THE restaurant line-up for the revamped Corn Exchange, due to reopen in July 2015, has been revealed.
Italian restaurant Vapiano, Cabana Brasilian Barbecue, The Cosy Club, Vietnamese street food specialists Pho and Bar and York outfit Kitchen Banyan will take up units inside the Grade II listed building, joining acclaimed Mexican chain Wahaca and Byron Burgers, which already has an outlet on Deansgate.
There will also be five outside-facing restaurants – Corn Exchange stalwarts Salvi’s Deli, which will be much expanded, and Tampopo, plus Pizza Express, Zizzi and Eclectic Grill.
If there’s no stellar flagship restaurant to set the pulse racing it still marks significant progress in the ultra-ambitous project to make the former Triangle a credible food mecca.
Talks are also taking place with several hotel operators interested in running the 86-room boutique hotel mooted the upper floors of Grade II listed building.
Simon Green from owners Aviva Property Investors Trust said: “Manchester Corn Exchange, has a rich commercial heritage and this planned development will build on this, ensuring Corn Exchange plays a vital future role in the commercial heart of the city.
“The redevelopment means a brand new offer for the city centre that is focused on great restaurants that simply aren’t available in Manchester currently, providing an environment where the best regional and independent food outlets can flourish in this incredible building – a gastronomic exchange.”