A new grill room and cocktail bar is set to open within the historic former city library on Deansgate, reimagining Gusto’s landmark restaurant that has long occupied the space.
GiGi Gusto Griglia is inspired by the ‘glamour, energy and style of Italy’s golden age’. The new concept is being led by Jamie Barber, whose previous includes Hush in Mayfair, and being an investor on Netflix’s My Million Pound Menu. The kitchen will be led by renowned Manchester chef Sam Astley-Dean (Onda / Lina Stores).
The concept is described as classic and simple yet elevated, with ingredients cooked over flames from the open kitchen and grill room, expertly made cocktails, including a ‘House of Negroni’, and a soundtrack from some of Manchester’s top musicians and DJs.
Grill-fired plates include steak Florentine, prawns, lamb chops, rare breed cuts, antipasti, spuntini, fresh pasta and pizzette, all made to Sam’s own recipe. Speaking about the food, Sam Astley-Dean says: “The menu is built for sharing, in the spirit of Italian famiglia dining. The dishes feel familiar, but the quality of the produce and the care taken in the kitchen make them special. It is proper cooking, served generously and without fuss.”
At the heart of Gigi is a decadent bar and entertainment programme that’s been supported by Manchester concept team Want Studios. The grand, centralised ‘Bar Eleganza’ will be home to the ‘House of Negroni’, which, unsurprisingly, specialises in Negronis, Martinis and Sgroppinos alongside a considered list of wines. Featuring a secret speakeasy entrance on Jackson’s Row, the space will play host to live music via a classic baby grand piano.
Jamie Barber says: “I wanted, quite selfishly, to build a restaurant I want to go to, somewhere I can sip a proper Negroni, share handmade pasta and pizzette, listen to great music and finish with a well-rested piece of rare-breed steak. From the kitchen to the piano, bar to the DJs and management, every part of GiGi is designed around the pleasure of eating, drinking and staying out. That’s why we’ve spent the last year working with the best talent in Manchester to create something truly special alongside beautiful interior design from the well renowned Russell Sage (Gordon Ramsay / The Savoy) who bring timeless, classic and lavish finishes.
“We have huge respect for where Gusto came from and the people who grew up with it. GiGi is the next step on. More glamorous, more ambitious, and a proper night out.”
GiGi Gusto Griglia will open its doors late September.
Keep in the know
Be the first to hear about all the best events and news in Manchester.
- Words:
- Bradley Lengden
- Published on:
- Sat 19 Sep 2026
