The last time a restaurant in the city centre of Manchester had a Michelin star was all the way back in 1977. Star Wars had just come out at the pictures, Jimmy Carter was president of the United States and The French in the Midland Hotel was the proud owner of one of the most coveted prizes in hospitality.
1977 marked the last year any restaurant in the city centre held a star, with just Juniper in Altrincham having one within any decent distance from the city – losing it back in 2009.
Well, the wait is over, and endless discussions, whinging, proud exclamations and stiff upper lips have melted away because Mana has been recognised by the Michelin lot and earn the city a brand-spanking new shiny star.
Run by ex-NOMA chef Simon Martin, Mana in Ancoats was dubbed one of the most ambitious restaurants to land in Manchester in recent years upon opening and it seems to have certainly lived up to the handle.
Simon’s gargantuan 19-course menu aims to rediscover everything that’s been forgotten about British produce, bringing a whole new and exciting concept to the city .
Well done – it seems that Manchester’s restaurant industry has had its prayers answered. Let’s get some more now.
