Hollywood legend Robert De Niro was in Manchester this week to mark the start of construction on the city’s next major landmark — a 246-metre tower set to become the tallest building in the UK outside London.
De Niro, who co-founded Nobu Hospitality alongside Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and producer Meir Teper, joined Salboy’s founders Fred Done and Simon Ismail for the groundbreaking ceremony on the site, which will house Nobu Residences, Nobu Hotel Manchester and the city’s first Nobu restaurant.
When complete in 2031, the skyscraper will bring 452 luxury residences, a 160-room hotel and a Nobu restaurant beneath restored Grade II-listed Victorian arches — combining Manchester’s industrial past with Nobu’s signature style of contemporary Japanese design.
Speaking at the event, Nobu Hospitality’s founders said: “Breaking ground in Manchester is a defining moment for Nobu in the UK — our first venture beyond London, and the introduction of Nobu Residences to this market. Manchester’s global outlook and dynamic spirit align perfectly with the Nobu brand. We’re proud to bring our signature hospitality, dining and design to the city.”
Fred Done, Betfred owner and co-founder of Salboy, said: “10 years ago, Simon Ismail and I founded Salboy with a clear vision: to change Manchester’s skyline. I believe we are doing just that. This is our pièce de résistance — exactly what we wanted to bring to Manchester, the city of firsts.”
Simon Ismail added: “Chef Nobu’s 30-year influence on our culinary tastes cannot be understated and I look forward with huge anticipation to the impact he and his team will have on Manchester’s dining scene. Beyond the restaurant, being part of Nobu’s journey to extend its leadership in global luxury hospitality is an honour.”
The project, developed by Salboy in partnership with Nobu Hospitality and construction firm Domis, is designed by Bowley James Brindley and will feature Japanese-inspired interiors with Manchester influences. Construction work begins next year, with sales for Nobu Residences Manchester launching in 2026.
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