Cocotoo

Cocotoo is one of Manchester's numerous Italian restaurants, standing apart from the crowd because of its extensive menu and personalised service. The owners, with a lot of zest and creativity, have converted a huge railway arch into the elegant Cocotoo restaurant. The beauty of the high arched ceiling is embellished with spectacular replicas of Sistine Chapel frescoes, while the attractive lights and waterfalls complete the décor.

The open kitchen churns out freshly cooked fare and is popular with pre-theatre diners and those visiting the nearby palace. Apart from the variety of pasta and pizza, the mains comprise of steaks and chicken dishes served with potatoes and vegetables of the day.

The Cocotoo platter of hors d'oeuvres offers an assortment of Italian antipasto and, there are also cold antipasti like the dalla tavola fredda or the pasticcio di fegato della casa which is homemade chicken liver pâté, served with red currant. Vegetarians could opt for the insalata caprese or slices of fresh mozzarella, tomato and avocado with basil and olive oil.

In addition to regular desserts like cassata and profiteroles, the Cocotoo also offers torta frutta tonda - a fragrant short crust pastry filled with patisserie cream topped with a selection of seasonal fruits with a crown of strawberries. You could also try the torta amaretto, a layer of liqueur soaked sponge filled with cream, decorated with Chantilly cream and whole Amaretti biscuits which is the perfect way to end a hearty Italian meal.