When it opens its doors on Bridge Street on the 18th November, new multi-sensory Japanese fine dining concept MUSU is expected to bring something very different to the city.
The Japanese word MUSU translates as ‘infinite possibilities’ - something that encapsulates every aspect of this extraordinary venue, from its menus to its multi-million-pound interiors. The site formerly occupied by fish and seafood restaurant Randall & Aubin is being completely transformed and the new venue will feature bespoke Italian furniture, subtle, soft mood lighting and bespoke Geisha wall designs.
The experience unfolds as soon as guests walk into the bar area. The bar itself is constructed from Dekton stone, brass and onyx; its fascia is layered in brass, detailed into a banana leaf pattern and softly back lit.
An open kitchen, located in the centre of the restaurant, has been designed to look like a luxury residential kitchen, but with maximum power and technology. Complementing the food and drink, the entire space follows the clean lines and precision associated with Japanese design. Each element of MUSU has been meticulously thought through, beginning with its contemporary interpretation of Japanese dishes offering a totally immersive experience.
image credit @mikeshaw222
Behind this ambitious concept is classically trained Chef Patron Michael Shaw, whose previous experience includes stints in illustrious kitchens including Le Manoir aux Quat' Saisons and Richard Neat’s eponymous restaurant in Cannes. Shaw has spent the last 18 months honing his skills to adopt the precision, skill and flavours that Japanese cuisine entails.
He will deliver a multi-sensory dining experience divided into three sections:
- Sentaku allows guests to choose their dishes from each section of the menu to suit their own personal preferences.
- Kaiseki is a set menu curated by Michael that comprises seven and eleven course options which together provide the guest with a balanced choice through the seasonal menu.
- Omakase means entrusting the chef to create the perfect menu - a theatrical and educational sushi experience, currently the only true one of its kind outside London.
The Omakase counter serves six guests and will be presided over by Head Sushi Chef, Andre Aguiar, himself trained by renowned Japanese Sushi Master Yugo Kato.
The MUSU team will utilise only the very finest ingredients. The kombu and soy sauces come from the best producers in Japan; certified, sustainable, traceable and wild bluefin tuna, and A5 grade wagyu beef sourced from only the top suppliers in Japan. Locally sourced, seasonal produce will include langoustines from the Isle of Skye and salt aged free-range duck from Devon.
MUSU’s drinks offering, designed by Beverage Director Sean McGuirk, is equally as creative with a carefully curated cocktail collection. For example, drinks such as the popular Espresso Martini will be elevated to ‘Coffee, Vanilla, Chocolate’ created with sublime blend of Portobello Road Toasted Coffee Bean Vodka, vanilla, cacao & espresso extract. Guests can also expect a range of premium Japanese sake and whiskies from around the globe, whilst sommelier, Ivan Milchev, will guide guests through their extensive list of fine wines.
image credit @mikeshaw222
MUSU’s private dining room accommodates up to 14 guests. Separated by a glazed telescopic wall, the latter can be frosted at the touch of a button to deliver total privacy where necessary. It will also feature three incredible video walls displaying fluid structures, perfect visuals, presentations and ambient backgrounds.
MUSU’s exceptional design also incorporates the ability to transition into a late-night experience at weekends, focused on late night entertainment rather than formal dining. The technologically superior events space has a full theatre production setup, while the booth tables can ‘transform’ into cocktail-style tables replicating the Japanese after-dinner tradition of 'Nijiki'.
image credit @mikeshaw222
MUSU is the creation of two of Manchester’s most experienced hospitality specialists, Vincent Braine and Marius Kamara’s who are behind venues such as Suede, The Milton Club and Dive Bar & Grill. Highly experienced restaurant Consultant Danny Fox - a founding partner of Living Ventures - has been appointed as Operations Director.
Musu is expected to open at 64 Bridge Street, Manchester M3 3BN on 18th November 2022.
Follow @musumcr for updates
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