As Christmas is nearly upon us, and office workers everywhere embark on the white knuckle quest for the ultimate Christmas party venue, we've decide to profile a few places to make that decision easier.
First up is Rosso, at the top of King Street. A bit of a Manchester's classic, Rosso appeals to fashion and football fans (Rio Ferdinand is a co-owner), as well as those who appreciate a plush interior and lively atmosphere. Soulful singers stroll the room on a nightly basis between packed out booths, under impressive turn of the century architectural details. Imagine a wedding cake, turned inside out, soaring overhead, and you're close.
The Christmas menu is described by the team as "Italian inspired celebration of festive gastronomy" . Highlights include leaves of smoked halibut set with a beetroot and mint compote and granary toast; angel-hair pasta, tossed in truffle oil with tiger prawns, garlic and mixed wild mushrooms; pan fried turkey breast with a ballotine of turkey leg stuffed with sage, onion and apricot, served with herbed mashed potato, sausage wrapped in pancetta and rich pan juices; prime fillet steak with a Dijon and oyster mushroom cream and a selection of three desserts: Panettone pudding with vanilla cream, Italian mess, chocolate panna cotta.
Rosso is open for Christmas lunch, dinner and on Christmas Day - and they've come up with a special festive offer too. Every two customers book as part of a party of six or more will get a bottle of house wine for free.
Rosso, 43 Spring Gardens, M2 2BG. Tel: 0161 832 1400, www.rossorestaurants.com @rossorestaurants