You could live happily in one of these rooms, with everything you would need to be self-sufficient, with a kitchen fully stocked with pots, pans and an oven.(Image: NQ)
Falling somewhere between a hotel and an Airbnb the suites are more like apartments and even have a washing machine.
However, there are also the services of a hotel such as an in-house restaurant, reception and room service if you are feeling a little less self-sufficient.
The ‘room’ had five rooms – two bedroom with double beds and one ensuite, an open plan kitchen-lounge and another bathroom.
Having opened in January 2022 it all felt very new, and like the rest of the hotel was almost entirely monochrome.
While I felt some colour would not go amiss, the decor is unlikely to offend anyone.
One great advantage this had over an Airbnb was a pool big enough to do laps in and fitted with a sauna and jacuzzi for relaxing in afterwards
The beds were comfortable and while I cannot say I slept well, owing to the late-night attractions of Manchester, I definitely could have.
These attractions are close at hand. CitySuites is divided into two neighbouring buildings just across the river from the city centre in Salford.
The location was unrivalled – within easy walking distance of the trendy Northern Quarter, AO Arena – or the financial centre if you must.
The restaurant occupies the ground floor of one of the CitySuites towers and the food was of mixed success.
The breakfasts are served at the table as opposed to a buffet, and were delicious. Most people will find something to like in the variety of cooked or continental breakfasts.
But the dinner was less impressive. The menu promises refined dishes inspired by favourites from the north of England (this being Manchester).
With starters costing around £9 and mains around £25, I had hoped the broccoli would not be the best thing we ate.
Mushroom tortellini lacked flavour. The same was true of parmesan mash that venison sat on, which just tasted of slightly cold mash while halloumi fries were thick and floppy.
And in a city like Manchester, with so many great places to eat, this is not a huge issue.
For a place that is trying to be many things at once – am Airbnb, a hotel, a restaurant – it does well at the first two.
CitySuites would be great for someone staying in Manchester for some time and wanting the ease of hotel life, but space to cook their own meals and put a wash on.
It is not beautiful, but it is very functional, and sometimes that is all you want.
