Sexy Fish Manchester is a high-end Asian-inspired restaurant and bar located in Spinningfields, offering premium seafood, sushi, cocktails, and immersive art-filled interiors in the heart of Manchester city centre. Opened in 2023 as the northern flagship of the iconic London brand, the venue combines Japanese-inspired cuisine with glamorous design, attracting celebrities, business leaders, and weekend diners alike. Visitors can expect a vibrant atmosphere, striking marine-themed artwork, late-night DJs, and a menu focused on sushi, sashimi, robata grills, and luxury ingredients such as wagyu beef and king crab. This guide explains exactly where Sexy Fish Manchester is, what the menu includes, how much it costs, what to wear, when to visit, and whether it is worth booking. If you are planning a special dinner, birthday celebration, or stylish night out in Manchester, this detailed guide covers everything you need to know.
Location and Background
Sexy Fish Manchester is situated at 1 Spinningfields Square, Manchester M3, in the city’s premium business and dining district. The restaurant opened in late 2023 as the second UK site of the brand, following the success of its sister venue in London’s Mayfair. The concept was developed by hospitality group Caprice Holdings, known for creating luxury restaurant experiences in major cities.
Spinningfields has evolved into Manchester’s most upscale dining and retail area, home to corporate offices, designer boutiques, and high-end bars. Sexy Fish Manchester occupies a large, purpose-built space designed to deliver a theatrical dining environment. Its arrival marked a significant expansion of luxury dining in the North West, positioning Manchester alongside London as a destination for glamorous restaurant experiences.
The venue is within walking distance of Deansgate, St Peter’s Square, and Manchester Cathedral. It is easily accessible via tram, train, taxi, or on foot from central hotels. Its location makes it popular for both after-work dining and weekend celebrations.
Interior Design and Atmosphere
One of the defining features of Sexy Fish Manchester is its dramatic interior design. The restaurant is known for bold marine-themed décor, large-scale artwork, and statement lighting installations. Guests immediately notice the immersive, theatrical setting designed to feel both luxurious and energetic.
The interior includes bespoke sculptures, aquatic motifs, and rich colour palettes. The lighting shifts throughout the evening, moving from elegant dinner ambience to a more vibrant late-night atmosphere. Music also plays a central role, with DJs performing on selected evenings to create a lively social scene.
The seating layout includes bar seating, intimate tables, and larger group areas. Private dining rooms are available for corporate events and celebrations. The space is designed to accommodate both romantic dinners and high-energy group bookings without losing its upscale feel.
The atmosphere is often described as glamorous, bold, and social. It is not a quiet fine-dining restaurant; instead, it offers a luxury party-dining experience where food, music, and design blend together.
Menu Overview
The Sexy Fish Manchester menu centres on Japanese-inspired cuisine with contemporary Asian influences. Seafood is the main focus, alongside premium meats and vegetarian options. The kitchen emphasises presentation, high-quality ingredients, and shareable dishes.
The sushi and sashimi selection includes tuna, salmon, yellowtail, seabass, and premium cuts such as otoro. Signature rolls often combine seafood with truffle, caviar, or spicy sauces. The robata grill section features wagyu beef, black cod, king crab, and lamb cutlets.
Small plates and starters include tempura dishes, miso-glazed aubergine, crispy duck salad, and prawn gyoza. These dishes are designed for sharing and work well for groups ordering multiple plates.
Desserts are visually striking, often incorporating chocolate, yuzu, matcha, or tropical fruits. Presentation plays a strong role, with many dishes designed to be photographed and shared on social media.
The menu changes seasonally to reflect ingredient availability. While seafood remains central, vegetarian and vegan options are clearly listed, ensuring wider appeal.
Signature Dishes
Several dishes are considered highlights at Sexy Fish Manchester. The black cod marinated in miso is frequently recommended for its rich, balanced flavour and tender texture. Wagyu beef prepared on the robata grill is another premium choice, offering high marbling and depth of taste.
Sushi platters are popular for groups. These combine nigiri, sashimi, and specialty rolls in visually striking arrangements. King crab dishes are also a standout, though priced at the higher end of the menu.
For first-time visitors, the tasting menus provide a curated experience. These typically include a selection of starters, sushi, grilled items, and dessert, allowing guests to sample a broad range of dishes.
Cocktails complement the food menu. Signature drinks often feature Japanese spirits, yuzu, lychee, or exotic fruit combinations. The drinks menu is as creative and visually designed as the food.
Drinks and Bar Experience
The bar at Sexy Fish Manchester is central to its identity. It offers an extensive cocktail list, premium champagnes, sake, and rare spirits. Many visitors choose to sit at the bar for a more social experience.
Cocktail prices typically reflect the premium positioning of the venue. Drinks are crafted with attention to detail and presentation. Champagne service is prominent, particularly during weekend evenings and celebrations.
The wine list includes international selections, with strong representation from France, Italy, and New World regions. Sake options range from accessible to high-end bottles, appealing to both newcomers and experienced drinkers.
