Nestled within a historic textile warehouse in Manchester’s NoMa district, Skof is the highly anticipated debut from Tom Barnes, a chef whose pedigree includes leading Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume to its third Michelin star. His first solo venture has quickly carved out its own place in the city’s fine dining landscape, offering a contemporary British menu that balances precision with warmth, excellence with ease.
From the moment Skof opened in 2024, it was clear that Barnes had no interest in creating a temple of formality. Instead, the focus is on impeccable seasonal ingredients, sourced from Rogan’s Our Farm in Cumbria and some of the finest producers in the UK. The multi-course tasting menus—12 or 15 dishes in the evening, with a shorter but equally considered lunch option—offer a journey through delicate, detail-driven cooking, where refined technique enhances rather than overwhelms.
Expect masterfully executed plates like Sladesdown duck with peach leaf, Orkney scallops with celeriac, and Dexter beef bavette. Desserts follow suit, including the deeply personal ‘Barney’s Tiramisu,’ a tribute to Barnes’ late father that rounds off the meal with a touch of sentimentality. The drinks offering is just as carefully curated, with an expertly chosen wine list and even a bespoke beer, created in collaboration with Manchester’s Track Brewery.
Skof isn’t about ceremony—it’s about making exceptional food feel approachable. The space itself is stripped-back yet elegant, embracing the building’s industrial bones while creating an inviting, comfortable atmosphere. There’s no dress code, no hushed reverence—just a team that genuinely wants you to have an unforgettable dining experience.
Within a year of opening, Skof secured its first Michelin star, a testament to Barnes’ talent and vision. But beyond the accolades, what sets it apart is its ability to blend the best of high-end dining with the laid-back energy of modern Manchester.