One of Manchester’s newest restaurants named in UK’s top 100

El Gato Negro, one of Manchester’s most anticipated 2016 launches, has been named one of the top 100 restaurants in the UK at the National Restaurant Awards, together with Manchester House and The French.

It’s not just industry experts who have recognised El Gato Negro’s food and drink offer. Figures released by the restaurant reveal a staggering 100,000 drinks and dishes have been lovingly prepared and served to satisfied customers.

Since opening in February of this year, the restaurant has experienced unprecedented demand, with a nine week waiting list for peak weekend bookings. The menu explores modern and traditional Spanish flavours and techniques alongside some of the country’s best wines and sherries. Popular dishes from the menu are Morcilla scotch eggs, Spanish classics such as mini Catalan chorizo and individual lamb skewers.

The Pretty Little Poison is the most popular tipple at The Black Cat, El Gato Negro’s exclusive cocktail bar with retractable roof.

“We’ve opened with a bang for sure, says chef patron and creative director Simon Shaw. People can’t believe we’ve only been open five months because of where we are in the journey.

“When we are having really hard days and you’re on your 16th or 17th hour, sometimes I take a step back and think this is incredible and so heart-warming. As a restaurateur, you have to gain the trust. If a customer trusts you in your knowledge, production, presentation and the ambience you set – that’s why they come back. We are starting to see regular customers in a period of five months, which is amazing.”