Sexy Fish Manchester is a high-end Asian-inspired restaurant and bar located in the heart of Manchester, known for its extravagant interiors, premium seafood menu, and vibrant nightlife atmosphere. Opened in 2023 by the hospitality group behind the original London venue, it combines fine dining with immersive design, live entertainment, and a social dining experience. Visitors can expect Japanese-inspired dishes such as sushi, sashimi, robata grill items, and premium seafood, alongside signature cocktails and DJ-led evenings. This guide covers everything you need to know, including menu highlights, prices, booking tips, dress code, and what to expect when visiting.
Overview of Sexy Fish Manchester
Sexy Fish Manchester is located in the Spinningfields district, one of the city’s most upscale dining and nightlife areas. It officially opened in late 2023, following the success of its London counterpart, and quickly became one of Manchester’s most talked-about venues.
The restaurant blends Japanese-inspired cuisine with global influences, offering a menu focused heavily on seafood, sushi, and robata-grilled dishes. It is designed as both a restaurant and a nightlife destination, attracting a mix of locals, tourists, and celebrities.
The venue is operated by Caprice Holdings, known for luxury restaurants across the UK. Their aim with Sexy Fish Manchester was to bring a London-style premium dining experience to the North of England.
The concept goes beyond food. It combines art, music, lighting, and design to create a multi-sensory dining environment, making it ideal for celebrations, date nights, and special occasions.
Interior and Design
One of the biggest attractions of Sexy Fish Manchester is its interior. The restaurant features bold, extravagant décor with marine-inspired themes, including large sculptures, glowing lighting installations, and luxurious finishes.
The design draws inspiration from the ocean, with elements such as coral textures, shimmering surfaces, and aquatic colour palettes. The space is intentionally theatrical, designed to impress guests from the moment they walk in.
Large open dining areas are combined with private spaces and bar seating, allowing for different dining experiences. The lighting changes throughout the evening, shifting from a relaxed dinner ambience to a more energetic nightlife setting.
Art plays a major role in the venue. Sculptures and installations are placed throughout the space, adding to the immersive feel. The result is a restaurant that feels more like an experience than just a place to eat.
Menu Highlights
The Sexy Fish Manchester menu focuses on high-quality seafood with Japanese influences. It offers a wide range of dishes designed for sharing, making it ideal for group dining.
Signature dishes include sushi rolls, sashimi platters, and premium seafood selections such as lobster, king crab, and tuna. The robata grill is another highlight, offering dishes cooked over charcoal for a smoky flavour.
Popular menu items include miso black cod, wagyu beef, and spicy tuna rolls. The menu also features vegetarian options, though seafood remains the main focus.
Desserts are equally creative, often presented in visually striking ways to match the restaurant’s overall aesthetic. Expect bold flavours and unique combinations rather than traditional desserts.
The menu is designed to be flexible, allowing guests to order small plates for sharing or build a full-course meal.
Drinks and Cocktails
Sexy Fish Manchester has an extensive drinks menu, with a strong focus on cocktails, sake, and premium spirits.
Signature cocktails are a major highlight, often featuring exotic ingredients and elaborate presentation. Many drinks are designed to match the restaurant’s aesthetic, with vibrant colours and unique glassware.
The bar also offers a curated selection of wines and champagne, catering to guests looking for a luxury experience. Premium spirits, including rare whiskies and tequilas, are also available.
Sake plays an important role in the drinks menu, reflecting the Japanese influence of the cuisine. Staff are usually available to recommend pairings based on your meal.
The bar area is lively, especially later in the evening, making it a popular spot even for those not dining.
Dining Experience
Dining at Sexy Fish Manchester is designed to be an event rather than just a meal. The atmosphere evolves throughout the evening, starting as a sophisticated dining environment and gradually becoming more energetic.
Music is a key part of the experience, with DJs often playing in the evenings. This creates a transition from fine dining to a nightlife vibe, especially on weekends.
Service is attentive and polished, with staff trained to guide guests through the menu and recommend dishes and drinks. The experience is tailored to feel premium and exclusive.
The restaurant attracts a stylish crowd, and the overall environment encourages guests to dress up and enjoy the occasion.
It is particularly popular for birthdays, celebrations, and special nights out.
Location and Setting
Sexy Fish Manchester is situated in Spinningfields, one of Manchester’s most prestigious districts. This area is known for its luxury restaurants, bars, and offices.
The location makes it easily accessible from central Manchester, including key transport hubs such as Manchester Piccadilly and Deansgate stations.
Spinningfields is also home to other high-end venues, making it a popular area for a full evening out. Many visitors choose to combine dinner at Sexy Fish with drinks or entertainment nearby.
The setting adds to the restaurant’s appeal, positioning it as a premium destination within the city.
