Opening date set for El Gato Negro

EAGERLY-anticipated Spanish restaurant El Gato Negro is to open in Manchester on February 22.

A multi-million pound investment will see the tapas-style restaurant, bar and cocktail bar open its doors at 52 King Street, a former retail unit that has been extensively converted and refitted over the last six months. 

The restaurant is a partnership between award-winning chef Simon Shaw and a Mills Hill Developments, a company backed by a number of private investors and leisure operators.  

Set across three floors, El Gato Negro will incorporate areas for al fresco all-season eating and drinking.

A casual drinking and dining space is located at street level with a bar area and charcuterie counter serving a range Spanish cheese and cured meats.

The main restaurant is on the first floor, while The Black Cat at El Gato Negro, a cocktail bar at the top of the building will provide a relaxed setting with a retractable roof, which opens to reveal the Manchester sky. 

Chef Patron and founder Simon Shaw said: “With El Gato Negro Manchester, we explore a menu of new and old Spanish flavours and techniques alongside some of the country’s best wines and a new bar offering in a heritage city venue.

“We’ve taken care to make this a venue that will appeal to those looking to drop by for half an hour over a selection of tapas and a glass of wine or sherry, as much as it will for those taking time to enjoy a bigger occasion.  We’re very much looking forward to opening our doors.”