Whilst in one way lockdowns and furlough leave have plagued the hospitality industry this year, in another it’s been a blessing for the city’s food scene – empowering creative foodies to set up shop on their own and start something new amid all this industry uncertainty. The restaurants might be closed, but we are still very spoilt for choice. Read on as we look at some of the latest drool-worthy openings to land in Manchester…

Pasta and PB&J cannolis from a real Sicilian kitchen

Previously head chef at Pollen, Ornelia set up shop during her maternity leave and hasn’t looked back since. Cooking seasonally, the winter menu at Ornella’s Kitchen includes a four cheese and truffle gnocchi, smoked arancini, chunky lobster ravioli, peanut butter and jelly cannolis and Twix cheesecake.

Spring roll sarnie drops, ordered via Whatsapp

A spring roll sarnie? Think dan dan ground beef, pork spring rolls on sesame mayo, with crispy shallots and garlic sprinkles, ginger and spring onion sauce and pickled pear. Point and case – these are not your average sandwiches. Launched by owner Sam in lockdown, SanSam is based in Prestwich. He delivers in the week and opens for take-outs at the Crooked Man Bar on weekends.

 

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The new pitta project from Evelyn’s Head Chef

Born out of boredom, apparently, The Pitta Shop is a new venture from the team behind NQ favourite Evelyn’s Cafe Bar. Currently closed under Tier 5 regulations, it’ll soon be reopening with a stuffed pitta takeover inspired by head chef Phil’s time spent in Israel. Fillings will feature heavily marinated meats, fresh herbs and spices, with pittas sourced from a local bakery.

 

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Manc-style pop tarts in Levenshulme

Here we have another new opening from some Pollen alumna, this time from patissiers Jenny and Bethan. Based in Levenshulme, Long Boi’s opened its first physical location just before the end of 2020. Open Fridays and Saturdays only, head down to find Manc-style pop tarts, flavoured choux buns and plenty more sweet treats.

A new 'Loaf tin' bakery in Ancoats

First started by Aiden to raise money for the NHS during the lockdown, Loaf has become a fully-fledged bakery business. He initially started wholesale, supplying cakes to the likes of Ezra and Gil. Now he has his own space in Ancoats for collections. Must-tries include the Biscoff loaf, jammy dodger loaf and Kinder Bueno loaf.

 

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Mon 1 Feb - Sun 14 Feb
Words:
Georgina Pellant
Published on:
Mon 1 Feb 2021