Late-night energy increases as DJs begin playing. The restaurant gradually transitions from dining-focused ambience to a party-style setting, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Dress Code and Clientele
Sexy Fish Manchester operates a smart and stylish dress code. Guests are encouraged to dress elegantly, particularly in the evening. While formal attire is not mandatory, sportswear and overly casual clothing may be discouraged.
The clientele includes professionals, celebrities, influencers, tourists, and local residents celebrating special occasions. The venue is especially popular for birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate dinners.
During weekdays, the crowd often includes business diners from nearby offices. Weekends attract larger social groups seeking a high-energy dining experience.
The dress code contributes to the overall luxury atmosphere. Visitors often treat it as an occasion venue rather than a casual meal out.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours
Sexy Fish Manchester typically operates from lunch through late evening. Hours may vary slightly by day, but it generally opens around midday and closes late at night, particularly on weekends.
Prices
Expect premium pricing. Starters often begin at mid-range prices, while main courses such as wagyu beef or king crab can reach higher price brackets. Sushi platters and tasting menus increase overall spend. Cocktails and champagne also reflect the upscale positioning.
How to Get There
Located in Spinningfields, the restaurant is easily reached via Manchester Metrolink, with St Peter’s Square and Deansgate-Castlefield stops nearby. Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria stations are within walking distance or a short taxi ride. Parking is available in nearby city centre car parks.
What to Expect
Expect a lively, stylish atmosphere, attentive service, and visually striking food presentation. Noise levels may rise later in the evening due to music and DJs.
Booking Tips
Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly for Friday and Saturday evenings. For large groups or private dining, reservations should be made well in advance.
Best Times to Visit
Weekday evenings provide a more relaxed dining experience with slightly lower noise levels. This is ideal for business dinners or quieter celebrations.
Friday and Saturday nights deliver the full party-dining atmosphere. DJs, champagne service, and larger groups create a vibrant social setting.
Sunday lunches offer a calmer environment for those wanting to experience the food without late-night energy. Seasonal events, such as festive menus or special themed nights, may attract larger crowds.
Private Dining and Events
Sexy Fish Manchester offers private dining spaces suitable for corporate events, birthday parties, and brand launches. These rooms provide a more exclusive setting while maintaining the venue’s signature style.
Event packages may include curated menus, dedicated service staff, and tailored drink options. Pricing varies depending on group size and selected menu.
Corporate bookings are common due to the restaurant’s central business district location. The combination of premium food and impressive décor makes it a strong choice for entertaining clients.
Comparison with London Venue
The Manchester restaurant follows the same concept as its London counterpart but adapts to the Northern audience. While the core menu remains similar, local preferences influence certain seasonal dishes.
Both venues share a focus on Asian-inspired seafood, luxury ingredients, and dramatic interiors. However, Manchester offers a fresh setting tailored to the Spinningfields environment.
For diners who have visited the London site, the Manchester location delivers a comparable level of design, energy, and menu quality.
Is Sexy Fish Manchester Worth It?
Whether Sexy Fish Manchester is worth visiting depends on expectations. For those seeking a quiet, budget-friendly meal, it may not be the right fit. However, for guests wanting a glamorous night out, premium seafood, and an energetic social atmosphere, it delivers a distinctive experience.
The venue stands out within Manchester’s dining scene due to its scale, design, and brand recognition. It has quickly become a destination restaurant rather than just another city-centre eatery.
For special occasions, client entertainment, or a luxury weekend dinner, many visitors consider it one of the most impressive dining options in Manchester.
FAQs
What is Sexy Fish Manchester known for?
Sexy Fish Manchester is known for luxury Asian-inspired seafood, sushi, wagyu beef, immersive marine-themed interiors, and a vibrant late-night dining atmosphere in Spinningfields.
Where is Sexy Fish Manchester located?
It is located at 1 Spinningfields Square in Manchester city centre, within walking distance of Deansgate and major transport links.
How much does it cost to eat at Sexy Fish Manchester?
Prices are premium. A full dinner with drinks can be significantly higher than average city-centre restaurants, especially when ordering seafood platters or champagne.
Do you need to book in advance?
Yes, especially for weekends. Advance booking is strongly recommended due to high demand.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. Smart and stylish attire is encouraged. Casual sportswear may not be appropriate, particularly in the evening.
Does Sexy Fish Manchester have vegetarian options?
Yes. While seafood-focused, the menu includes vegetarian and plant-based dishes.
Is Sexy Fish Manchester suitable for birthdays?
Yes. It is popular for birthday celebrations and group events, particularly on weekend evenings.
Does it have private dining rooms?
Yes. Private spaces are available for corporate events and special occasions.
Is there live music or DJs?
DJs perform on selected evenings, particularly on weekends, contributing to the party-style atmosphere.
What is the best time to visit?
Weekdays are quieter for relaxed dining. Weekends offer a high-energy experience.
Is Sexy Fish Manchester family-friendly?
It is primarily aimed at adults, especially in the evening, due to its late-night energy and atmosphere.
Can you walk in without a reservation?
Walk-ins may be possible during quieter periods, but booking is highly recommended to secure a table.
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