Winsome

Winsome feels like a natural evolution in Manchester’s dining scene – a restaurant that is both bold in its intent and relaxed in its delivery. The first solo project from acclaimed chef Shaun Moffat, it carries the assurance of someone who has honed their craft at some of the country’s best kitchens, from Manteca and Hix to local favourites Edinburgh Castle and Maya. Here, though, the approach is distinctly his own: gutsy modern British cooking rooted in seasonality, nostalgia, and a refusal to overcomplicate things.

The menu captures a sense of familiarity but refreshes it with real flair. Expect hearty pies for sharing, tender cuts of pork or beef paired with playful sauces, and plenty of seasonal vegetables treated with the respect they deserve. Moffat has a knack for striking a balance between comfort and surprise, whether it’s confit mussels and trotters on toast or a pudding of deep-fried bread and butter custard. These are dishes with confidence, generosity, and just enough irreverence to keep things interesting.

The drinks offering is every bit as carefully thought through. Overseen by former Schofield’s barman Tom Fastiggi, the bar leans on timeless cocktails with a few inventive twists, alongside an impressive selection of wines that reflect both old-world traditions and new-world creativity. A concise low-and no-alcohol list means no one is left out of the experience, while the bright Atrium bar next door extends the social side of the restaurant with space to linger longer.

Moffat is joined by Owain Williams, known for projects like Belzan and Madre, and together with their team they’ve created a space that feels instantly assured. The room itself is stripped-back but welcoming, the open kitchen alive with energy, and service pitched at that sweet spot between casual and attentive. Winsome embodies the best of northern hospitality: it’s honest, generous, and unfussy, while still delivering food and drink of a seriously high calibre.