We look at some of the runners and riders ahead of this year's ceremony at The Midland Hotel
Manchester is fast gaining a reputation for having some of the most exciting restaurants in the country. While it must be said that the city has spent more than its fair share of years (or even decades) out in the culinary cold, it seems its time may have finally come.
With Ancoats' mana the only restaurant in Greater Manchester currently boasting a much-coveted Michelin Star, there's hope one new recipient (or maybe more) could be added to the list come Monday evening's ceremony at The Midland Hotel.
So let's have a look through some of the runners and riders hoping to catch (or keep) a star.
mana (*)
Where: 42 Blossom Street, Ancoats, M4 6BF
What they say: "Extracts from an iconic corner in Ancoats. Perpetually created by Simon Martin"
What Michelin says: "The personality and experience of chef-owner Simon Martin shine brightly at this stylish, modern restaurant, where every one of the well-spaced tables has a view of the kitchen. British produce leads the way, including plenty of seafood because, as Simon puts it, 'we live on an island'."
What we said
Erst
Where: Murray Street, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6HS, United Kingdom
What they say: "Our menu is a collection of small plates designed for sharing, the dishes change depending on what's in season and the quality of the produce available."
What Michelin says: "A modern, industrial-style wine bar run by a group of friends, laid-back Erst offers something refreshingly different in the city. It specialises in natural, low-intervention wines – many of which you can buy to take home – accompanied by a selection of flavoursome small plates."
What we said
Adam Reid at The French
Where: The Midland Hotel, Peter St, M60 2DS
What they say: "Adam Reid at The French is a collaboration in more than name alone, with Adam making his stamp on every aspect of the dining experience, from the new flexible menus, more relaxed accessible atmosphere and his pièce de résistance – the chefs counter."
What Michelin says: "Chef Adam Reid's multi-course menu is very much a homage to his Northern roots, with dishes having names such as ‘A Warm Northern Welcome’, 'Yesterday's Dinner' and ‘Today's Tea'. Personable chefs explain and finish each course off tableside, and dishes are richly flavoured with the occasional playful touch."
What we said
Where The Light Gets In
Where: 7 Rostron Brow, Stockport, SK1 7JY
What they say: "We work directly with farmers and fishermen from all over the isles to create a menu regulated by the seasons and our own creative touch. Our food and drink is conveyed to our guests by the chefs, in our open plan restaurant and kitchen."
What Michelin says: "This large, loft-style restaurant is located on the top floor of a Victorian coffee warehouse and its open kitchen forms part of the room. The surprise menu is formed from whatever they have foraged that day and beasts are brought in whole and fully utilised. Matching wine flights focus on natural wines."
What we said
Another Hand
Where: 253 Deansgate, M3 4EN
What they say: "Using the very best produce sourced from around the North West, we deliver an immersive intimate dining experience comprised of flavour driven sharing plates, veggie led, responsibly farmed and sourced ingredients from our fully open kitchen to your table."
What Michelin says: "This 24-seater bistro offers an appealing array of sharing plates which champion produce from local, ethical growers. The eye-catching, vegetarian-led dishes are served one at a time and their flavours are punchy and pronounced. Craft beers and low intervention wines accompany. Service is bubbly and the atmosphere, buzzing."
What we said
OSMA
Where: 132 Bury New Road, Prestwich, M25 0AA
What they say: "Neighbourhood Bar & Restaurant with weekly changing Scandi menu."
What Michelin says: "Located in the city’s northern suburbs, this restaurant’s name is a nod to the owners’ birthplaces – OSlo and MAnchester. Set lunch menus are replaced in the evening by tempting small plates, which can be accompanied with wine and cocktails. The stylish room comes with an open kitchen, a communal island table and smart curved banquettes."
What we said
And two from down the road...
8 by Andrew Sheridan
Where: 16 Cook St, Liverpool L2 9RF
What they say: "We could use lots of big words to describe our food. However, to put it plainly, 8’s food is based on simplicity, quality produce, and – most of all – flavour – distinct flavours. It’s about evoking childhood memories and nostalgia; there’s no pretence, stuffiness or starched white linen tablecloths. 8 is not for the faint-hearted, so expect the unexpected."
What Michelin says: "Guests gather in the dimly lit lounge for drinks and precisely made snacks, before heading downstairs to one of the two 8-seater counters, each with its own chef. They cook in front of the guests and talk about the dishes, making for an engaging experience. The cooking takes influences from around the globe and showcases bold, distinct flavours, with quality produce underpinning it all."
What we said
NORD
Where: 100 Old Hall St, Liverpool, L3 9QJ
What they say: "NORD celebrates Northern hospitality and heritage, friendly and engaging service, paired with a food and drink offering built on local relationships with our suppliers."
What Michelin says: Currently, nothing.
What we said
