Fumo

With its terrace overlooking Oxford Road and its much-photographed spiral staircase, Fumo is a favourite spot in Manchester for dinner and drinks with friends.

We think of it as the cool older sister of San Carlo Manchester (even though it’s actually younger). At weekends, DJs play while chic Italian cocktails and chilled rose flows from the marble bar. At these times, the vibe is more ‘night out’ than sedate meal for two; it’s a place you can look your best for.

We love the atmosphere but let’s not forget this is a San Carlo (award-winning and all), so the food is spot-on as well. There are salads and tartares, risottos and lots and lots of pasta dishes, such as classic spaghetti carbonara, and homemade ravioli stuffed with pecorino and truffle.

There are pizzas and calzone, with the dough made fresh on the premises. And then there is the Robata grill which gives a smoky, charcoal flavour to the flame-seared fresh seafood and steaks. Go for the whole turbot marinated in lemon and thyme, or the dry aged rib-eye on the bone with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt.

They make their own gelato, dolce and torte, so you really don’t want to skip dessert if you’re dining here. And if you’re ‘out-out’ at San Carlo Fumo, you might want to take a look at their grappa menu, too.