NEW £1m fine dining restaurant & bar Quill all set to open on King Street

Quill, a new fine dining restaurant and cocktail bar for Manchester, is set to open its doors on King Street, forming a serious food & drink scene for the once affluent shopping district.

Quill will occupy the former Topshop Shoes unit on King Street and become the second venue for owner On the Wall Group following the launch of Chalk Bar & Grill in Didsbury last year.

“The vision for
Quill is one of
opulence, luxury
and exclusivity…
serving an a la
carte and 8-course
tasting menu…”

They are promising a “luxury restaurant and exclusive cocktail bar” with a menu focused on British food and will become On the Wall’s flagship.

Michelin Star quality chef, Curtis Stewart, will head up the kitchen at Quill after jobs at quaint restaurants down south. A big deal not just for the brand new restaurant but for Manchester. Stewart is the finest chef to arrive in the city since Rogan. What’s more the man himself will be pro-actively cooking, not just putting his name to the menu.

Curtis presented us with a very aesthetically pleasing dish for a sample of things to come. When asked to describe what was in front of us (pictured) he said; “My homage to the tomato. This dish showcases the versatility of something that we take for granted. 8 textures and tastes of tomato with the classic basil, olive and mozzarella. And this is my ethos at Quill – taking something ordinary and making it into something unique and exciting.”

“I love Manchester, it’s changed so much since 05 (2005) but it’s great to be back,” he continued.

We stuck our proverbial neck out and asked if he thinks the restaurant will be a Michelin Star contender: “I’d be lying if said I didn’t want to achieve a star (Michelin Star) but I theory and reality are two very different things,” he quickly replied.

“I just want to create good food that is consistent and I have a team behind me who are happy with what we do. If things happen because of that then great, if not, I’ll know I’ve not killed my self and everyone else along the way trying to achieve something that may never come. I have achieved 3 rosettes before – if I can get back there I’ll be happy.”

On The Wall have also just announced that hospitality expert, James Cunningham, has been appointed general manager of Quill, posing a welcoming friendly face to Manchester’s elite.

Originally from Chesterfield, James is well-known in Manchester for his passion for the hospitality industry. His CV includes Harvey Nichols Second Floor Restaurant and ABode Hotel where he masterminded the Five Years of Michael Caines campaign.

“I am thrilled to be part of an exciting team bringing a stunning new experience to Manchester,” he said. “I simply cannot wait to see our guests enjoy the stunning food our Head Chef, Curtis Stewart, is planning, as well as the way it will be delivered. Most of all I look forward to welcoming all of our new guests.”

James will now be creating a team of skilled hospitality professionals who will be author, editor and scribe of the Quill experience.

“The vision for Quill is one of opulence, luxury and exclusivity,” said James. “We will be serving an a la carte and 8-course tasting menu, bespoke cocktails and high quality beverages. “

On The Wall Group CEO Chris Longmate said James’ arrival marked another crucial step in the Quill launch. “With his experience and expertise we know James will help us to create a truly high end experience at Quill. Guests will leave knowing they have enjoyed an exceptional night of top quality food, service and surroundings.”

The exclusive restaurant and bar will officially welcome customers from Friday, October 30, after a VIP launch. The biggest opening of 2015? Some might say.

For more information on Quill or to reserve your table visit www.quillmcr.co.uk or @QuillMCR.

#QUILLISCOMING