This experience stood out to me for several reasons.
For starters, it was my first proper dining-out experience outside of London or North Surrey.
Secondly, this restaurant is part of CitySuites II – a luxury aparthotel in the heart of Manchester – though it’s not directly attached.
Instead, it’s just a 15-second walk from the main building, giving it the feel of an independent, stand-alone spot while still being linked to the hotel.
From the moment we arrived, the service was warm and welcoming.
We were greeted by friendly staff who showed us to our table beneath a ceiling decorated with tree branches and leaves.
The atmosphere was stylish yet comfortable, with a nice balance between modern decor and a relaxed, approachable vibe.
We were handed the menu, and it was clear from the start that we were spoilt for choice.
Dishes like roasted porchetta and salt and pepper squid made narrowing things down a challenge.
In the end, I opted to start with the halloumi fries served with sweet chilli sauce – a classic choice, but one that Embankment Kitchen elevated.
The halloumi was fried to perfection: golden and crisp on the outside, warm and soft inside.
The sweet chilli sauce added just the right level of zingy sweetness, making it a moreish, satisfying way to kick off the evening.
Alongside the food, Embankment Kitchen boasts an impressive drinks menu.
I decided to try the butterscotch martini, made with Teichenne, espresso, Absolut vodka and caramel syrup.
(Image: Ezekiel Bertrand)
I’m not exaggerating when I say it was one of the best drinks I’ve ever had.
Sweet, smooth, and indulgent, it tasted like dessert in a glass with just the right kick.
I enjoyed it so much I finished it before my main course even arrived, and immediately ordered a second.
For my main, I went with the steak and ale pie, which came with colcannon mashed potato, buttered kale, tenderstem broccoli, roasted parsnips, and a rich red wine gravy.
The pie itself was generously filled and had a beautifully flaky pastry top.
The filling was hearty and comforting, with the ale and beef working perfectly together.
The mash was creamy with just enough texture from the cabbage to keep it interesting, and the greens were fresh and well-prepared.
The gravy brought everything together with a deep, savoury flavour.
I will say I wasn’t quite ready for how piping hot the pie was, but once I took that into account, every bite was a pleasure.
With my meal, I also tried Salford Rum — a spiced rum with rich, warm notes that’s a bit trickier to find down south.
It had a bold flavour profile, slightly sweet with hints of vanilla and nutmeg, and went down very smoothly.
It felt like a nice touch of local flavour, and I appreciated being able to try something I wouldn’t normally find in London.
Now, I always like to believe there’s room for dessert, but on this occasion, I was simply too full.
That’s not a reflection on the food – quite the opposite, actually.
Every course was so satisfying that I couldn’t fit another bite.
At the time, I told myself I didn’t regret skipping dessert.
Writing this now, I slightly do — although in fairness, the butterscotch martini might’ve filled the dessert slot without me realising.
It was sweet enough to count, and delicious enough to make up for it.
Embankment Kitchen was so great that I returned the very next morning for breakfast.
And, if dinner was anything to go by, I had high expectations.
I went for the Italian sausage and new potato hash, which came with onions, garlic, spices, a fried egg on top, and a drizzle of fresh herb oil.
Once again, I was blown away.
The potatoes were crispy and well-seasoned, the sausage was rich and flavourful, and the onions and spices gave the whole dish a lovely depth.
The fried egg, cooked just right, brought everything together, and the herb oil added a freshness that lifted the dish.
It was a satisfying, flavour-packed way to start the day, and one I’d happily order again.
Overall, Embankment Kitchen exceeded my expectations.
The staff were consistently friendly and attentive, the food was beautifully prepared, and the drinks were genuinely memorable.
For me, what stood out most — beyond the high-quality food and drink — was how relaxed and unpretentious the entire experience was.
Whether you’re staying at CitySuites or just passing through Manchester, I highly recommend making time for a meal — or two — at Embankment Kitchen.
From start to finish, both dinner and breakfast were fantastic, and I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in the city.
