The most romantic day of the year is upon us, and for the first time in two years – we can actually leave the house to celebrate it. You know what that means? It’s time to ditch the sweatpants and scrub up for one night only, while enjoying a delicious meal with your one and only. Whether it’s a romantic atmosphere you’re after or something a little bit more casual, here’s our guide to the best Valentine’s offers to take advantage of this year in Manchester.
1. Australasia
One of Manchester’s most special restaurants, Australasia is set to pull out the stops for Valentine’s Day, with a stunning five-course meal designed to bring the romance. Available to dine-in or make at home, guests can expect plenty of flavours from the Pacific – in true Australasia style – including delicious Bento Boxes and decadent desserts.
For those wanting to seriously indulge, the restaurant serves delicious sushi and premium steaks, as well as mouthwatering chocolate domes, soufflé and more. Australasia, 1 The Avenue, Deansgate, M3 3AP.
2. Stock Exchange Hotel
The lavish Stock Exchange Hotel will be providing the perfect setting for guests this Valentine’s, not only with romantic touches in the rooms, but at Tom Kerridge’s Bull & Bear restaurant, too. There on the historic trading floor, guests will be able to indulge in succulent rotisserie meats, alongside moreish desserts such as black forest choux and a perfectly presented lemon meringue pie. Stock Exchange Hotel, 4 Norfolk St, M2 1DW.
3. The Ivy
Things are getting extra romantic this year at The Ivy. Teaming up with Letters of Note to create a special book, guests on Valentine’s Day will each receive the special book featuring a collection of the most passionate love letters written in history, reimagined by The Ivy Collection with a bespoke cover and foreword. To accompany, there’ll be a special cocktail menu on offer, alongside an extra special sharing dessert consisting of peach and raspberry parfait, white chocolate mousse, popping candy and a raspberry sauce. The Ivy, The Pavilion, Byrom St, M3 3HG.
4. Grand Pacific
Turning up the romance factor in the most Grand Pacific way possible, the city centre restaurant has transformed their delicious High Tea for the occasion – with plenty of tasty treats to share with your loved one. Boasting delicious bites such as prawn cocktail vol au vent, salmon & tuna tartare, passion fruit brûlée, chocolate truffle and more, guests can enjoy the intimate, unique treat from just £23 while Cupid gets busy. Grand Pacific, 50 Spring Gardens, M2 1EN.
5. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele
While L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele doesn’t have anything specific planned for Valentine’s Day, the new restaurant sets the perfect scene for a romantic date. Think grand, lavish pillars that throwback to a more regal time, plush velvets, glowing pink lighting and the delicious flavours of Italy. The restaurant is well-known for serving the ‘best pizza’ in the world, and here in the UK, guests can also take advantage of a menu packed full of other Italian treats, too, including pasta, king prawns and decadent desserts. L’antica Pizzeria Da Michele, 53 King St, M2 4LQ.
6. Ducie Street Warehouse
The perfect place for those who prefer a more casual atmosphere, Ducie Street Warehouse has created a special three-course menu for Valentine’s Day, serving up delectable dishes including Gochujang chicken, 16oz roast sirloin, and Date Majool sticky toffee slices. In addition to the food, there’s set to be a number of great events, too, including DJ sets over the weekend, foreign film screenings in the mini cini, and romantic stays at their in-house aparthotel, Native Manchester. Ducie Street Warehouse, Ducie St, M1 2TP.
7. 20 Stories
Arguably one of the most romantic restaurants in Manchester, guests can take in the wonderful views of the city from the venue’s restaurant in the sky, where they’ll be serving a curated menu which boasts their starring main option, the seared duck breast with caramelised celeriac purée, glazed chicory in a spiced duck jus. Fancy. The delicious menu is accompanied by a fantastic offering of wines, fizz, cocktails and more, with the sparkling city lights as the backdrop for the evening. 20 Stories, NO. 1, 1 Hardman Square, M3 3EB.