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 rosé 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.

Pre-theatre dining

Enjoy a taste of Italy before the show.

Make your next theatre visit even more memorable with a special dining treat from Fumo Manchester, just five minutes’ walk from the Palace Theatre.

Available Monday to Friday, 4pm – 7pm, the pre-theatre menu offers two courses for £22.95 or three courses for £28.95, featuring favourites like rump steak and fries, pollo Milanese, and pan-fried fillet of seabass with garlic and chilli spinach.

The perfect start to your evening, Fumo combines elegant surroundings with authentic Italian and classic grill flavours.

Private dining

The Private Room at Fumo in Manchester is an ideal party venue, boasting its own bar. This chic space mirrors the stylish ambiance of the main restaurant below, complete with floor-to-ceiling windows offering dramatic views into the backlit kitchen. It accommodates up to 50 guests for dining or drinks receptions.