One of TV’s most recognisable chefs, Gino D’Acampo, has revealed plans to open a new ‘premium’ Italian restaurant in Manchester.
The chef will be staying in the same spot where his team currently operate the First Street Bar & Kitchen brand, but giving it an £800k refurbishment and rebrand.
The restaurant, at the Innside by Melia Manchester hotel, will soon operate under the name ‘Gino D’Acampo’.
The opening of Gino D’Acampo follows success for the same restaurant brand in Newcastle, Liverpool, London and Leeds, with three further UK sites planned for 2024.
He’s promising that the space will be chic and contemporary with ‘Gino’s signature feature wallpaper’ plus marble table tops, brass finishes, and space for 200 diners across the open-plan restaurant and bar.
The restaurant’s transformation into Gino D’Acampo will include a new bar area with an island cocktail bar, and its own entrance and reception area, with a two-tier terrace.
It’s located in the First Street area, also home to HOME, Junkyard Golf, Bunny Jackson’s and the Gasworks Brew Bar.
Phase two of the site’s makeover will see the 80-seat alfresco drinking and dining area turned into an all-weather terrace.
Dishes on the menu will include classic Italian plates and expert cocktails, with Italian wines and artisan beers.
Speaking on the announcement, Gino D’Acampo said: “I couldn’t be more pleased to announce plans for Gino D’Acampo at INNSiDE Manchester.
“I have a long relationship with the city having opened one of my first restaurants here almost ten years ago and I’m delighted to return to the heart of Manchester, as planned.
“It has always been our intention to open a Gino here, at the beautiful INNSiDE Manchester hotel, and I’m looking forward to launching this early next year.
“The First Street area combines all that I love about Manchester – ease of reach to cool music venues, art, and culture. As an Italian with a love for alfresco dining, I’m looking forward to enjoying a real Neapolitan pizza and negroni (or two) on the terrace this summer. I hope to see you there.”
Garry Fortune, UK Director of Operations at Meliá Hotels International, added: “Gino and his team are a trusted and much respected partner with a proven track record for delivering on performance. We are thrilled to continue our work together with the opening of Gino D’Acampo Manchester, our third collaboration in the North.”
Featured image: The Hoot Leeds