are just closing their kitchen and will still be slinging craft pints, its no less gutting for the guys at Batch Deli. Like many small businesses, Batch have had to make the difficult decision to close their kitchen due to running costs, but are determined to continue providing a friendly and welcoming place to drink quality booze in Altrincham.
Neon Tiger, Bridge Street
At the end of April a Bridge Street favourite, Neon Tiger, sadly closed its doors for the last time. The Thai restaurant shared a statement on their social media, thanking their loyal fans for their custom and hinting at the potential of seeing them again in the future, only 'in a different form'.
RESIDENCIES
Super Serve at Factory International, St Johns
Super Serve Manchester, a brand new collaboration between Solitaire Restaurants and Square one will be heading to the Factory International site to provide a 'unique and eclectic' catering offering. They will be previewing their food and drink at Manchester International Festival this summer ahead of the official opening of Factory International in October.
Okay, this one isn't strictly food and drink. But there will be an outdoor bar and food vendors to grab a bite to eat from as you 'ooh' and 'ahh' at the spectacular performances this Olivier award-winning entertainment show has to offer. Popping up for just six weeks from 25 May, La Clique is an unmissable dose of evening entertainment. Tickets are available here.
The Malibu Beach Club at Pong & Puck, Deansgate
Great Northern bar, Pong & Puck have teamed up with white rum brand Malibu to launch a pop-up beach club. Until 30 September, the terrace will be adorned with palm trees, beach vibes and frozen cocktails. Come rain or shine, happy hour will be available from 5-7pm.
NEW MENUS
BAB, Northern Quarter
BAB are back with a fresh new summer menu, combining Greek taverna holiday flavours with takeaway favourites. Choose from dishes like the lamb meatball kebab with tzatziki, feta and olives, or the pulled jackfruit with sticky BBQ sauce option for meaty mouthfuls without the guilt.
Piccolo by Piccolino, Manchester City Centre
Piccolo are launching their new menu this week. Expect more authentic and delicious Italian dishes, ideal for date nights, a bite to eat whilst shopping or simply just because.
Riva Blu, Corn Exchange
Riva Blu have just announced their new summer menu. Designed to combine the glamour of the Amalfi Coast with the edge of back street Naples, the menu boasts classic Italian dishes with a Mediterranean twist. Dishes include Italian staples like Linguine Vongole, Tuna Tartare and Gamberi Rossi.
Six by Nico, Manchester City Centre
Six by Nico are bringing back their beloved 'The Chippie' experience for a limited time to celebrate its six year anniversary. The six course menu will feature re-imagined chip shop classics along with the option to add on a themed wine pairing, snacks and aperitif. Available Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 23 May - 28 June.
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