One of the world’s most famous hospitality brands, Nobu Hospitality, has announced plans to open a hotel, restaurant and the UK’s first Nobu-branded residences in what is set to be Manchester’s tallest skyscraper. Part-owned by two-time Academy Award winner Robert De Niro, Nobu is now planning to bring its “signature blend of luxury hospitality and world-class dining” to Manchester.
In partnership with property developer Salboy, the project – currently named Viadux 2 – will introduce the Nobu Hotel Manchester as the tallest building outside London, standing at 246 metres. The Viadux 2 project represents a £360 million property development in a prime Manchester city centre location, subject to planning permission this spring.
The 76-storey tower will house 160 hotel rooms, sophisticated event spaces, and a signature Nobu restaurant and bar, each reflecting the brand’s signature minimalist design. The development will also introduce 452 Nobu residences, marking the brand’s debut into the UK’s luxury real estate market.
Offering an exclusive opportunity to live the Nobu lifestyle, each residence will feature refined design with thoughtful Japanese details, premium amenities such as Nobu dining and room service, an exclusive swimming pool, spa, podium garden and gym, as well as access to the city through a dedicated experience team.
Nobu was founded in 1994 as a single restaurant in Los Angeles run by chef Nobu Matsuhisa. Robert De Niro famously invested in the restaurant after becoming a regular there and took Nobu to New York. Since then, Nobu has expanded to over 36 restaurants and 50 hotels worldwide.
Trevor Horwell, CEO of Nobu Hospitality, said: “We are proud to include Manchester in our global collection, with its vibrant culture and growing global status. Strong partnerships are essential to our success, and with Salboy, Fred Done, and Simon Ismail, we have the best-in-class partners with a solid reputation and a world-renowned vision.”
“Having grown up in the area, I am personally immensely proud of this project in a city that continues its evolution as a global destination for luxury hospitality. Manchester is home to world-class developments, a thriving culinary scene, and a growing demand for high-end lifestyle experiences.
“None of our locations are cookie cutter; we wholeheartedly embrace the spirit of each destination. We are delighted to be working with Salboy to blend the Nobu experience with the essence of Manchester.”
Simon Ismail, co-founder of Salboy, added: “This £360 million deal for Nobu Manchester will take the city to new heights in terms of service, cuisine, and experience. Chef Nobu’s cuisine, renowned worldwide, has influenced dining across the globe.
“Even if you haven’t dined at a Nobu restaurant, you have likely experienced dishes inspired by his innovations. As the original innovator in fine dining, Chef Nobu popularised a blend of cuisines in exciting new ways, leaving a lasting influence on every modern restaurant you see today. We are excited to unveil plans for the UK’s first Nobu-branded residences and hotel, with this signature hospitality offering at its heart.”
Plans for the skyscraper designed by SimpsonHaugh Architects (who also designed Deansgate Square and Beetham Tower) were lodged last April and it’s expected to take four or five years to be completed.