Prices and Cost
Sexy Fish Manchester is considered a luxury dining venue, and prices reflect this positioning.
Main dishes typically range from £25 to £60, depending on the ingredients and preparation. Premium seafood items, such as lobster or wagyu beef, can be significantly higher.
Sushi and small plates are priced individually, allowing guests to control their spending. However, a full meal with drinks can easily exceed £100 per person.
Cocktails are generally priced between £15 and £25, while champagne and premium spirits can increase the total bill considerably.
Despite the high prices, many visitors consider the experience worth the cost due to the quality of food, service, and atmosphere.
Dress Code and Atmosphere
Sexy Fish Manchester has a smart dress code, encouraging guests to dress stylishly. While it is not strictly formal, casual attire such as sportswear or flip-flops is usually discouraged.
The atmosphere varies depending on the time of day. Early evenings are more relaxed and focused on dining, while later hours become more lively and social.
The venue is known for its vibrant energy, especially on weekends, when it attracts a fashionable crowd and a party-like atmosphere.
It is a place where presentation matters, both in terms of food and personal style.
Practical Information and Planning
Opening Hours
Sexy Fish Manchester typically operates daily, with extended hours on weekends. Dinner service usually starts in the late afternoon and continues into the night, with the bar staying open later.
Prices
Small plates: £15–£30
Main dishes: £25–£60+
Cocktails: £15–£25
Average spend: £80–£150 per person
How to Get There
The restaurant is located in Spinningfields, central Manchester. It is accessible by train via Manchester Piccadilly or Deansgate stations. Trams and taxis are also convenient options.
What to Expect
Expect a high-energy environment, premium food, and a visually stunning setting. The experience is more than just dining—it’s entertainment.
Tips for Visitors
Book in advance, especially for weekends
Arrive on time to keep your reservation
Dress smartly to match the venue’s style
Budget for a higher-than-average dining cost
Consider visiting midweek for a quieter experience
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Sexy Fish Manchester depends on the type of experience you want.
Weekday evenings are ideal for a more relaxed and intimate dining experience. The atmosphere is calmer, making it easier to enjoy the food and conversation.
Weekends are much livelier, with DJs, louder music, and a more social crowd. This is the best time for celebrations and group outings.
Early evening reservations offer a balance between atmosphere and comfort, allowing you to experience the venue before it becomes too busy.
Seasonal events and holidays can also influence the experience, with special menus and themed nights sometimes available.
Comparison with London Venue
Sexy Fish Manchester is inspired by the original Sexy Fish London, which is located in Mayfair.
While both venues share a similar concept, the Manchester location has its own identity. It reflects the city’s vibrant culture while maintaining the luxury feel of the brand.
The menu is similar, though some variations exist to suit local preferences. The design and atmosphere are equally extravagant, ensuring consistency with the brand’s reputation.
Manchester’s version is often seen as slightly more relaxed compared to the exclusivity of the London venue.
Why It’s Popular
Sexy Fish Manchester has gained popularity due to its combination of luxury dining, entertainment, and social atmosphere.
It appeals to a wide audience, including food lovers, nightlife enthusiasts, and those looking for a unique experience. The visual appeal of the venue also makes it popular on social media.
The restaurant’s reputation has been boosted by celebrity visits and word-of-mouth recommendations.
Its location in Spinningfields further enhances its appeal, placing it among Manchester’s top destinations for upscale dining.
FAQs
What is Sexy Fish Manchester known for?
Sexy Fish Manchester is known for its luxury seafood menu, Japanese-inspired cuisine, and vibrant nightlife atmosphere. It combines fine dining with entertainment.
Where is Sexy Fish Manchester located?
It is located in Spinningfields, central Manchester, one of the city’s most upscale districts.
How much does it cost to eat there?
Expect to spend around £80 to £150 per person, depending on what you order and whether you include drinks.
Do you need a reservation?
Yes, reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and for evening dining.
What type of food is served?
The menu focuses on seafood, sushi, sashimi, and robata grill dishes with Japanese influences.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, smart dress is encouraged. Casual sportswear is generally not suitable.
Is Sexy Fish Manchester good for celebrations?
Yes, it is a popular choice for birthdays, anniversaries, and group celebrations due to its lively atmosphere.
Does it have vegetarian options?
Yes, there are vegetarian dishes available, although seafood is the main focus.
What time does it get busy?
It becomes busiest in the late evening, especially on Fridays and Saturdays.
Is it suitable for couples?
Yes, it is a popular choice for date nights, particularly earlier in the evening when the atmosphere is more relaxed.
Are walk-ins allowed?
Walk-ins may be accepted, but availability is limited, so booking is recommended.
Is it family-friendly?
It is more suited to adults, particularly in the evening when the atmosphere becomes lively.
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