Paris, Rome and now Manchester, our city of love. It’s that time of year once again, Valentine’s Day. Whether you’re with dates or mates, it’s time to celebrate love.
A lot is going on in the city the day of and around the 'Day of Love', but here's just a handful of our top picks to go for dinner for the special occasion...
10 Tib Lane
10 Tib Lane is serving up their usual sleek ‘after-hours’ feel this Valentines. Striking the perfect balance between cool and chic with wooden panelling and cosy nooks, these lot will be bringing elegance and sophistication (without being stuffy) to Manchester.
Whilst they haven’t revealed a specific Valentine’s menu, they are known for creative European small plates. Enjoy their seasonal sharing dishes made with fresh produce, including oysters, steak, olives.
This spot is also a favourite for many Mancunians for their hand-crafted cocktails. Indulge in the classics or something with a twist this V-day.
10 Tib Ln, Manchester M2 4JB, 0161 833 1034
Fenix
Fancy Greek food? Fenix is the romantic spot for you! This gorgeously aesthetic restaurant is warmly lit with neutral toned furnishings making it cosy and picture worthy all at the same time.
This modern Greek/Mediterranean restaurant is offering an ‘escape to the Greek Isles’ between the 12th and 15th of February. Their wish is for their menu to whisk lovebirds off to a romantic Grecian beach through food.
Any diner would be spoilt for choice with what Fenix is offering. The five-page menu ranges from vegetarian dishes, sharing plates, food from the grill and cold dishes. With so many options, there’s certainly something for everyone.
The Goods Yard Building, Goods Yard St, Manchester M3 3BG, 0161 646 0321
Louis
This V-day, Louis is inviting couples to experience ‘A Timeless Romance’ from Wednesday 12th - Sunday 16th February. For the glamorous couple, Louis is the spot to be. From the decadent yet authentic Italian-American dishes to the stunning décor, this is not just dinner, it’s an experience.
The seating is lined around a stage where live jazz music is played every night, including an exclusive music programme for Valentines.
Louis welcomes guests to indulge in Rockefeller Oysters, French Champagne and a signature ‘Love Lasts a Lifetime’ dessert, a decadent chocolate mousse with raspberries. If you’re looking to dress up and experience Hollywood glamour this Feb, Louis is the spot for you.
3 Hardman Square, Hardman St, Manchester M3 3EB, 0161 646 0374
Tartuffe
Pronounced 'Tar-toof', this spots style is casual, but their quality is high. They pride themselves on using the best local produce available and focus on changing seasonal menus.
Tartuffe is a relaxed and informal restaurant with a gorgeous bistro aesthetic. This spot is connected with Side Street, a day-to-night cocktail bar you can start Valentine’s celebrations in pre-dinner.
Their specialities are rotisserie chicken, bar snacks and delish sides but they have enough options for everyone to enjoy.
This Valentines they are offering a set menu which is £52 for 2 courses and £60 for 3. Examples of this indulgent menu includes a venison tartare starter and a chateaubriand main.
ABC Buildings Corner of Quay Street and Lower Byrom St, Manchester M3 4AE
Circolo Popolare
Jet off to Italy this Valentines with Manchester’s very own Circolo Popolare. This restaurant balances the line between modern and classic Italian trattoria with large plant features, wicker chairs with bright cushions and art lining the walls.
This one’s for the cool couples; it’s beautifully designed with a menu of classic dishes done right. They have a range of Italian favourites including well-made pasta and pizza.
This spot is sure to spark the romance, serving up love Italian style. Get the spoons at the ready this is the perfect place to share a tiramisu for two.
No 1 St Michael’s, 36 Jackson’s Row, M2 5WD
Piccolino
Piccolino sits in the heart of Manchester and is serving up Italian classics in style. This restaurant is elegant and sophisticated with plush blue sofa seats and low-hanging chandeliers.
This Valentine’s Day, Piccolino is striving to celebrate the many ways Italians show love- through food! Each of their dishes shows care in its own ways from the time spent cooking to comforting flavours.
They’re offering three courses for £65 including a glass of Champagne. This menu includes mains such as lobster spaghetti to fillet steak, guaranteeing indulgence. Here you’ll find romance infused in every detail, including the food.
8 Clarence St, Manchester M2 4DW, 0161 835 9860
Volta
If you’re seeking a spot outside the centre, Volta will not disappoint. This cosy, intimate restaurant in Didsbury is focused on food first. Each of their small plate dishes is created with care and it shows.
They’re offering a sharing meal for two with 9 dishes for just £36 per head. This includes their delish whipped feta and insane hispi cabbage. Volta is also fab for Galentine’s, extending the same menu (plus three more dishes) for groups of three or more at the same price.
Volta also has a fab range of cocktails and wine to enjoy here.
167 Burton Rd, West Didsbury, Manchester M20 2LN, 0161 448 8887
Kitten
Kitten is a gorgeous, modern, Japanese izakaya and cocktail bar. It has a stylish interior featuring bamboo walls, an extensive marble bar and leather booth seating. They also have a towering five-metre-high bonsai tree, creating a truly insta-worthy aesthetic.
This Valentine’s Day, they are offering a £60 per person menu including prosecco on arrival. The menu is designed for two to share, including a selection from their own sushi, sashimi and robata chefs.
The menu includes dragon rolls, sirloin steak and roasted edamame, perfect for couples who love Japanese food.
Deansgate Square, 9 Owen Street, M15 4TW, 0161 3927 913
Mowgli
Mowgli’s a favourite of many, and it is not disappointing this V-Day. This Indian restaurant has a cosy modern design with wooden seating, swing chairs and fairy lights, creating a romantic atmosphere.
This Valentine’s they are offering a set menu for £40 per person, including a glass of fizz or a mocktail. The menu includes a yoghurt chaat bombs, a street plate, two curries and sides to share and a dessert. This will be available between the 9th and 15th of February.
If you’re looking for bold flavours this Valentine’s this is the spot to take your loved one.
16, Corn Exchange House, 37 Exchange St, Manchester M4 3TR, 0161 832 0566
Madre
Madre is a modern Mexican restaurant and bar. They pride themselves on serving authentic tacos, quesadillas & margaritas in a relaxed vibe, all to an eclectic music soundtrack.
Their tacos are served in pairs, perfect for sharing with that special someone. Their set menu this year is £49 per person including starter main and dessert. With this you’ll be treated to lobster tacos, ribeye steak and pineapple eton mess- to name a few dishes.
Madre has mentioned they ‘know a thing or two about love’ and want to welcome diners in this V-Day.
Minshull House, 47 Chorlton St., Manchester M1 3FY, 0161 843 8383