The Team Behind El Gato confirm new Middle Eastern concept

Owners of Spanish restaurant El Gato Negro have confirmed plans to open a third city centre venue this year in the old Panama Hatty's unit on Brown Street.

By Steven Pankhurst | 11 January 2019

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The much-anticipated new restaurant from Simon Shaw and Mills Hill Developments will be a Middle Eastern concept, and although the name and plans for the design of the restaurant are being kept under wraps, you can be assured that they’ll create something special.

The basement of the Grade II listed building at the top of King Street will be totally transformed whilst also making use of the building’s original features.

El Gato Negro is renowned for seasonally-inspired dishes reflecting a mix of modern and traditional Spanish flavours and techniques, with influences from closer to home. The restaurant has won countless awards, most recently gaining a 2019 Michelin Bib Gourmand, an honour upheld for the third year running.

Sister restaurant Canto, which opened in Cutting Room Square in September 2018, brings modern Portuguese cuisine to Ancoats and has firmly established itself as part of the community, attracting a regular and loyal crowd.

Speaking on the plans, Chef Patron and Creative Director of El Gato Negro Simon Shaw, commented: “We’re really pleased to announce that we will be opening our long-awaited third restaurant on Brown Street this summer.

“Drawing heavily on my travels through the Middle East, diners can expect authentic flavours inspired by the various regions. The space itself will be open and inviting, similar to El Gato Negro, making guests really feel at ease. We’re looking forward to revealing more in the coming months.”

Speaking on behalf of Bruntwood, Long Leaseholders of Manchester Club, James Tootle Senior Retail and Leisure Manager, commented: “This is a much-anticipated announcement for us at Bruntwood, as we’ve been in long-term discussion with the El Gato Negro team about bringing their idea to life within this iconic building.