Quayside MediaCity has revealed that an exciting new development offering waterfront dining and drinking will launch in September 2023. The Central Bay complex in Salford will house the Kargo food hall, and Kargo Market, all under its 25,000 square foot floorplan.
Central Bay aims to provide exciting food and drink experiences for visitors, while sitting at the heart of cultural landmarks such as The Lowry, Imperial War Museum North and Coronation Street’s studios.
With more than 2,000 square foot of south-facing outside terrace space to enjoy, up to 600 visitors to Central Bay will be able to enjoy unrivalled views of some of Manchester’s most iconic landmarks – including Old Trafford football ground. Add that to the list of destinations for us Mancs when we get the tiniest bit of sun.
The food hall at Central Bay will be run by Blend Family, the operator of the British Street Food Awards 2022 ‘Food Hall of the Year’ winner, who have a mix of design and culinary excellence and will showcase the best in up-and-coming food and drink talent, hand chosen and incubated to bring the best in world food under one roof in Salford.
Central Bay houses four new independent restaurants, 13 kitchens, pop-up events, indie markets, live music performances and recreation space for children, with more announcements to come. It’s set to be a real community hub and a logical next step for the Salford Quays area, given its development in the past decade.
Central Bay has announced a widely varied line-up of traders that will be operating out of Kargo Mkt on its opening. This includes the likes of: Baity Palestinian Kitchen, Boba Cha, Hot & Wild, House of Habesha, Jerk Junction, Locale Coffee, Nila’s Burmese Kitchen, Rio Mex, Vnam, and so many more.
As works progressed on the £3.5 million transformation of the waterfront stretch, developers worked with local artists to ensure Central Bay’s heritage is reflected and celebrated across the destination’s design, from the branding, signage and artwork, through to the re-imagined shipping containers.
Matt Bigland, founder and CEO at Blend Family said: “We take great pride in curating exciting culinary experiences for people and this is one of the most exciting line-ups of world food we’ve ever put together. We can’t wait to open the doors in partnership with Quayside MediaCity and see the smiles on faces as everyone enjoys the incredible plates these kitchens are going to serve.”
As well as family deals, visitors and locals can take advantage of regular £6 lunch deals from all kitchens Monday to Friday, £5 bottomless batch brew coffee and tea, happy hour deals, bottomless brunch, 20% student discount, and handy workspace.
Central Bay also offers a terrace where customers can sit outside on those rare warmer days, but if not, it’s nice to know we can shelter inside.