GiGi Gusto Griglia Grill Room and cocktail bar has opened in Manchester in the historic former City library on Deansgate, built 1878.
Gigi is a re-imagining of the landmark Gusto restaurant, an Italian grill room and bar inspired by the glamour, energy and style of Italy’s golden age.
The concept is classic and simple yet elevated. Outstanding ingredients cooked over flames, expertly made cocktails in the Bar Eleganza, cocktail bar and a room designed to keep you there until closing, set to a soundtrack from some of Manchester’s best musicians and DJs.
The kitchen will be led by renowned Manchester chef Sam Astley-Dean (Onda / Lina Stores), whose career has taken him through some of the country’s most respected kitchens and made him one of the city’s most exciting culinary talent.
At the heart of Gigi is a decadent bar and entertainment programme that’s been supported by Manchester concept team Want Studios. The ‘Bar Eleganza’ a grand, centralised bar will be home to the city’s first ‘House of Negroni’ specialising in Negronis, Martini’s and Sgroppinos alongside a considered list of wines.
The difference here is the musicality, with a classic baby grand piano transporting you to 1950’s / 60’s Italy in a classic hotel bar, but with songs you’ll know and love. Those in the know will head straight for the secret speakeasy entrance on Jackson’s Row. Bar Eleganza’s drinks list has been developed by leading Manchester’s libation specialist Errant, the team behind Stray.
The city’s greatest piano players and selectors will set the soundtrack and lift the city’s grandest bar and dining rooms.
GiGi Gusto Griglia has been created Jamie Barber, founder of Cherry Equity partners is veteran restaurateur (Hush Mayfair, Villandry) and investor on My Million Pound Menu (Netflix).
Jamie said: “I wanted, quite selfishly, to build a restaurant I want to go to, somewhere I can sip a proper Negroni, share handmade pasta and pizzette, listen to great music and finish with a well-rested piece of rare-breed steak. From the kitchen to the piano, bar to the DJs and management, every part of GiGi is designed around the pleasure of eating, drinking and staying out. That’s why we’ve spent the last year working with the best talent in Manchester to create something truly special alongside beautiful interior design from the well renowned Russell Sage (Gordon Ramsay / The Savoy) who bring timeless, classic and lavish finishes.
“We have huge respect for where Gusto came from and the people who grew up with it. GiGi is the next step on. More glamorous, more ambitious, and a proper night out.”
