You know the Hawksmoor drill: great steaks, banging cocktails and the epic dessert that mustn’t be called a giant Ferrero Rocher. This first outpost of the London stalwart already feels like part of Manchester’s fabric. The dining space is in several sections thanks to the layout of the old courthouse on Deansgate, making space for cosy corners as well as raucous Friday-night gatherings. A separate bar is ideal for pre-prandial sips such as Deansgate No. 2 – a mouth-watering combination of honeycomb-infused rye whiskey, Cocchi Rosa, Aperol and orange bitters. To eat, start with gooey, fatty bone marrow or perfectly cooked plump scallops with fragrant tarragon and garlic. Steak cuts are explained by friendly staff; if you’re feeling hungry – and flush – go for the 1kg chateaubriand. While you decide whether to share the Ambassador’s Reception (that dessert), order some melt-in-the-mouth salted-caramel Rolos and rhubarb and custard doughnuts – a nostalgic delight.
Please note that NYE 2017 bookings will only be taken by telephone.