GRAFENE HAS PERMANENTLY CLOSED
Inspired by the world’s first 2D material, graphene, this 100-seat restaurant with spacious bar focuses on creative British dining. Its decor is suitably glossy, with an architectural style that blends natural wood and leather with nods to Manchester’s industrial heritage. Formerly a sous chef at Restaurant Fraiche on the Wirral, Ben Mounsey has recently taken the culinary helm with an à la carte offering, tasting menus and a ‘British tapas’ menu at lunchtime. Highlights include a starter of pork cheek, curry, carrot and velouté, with a graphene cracker celebrating Manchester’s scientific legacy.
Northern playfulness is demonstrated in a main of venison with Lancashire favourite black peas, and a dessert of Eccles cake with butter and tea. Mini loaves of treacle and rye bread are served warm from the oven, and our tapas dishes showed creativity and skill. Burnt ends of brisket were served with an elegant pease pudding, while rice pudding with Yorkshire rhubarb and liquorice was fragrant and deeply comforting. Drinks include vintage Champagnes, local beers and inventive cocktails, while confident, friendly service makes for a welcoming atmosphere. A refined, modern addition to the North’s dining scene.