What are your essential components for the perfect Sunday lunch? Do you turn your nose up at anything other than a huge slab of beef? Or are you all about roast pork with that crunchy, chewy crackling? Maybe a lemony, buttery roast chicken is the only one for you. There are some exceptional vegetarian contenders these days too, an earthy wild mushroom wellington is a favourite.
The trimmings, of course, are of paramount importance: the crispiest of roast potatoes, gooey and indulgent cauliflower cheese, Mancunian-style red cabbage braised in Vimto, gargantuan Yorkshire puds, ‘schweins’ in blankets and, quite possibly the most important component, a damn fine gravy all feature on our dream Sunday plates (and cause impassioned arguments in the Confidentials office). Or how about going one step further with a gigantic slow roast prime rib for 2-3 to share? All of the places on this list are doing something special with their Sunday dinner offerings, we’re hungry just thinking about it.
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Book Now Northern QuarterDakota Grill Manchester
More detailsDakota Grill Manchester is the work of former Malmaison owner, Ken McCollough and it is as dark-hued and handsome as the successful boutique hotel chain. It’s an inviting place with flickering candlelight, very retro-sexy – sure to be the setting for many a first date.
The focus at Dakota is on steaks which are very good – all grass-fed, 28 day-aged, hand-cut Aberdeenshire beef cooked over hot coals.
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AncoatsThe Firehouse
More detailsFound in the former E & A Auto Services garage depot on Swan Street, Firehouse is the sister restaurant to Ramona’s Detroit-style pizzeria. It’s part restaurant, part bar and part performance venue where tables are available to book for dinner and “after dark drinking”. The space is open and airy with a real laid-back feel. White shutters, bleached brick and glitter balls hanging from the high ceiling complete the chilled out party ambience.
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SpinningfieldsHawksmoor
More detailsThe first Hawksmoor steakhouse outside of London is a confident affair. Well sourced steak and attention to detail have created a place like no other.
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Manchester City CentreJames Martin
More detailsA fine-dining restaurant inside a casino with a celeb chef name above the door? Alarm bells. Yes, James Martin has his name across the massive billboard outside, but this is not an ostentatious venue.
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Manchester City CentreThe Refuge
More detailsWinning small plate fusion in an iconic and glamorous setting. Housed in Manchester’s iconic The Refuge Assurance Company dating back to 1858, this DJ-run restaurant and bar is large and sassy.
