Cottonopolis

Coined from the 19th-century nickname for Manchester, Cottonopolis is a quintessential Northern Quarter joint, with its wooden floors, towering beams and exposed brick in a grade II listed building. Walk through the grand entrance and you’re greeted with high tables, booth seating and atmospheric lighting, as well as a sweeping bar and an open kitchen producing billows of steam from bamboo baskets.

The concept for the menu is contemporary Japanese, taking a sprinkling of influence from other places too. Expect sushi – ranging from yellowfin tuna akami sashimi to teriyaki seared beef maki rolls with mushroom and truffle mayo, bao buns (the chicken karaage is an instant hit), as well as dumplings and grills cooked over an open fire. Veggies and vegans have an entirely plant-based menu at their disposal, featuring dragon rolls, Korean fried cauliflower and sesame glazed tofu bao.

Early evenings are busy with the after-work crowd enjoying cocktails from an original menu. “Whisky + Walnut” is an interesting mix of Johnnie Walker, amaro Montenegro, green walnut vermouth, sherry and orange oils. As well as a selection of beers including Kirin Ichiban and guest kegs on rotation.

Evenings and weekends welcome guest DJs and musicians and you can pre-book bottomless brunch on Saturday and Sunday too.

Want to be the first to receive all the latest news, tips, articles, guides and updates from Confidential Guides? Sign up here.