IT may seem a mite early in the year to be nurturing al fresco daydreams. Unless you are addicted to cowering under patio heaters with a cocktail inappropriate for the season.
Still the nights are getting lighter and there’s a new outdoor terrace to aim for this spring. If the extensive refurb of Dakota Manchester’s waterside area matches the stylish interior we’re in for a treat. One million quid is being lavished on the terrace (cgi above) to complement the hotel’s restaurant, bar, Champagne Room and Cigar Garden.
They’re not taking any meteorological chances either. The dedicated outdoor space will be open rain or shine thanks to retractable canopies to the roof and sides for sunnier days, while state-of-the-art external heaters will kick in when it turns chilly.
It sounds perfect for al fresco dining or as an events space with room for up to 80 guests seated and 100 standing. Venetian fences and foliage will soften the post-industrial view of Ducie Street and the Rochdale Canal.
The boutique hotel, which opened in May 2019 close to Piccadilly Station, houses 137 luxury bedrooms, boasting 20 luxury suites, including the Grand Deluxe Suite. ToM is a big fan of the hotel’s Bar & Grill (review). It will be great to take advantage of their excellent wine list (go for the Aussie Pinot Gris from Paringa) to accompany one of their signature fish dishes al fresco. Let’s aim for May!
Dakota Hotel, 29 Ducie Street, Manchester, M1 2JL. 0161 674 9180.
