The Ottolenghi group has confirmed it will open its first restaurant outside of London in Manchester's Ancoats neighbourhood, with an autumn 2026 opening date targeted. The move represents the most significant geographical expansion in the brand's 23-year history and reflects growing confidence from established London operators in the depth of the UK's regional dining markets.
The Manchester site will operate under the Ottolenghi NOPI format — a full-service restaurant rather than a deli — and will be located on a yet-to-be-disclosed address within the Ancoats area, which has emerged as one of the UK's most concentrated dining destinations outside the capital.
Why Manchester, why now
Speaking through a statement, the group cited Manchester's food culture, its growing international population and the strength of local produce networks in the North West as the primary factors behind the choice of location.
The Ottolenghi group has resisted regional expansion for more than two decades, with previous growth focused on additional London sites. Industry observers have noted a broader shift in this position among premium London operators over the past three years, with several high-profile groups — including D&D, Hawksmoor and Dishoom — having established or expanded regional presences.
Manchester, and specifically Ancoats, has attracted more restaurant openings per square mile than any UK area outside central London over the past four years, supported by significant residential development, a young professional demographic and a hospitality workforce that has matured considerably.
Format and team
The Manchester site will seat approximately 80 covers and will operate an all-day format consistent with the NOPI model — a lunch and dinner menu underpinned by the bold, produce-driven Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavours synonymous with the brand. A dedicated head chef for the site has not yet been publicly named, though the group has indicated they are recruiting internally.
The group's catering and retail arms are not expected to be part of the initial Manchester launch, though long-term plans for a deli format in the city have not been ruled out.
The significance for Manchester
For Manchester's food and hospitality sector, the confirmation of Ottolenghi's arrival carries both symbolic and practical weight. The city has long argued its dining scene rivals London in ambition if not yet in scale; the arrival of one of the capital's most globally recognised restaurant brands lends that argument considerable credibility.
The Mise will report further details on the site, team and opening date as they are confirmed.