There’s a certain energy that takes over when a new name starts doing the rounds in Manchester – it appears on everyone’s feed at once, and suddenly, you have to see it for yourself. At the base of Deansgate Towers, which includes the city’s tallest skyscraper, that buzz has found a new home, in Kouba. Offering not one, but three distinct experiences in a single, well-designed space, Kouba shifts with the hours, from a morning coffee hub to a sophisticated night-time spot. Whether you’re drawn in by the now-famous latte or a promise of Levantine cooking, this spot delivers.
Tap-poured latte and La Chouquette bakes
Let’s begin with the drink that captured the city’s attention: the Salted Brown Butter Oat Latte. Poured fresh from a gleaming copper tap, this is more than just clever marketing; it’s a genuinely delicious creation. The nutty, caramelised flavour of the brown butter with smooth oat milk makes for a perfect morning kickstart or afternoon pick-me-up.
The daytime charm extends well beyond coffee. Kouba serves an all-day menu, with brunch available until 2pm, and you’ll find an impressive display of pastries and cakes from beloved Didsbury bakery, La Chouquette. Pairing your latte with a flaky almond croissant or a slice of sharp lemon meringue pie is an ideal setup for a relaxed catch-up, plus the bright, airy interior, filled with greenery and warm textures, makes it an inviting place to settle in.
An evening of mezze and charcoal grills
As afternoon fades, the atmosphere transforms. From 4pm, Kouba’s focus shifts to its Lebanese kitchen. The menu is a celebration of flavours cooked over hot coals, designed for a true feast for the senses. Start with a generous spread of hot and cold mezze, from classic creamy hummus to a rich and smoky muhammara – the fattoush and tabbouleh salads are bright with fresh herbs.
The main event, however, is the grill. The lamb chops are cooked perfectly pink, while the kebabs are juicy and seasoned with aromatic spices. Every dish is presented with care, often garnished with fresh herbs and grilled peppers, plus, it’s an ideal dining experience for sharing with a group.
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To complete the night, Kouba also operates as a shisha lounge in the evenings, offering a social atmosphere to extend your visit after dinner. Its location makes it a great spot for a pre-theatre meal, too, just down the road from the Palace Theatre, Opera House and Bridgewater Hall.
📍 You can find Kouba at the base of Deansgate Towers, Unit B, Owen Street, Manchester, M15 4TQ.
