Mana is defined as ‘The power of the elemental forces of nature embodied in an object or person’. It is this respect for and embodiment of the natural world that is crystal clear in Manchester restaurant, Mana. The changing of the seasons is reflected in its ingredients and menu, and Mana works closely with farmers and fishermen to ensure high-quality produce, using methods of production and preparation which fuse tradition with innovation.
Dining at Mana is an incredibly unique and high-calibre experience, hence the Michelin-star it proudly wears – the only restaurant in Manchester to do so. Chef Patron Simon Martin describes the restaurant as ‘alive, evolving, and immersive’, and a space where he shares his ‘life’s work’ with guests.
A changing set menu is presented to guests at Mana, with the restaurant clear that no changes will be made to dishes based on diners’ likes or dislikes. Dietary requirements and allergies should be passed on in advance of dining, but Mana is explicit in saying that it does not cater for vegan diets.
Though the menu is ever-changing, you can expect to be served around 13 courses. Previous examples of Mana’s dishes include: N25 caviar with duck liver and chamomile, Scottish langoustine with cured egg yolks and spruce, turnip salad with smoked haddock and st.andrews, and strawberries with brown butter, woodruff, and inoculated grains. This is an exquisitely prepared and executed menu for diners with sophisticated and curious palates.
The restaurant itself welcomes tables of one to four, and accommodates a maximum of 24 people. As a result, dining at Mana is in incredibly high demand, with the restaurant opening bookings for tables months in advance. Meals at Mana are prepaid, costing approximately £195 per person for dinner and lunch, with reduced versions available for £95 per person.
For a special occasion dinner in Manchester, take a look at Mana (just make sure you book well in advance...).