The Martlet Kitchen

Few buildings in Greater Manchester capture the imagination quite like Rochdale Town Hall. Regarded as one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic civic architecture in Europe, its soaring spires, stained glass and intricate stonework have long drawn comparisons with the Palace of Westminster. Following a landmark restoration project, the building now welcomes a new chapter with the arrival of The Martlet Kitchen, a restaurant that takes full advantage of its historic setting while setting bold ambitions for the town’s culinary future.

Originally launched as a pop-up, The Martlet Kitchen has quickly established itself as a dining destination in its own right. During the week, from Monday to Friday, the Café Luxe menu runs from mid-morning through late afternoon, offering refined takes on northern classics alongside brunch staples. Highlights include Jackson’s Rag Pudding, Bacon Chop with Bury Black Pudding and Denshaw Egg, alongside plates like steak and eggs or eggs benedict with smokehouse salmon. Afternoon tea is another draw, marrying the grandeur of the setting with delicate patisserie, finger sandwiches and freshly baked scones.

As the week draws to a close, the restaurant transforms into a fine dining experience on Friday and Saturday evenings under the direction of executive chef Darren Parkinson. Darren, originally from nearby Heywood, honed his craft at Hopwood Hall College before building an award-winning career in acclaimed restaurants across the UK and northern France. His menus at The Martlet Kitchen lean on seasonal and regional produce, often elevating local flavours with international influences. Diners can expect dishes such as Mackerel and Whitby Crab paired with pickled cucumber and sorrel, North Sea Halibut with spiced pumpkin and saag aloo, and the indulgent ‘RTH’ Fillet Rossini made with beef fillet, truffle and duck liver pâté.

Desserts strike a balance between comfort and elegance, with offerings like an Apple Tart with Grandpa Green’s vanilla ice cream or a White Chocolate and Marshmallow Parfait dotted with dried raspberries. The restaurant also benefits from the expertise of renowned chef Tristan Welch, whose career spans legendary kitchens including Le Gavroche and L’Arpège, further underpinning its culinary credentials.

The Martlet Kitchen takes its name from the mythical bird that features in the town hall’s heraldic symbols, representing continuous effort and striving for excellence. True to that emblem, the restaurant bridges Rochdale’s heritage with its ambitions, offering everything from leisurely weekday lunches to evenings of fine dining theatre. In combining history, artistry and flavour, The Martlet Kitchen has already secured its place as a jewel within one of the region’s most remarkable buildings.