Livebait - Manchester

Livebait's belief in the joy of simple pleasures has helped it to turn into one of the best places to enjoy uncomplicated yet elegant and fresh fish and seafood. This small chain of comfortable and informal restaurants, presents traditional favourites with a modern and creative twist.

The atmosphere is bright and lively, with white walls, tiled floors and cosy seating. A friendly team offer you attentive service to make sure your visit is memorable. Heads often turn as the innovative and beautifully presented fish dishes leave the kitchen, bound for the tables.

Amongst the starters expect to find light and peppery Louisiana crab cakes with Cajun potato salad and rémoulade sauce, a Mediterranean soup with garlic rubbed croutons, saffron mayonnaise and grated Gruyère cheese, as well as delicious hot smoked salmon, potato and parsnip rosti with spinach and poached egg.

For those who enjoy shellfish, the menu offers a plate with crab, oysters, prawns, mussels, cockles, whelks and crevettes. A glance at the blackboard helps one order daily specials that are both tempting and unique. The tuna steak, marinated and glazed with soya, mirin and honey, served with stir-fried Asian greens, is a healthy main.

The global menu encompasses the exotic and unusual, such as spicy red Thai fish curry with coconut milk, lime leaves and coriander served with rice. If you like your fish grilled, the organic Scottish salmon fillet and whole lemon sole are choices worth exploring. Their lively bar area serves lighter bites and is open all day.

There is champagne along with red, white and rosé wines to complement the food. The dessert list includes dark chocolate fondant served hot, with praline cream and cherry compote, also a selection of English farmhouse cheese.

They also have interesting theatre deals and party menus. The distinctive Livebait experience can be enjoyed for both lunch and dinner.