GRAFENE, the restaurant named after the revolutionary material, is on course to open this July in the former Brasserie Blanc premises that have stood empty for an amazing seven years.
Many have eyed the corner site where King Street and Chapel Walks conjoin; Paul and Kathryn Roden (above) have taken the plunge. The couple don’t come unprepared. Over the last decade they have made a huge success of four-star Losehill House Hotel and Spa near Hope in the Peak District. Key to that success has been exec chef Darren Goodwin’s Modern British food in its Orangery restaurant.
City centre Grafene, though, is a whole different ball game. It’s a 190-seat ‘informal’ cocktail and champagne bar and restaurant, in which £1 million has been invested.
Under the direction of Goodwin, the Grafene team will offer an ‘eclectic menu’ from breakfast through to dinner. Along the way there’ll be a daily changing market-based a la carte menu, a seven-course taster menu and interesting small plate options, all sourced from non-GM local or artisan suppliers.
The island bar, a destination in its own right, will serve vintage champagne, local beers and cocktails inspired by the scientific innovation of Graphene, plus a selection of small plates and light food.
Grafene also promises a quality wine list, creating an opportunity for tasting sessions in the dedicated wine room, along with wine matching for the tasting menus.
An open pastry kitchen in the heart of the restaurant will offer a visual experience from breakfast through to lunch, afternoon tea and dinner.
There’s also and al-fresco dining area featuring a sliding glass wall to bring the outside in and an innovative light box changing with the moods of the day.
Paul Roden says: “We are inspired by the world's first 2D material Graphene, first isolated at Manchester University. Grafene is our food and drink interpretation of this exciting new chapter in Manchester’s rich history, and of the excitement and energy there is around its possibilities for science and technology.
“While we are serious about our food, there is no need to take eating out so seriously that it stops being fun. With private booths and a big bar space, we will create a relaxed, unstuffy atmosphere for people to enjoy. Grafene will offer a truly unique experience in the heart of the city.”
Grafene, 55 King Street, Manchester, M2 4LQ. @grafeneMCR