El Gato Negro confirms third Manchester restaurant for 2019 – and it’s Middle Eastern

Owners of King Street Spanish restaurant El Gato Negro have confirmed plans to open a third city centre venue in 2019 – and it will be a Middle Eastern concept.

The name and plans for the design of the restaurant are being kept under wraps for now, but the new venture will occupy the former Panama Hatty’s unit on Brown Street.

It follows the launch of sister restaurant Canto, which brought modern Portuguese cuisine to Ancoats when it opened in Cutting Room Square in September 2018.

“Drawing heavily on my travels through the Middle East, diners can expect authentic flavours inspired by the various regions,” said chef patron and creative director of El Gato Negro, Simon Shaw.

“The space itself will be open and inviting, similar to El Gato Negro, making guests really feel at ease. We’re looking forward to revealing more in the coming months.”

The development team say the new restaurant will see the basement of the grade II listed building at the top of King Street totally transformed, whilst making use of the building’s original features.  

“This is a much-anticipated announcement for us at Bruntwood, as we’ve been in long-term discussion with the El Gato Negro team about bringing their idea to life within this iconic building,” said James Tootle from Bruntwood, long leaseholders of the Manchester club.

“The grade II listed Manchester club is the perfect location for such an exciting concept.

“Steeped in history, and built in 1870 in the Venetian Gothic style, it will make an extraordinary setting for a glorious new dining experience right in the heart of the city centre.”

The launch date is yet to be announced, but owners hope it will be open by summer 2019.