Where to celebrate those special anniversaries in Manchester

If you’re really looking to impress your significant other, then head here. Adam Reid at the French offers outstanding levels of service, warmth and elegance that in turn, create a relaxed and friendly atmosphere like no other in Manchester. The restaurant boasts 4 AA Rosettes — among myriad other accolades, and it’s not difficult to see why. The staff are friendly and professional, the atmosphere is sophisticated but relaxed, and the food is second-to-none. The menu shifts according to the seasons, but the emphasis is on modern British cooking with a ‘North West Accent’ : ‘Yesterday’s dinner’ to start, composed of cold cut meat, crackers and pickles ; fish egg fish pie ; meadowsweet custard and sugar biscuits. All the ingredients are well-sourced, and there’s a killer cocktail and wine menu to boot.

 For a more casual affair, Salut Wines, one of Manchester’s finest Independent Wine Retailers and Wine Bars, is a brilliant option. The interiors are chic and intimate (helped by the low-level lighting) and the atmosphere is always lively, though never boisterous or too noisy.  Cheese, charcuterie and mezze boards (all individually selected by their team and sourced from independent suppliers), are the order of the day — all of which are designed to be enjoyed with a glass (or bottle!) of one of their many fine wines. If you’re overwhelmed by the drink options, the friendly and knowledgeable staff will gladly assist you, and it’s worth noting that there are a range of gluten free and vegan options available too.

Situated on the 19th floor of Spinningfields (one of Manchester’s most popular shopping and entertaining spots), 20 Stories is home to a glamorous restaurant, lively bar, and expansive rooftop terrace with unparalleled 360-degree views of the Manchester skyline. The bar, headed up by Jack Marsden, serves signature cocktails (hello Peach Tea Punch!), craft beer and experiments with local ingredients to provide some of the most uniquely-flavoured tipples in the city. Not only this, 20 Stories is also home to a brilliant menu that showcased the best of the Northwest. Real highlights include the citrus cured salmon with a yuzu and daikon salad, the celeriac wellington with leek vinaigrette, and their passion fruit pavlova served with passion fruit sorbet. There’s tasting menus available too, if you’re really looking to push the boat out, and a terrace menu if you just fancy a few snacks with your drink.

We love Teppanyaki for their commitment to authentic Japanese cuisine. In operation since 1987, the team are experts in serving up high-quality, fresh, and delicious food — all cooked to order in front of guests. ‘Teppanyaki’ means « grilling on an iron plate », so expect plenty of lightly-charred meat and fish dishes (our favourites include the grilled sirloin steak and the grilled king prawns). The food is light and flavoursome, and there are veggie options available too, including their grilled tofu steak with aubergine. A wide selection of fine wines and beers are on offer to accompany your meal, but we highly recommend sampling a traditional sake for the ultimate Japanese dining experience. This restaurant is smart and understated — a tasteful spot to celebrate any anniversary.

If your ideal anniversary celebration involves indulging in plates upon plates of delicious Indian street food, then look no further! Serving up dishes inspired by many different Indian regions, Indian Tiffan Room (ITR) is a fun and lively spot that’s particularly good for vegetarians and vegans. From chilli paneer and Dahi Puri (potato and yoghurt pastry rounds), to masala dosas and aromatic biryanis, there’s something for everyone. Meat-eaters will go mad for their Goat Keema and chilli squid rings — but our favourite dish is a dessert, the Gulab Jamun, a deep fried milk dumpling dipped in rose sugar syrup. Yum!