Skof

Launched in 2024, Skof brought a fresh new dining experience to Manchester, centred around locally sourced ingredients and seasonal tasting menus. The restaurant quickly gained acclaim among casual patrons and professional reviewers alike, booking out months in advance and becoming only the second restaurant in the city to receive a Michelin star.

Headed up by chef Tom Barnes, a 2014 Roux Scholar and a finalist of “Great British Menu” in 2020, Skof nonetheless refrains from the seriousness of similar fine dining establishments. There's no pretentiousness here, with one of the restaurant's stated goals being to offer diners an experience full of joy and surprises instead, without any faff about dress codes or crisp white tablecloths.

Showcasing the kitchen's skilful preparation while keeping an eye on simplicity, Skof serves multiple-course tasting menus in different lengths, including a short lunch version. Barnes' modern British cooking is in full flight here, complemented by a thoughtfully curated drinks list with both alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings.

With a relaxed, welcoming approach and a meticulously planned out offer, it's easy to see why Skof has gained such an outstanding reputation in such a short time.