The pasta haven in Greater Manchester where you can indulge in flavourful rigatoni opens this weekend

This weekend marks the grand opening of Rigatoni’s, the much-anticipated pasta kitchen from the people behind SUD, in Ancoats.

Manchester’s food scene is rocking at the moment, and even the big wigs at Michelin want a slice of the action.

The newest addition to Greater Manchester’s dining scene, promises a tasty experience.

SUD Rebrands as Rigatonis

Amidst a year of uncertainty and change, SUD just about weathered the storm, transitioning from its previous small plates concept to a specialised rigatoni haven.

The decision follows a period of upheaval that began with a renaming in February last year, responding to a legal challenge from a Glasgow restaurant sharing the name Sugo Pasta.

The Final Farewell as SUD

Announcing the impending changes on Instagram in late November, the restaurant bid a fond farewell to its SUD identity.

The final dishes served on New Year’s Eve paid tribute to the cult favourites enjoyed over the past 8 years.

The message conveyed a promise to return to the roots, transforming into a pasta kitchen for the people, emphasising accessibility and affordability for everyone, from students to lawyers, aged 16 to 95.

The post declared, “While SUD will be resigned to the history books on 31.12.23, what’s coming next is back to our roots of being a pasta kitchen for the people.

“Whether you’re a student or lawyer, 16 or 95, we will be open to EVERYONE, accessible and affordable. Most importantly, everything on the menu will be bangin’ and brand new! Same team, same locations.”

Fresh Rigatoni Extravaganza

At Rigatoni’s, the spotlight is on house-made rigatoni, crafted daily at each location through a bronze die.

This unique process imparts a textured finish to the pasta, perfectly capturing the essence of the ‘asciutta’ style sauces.

With prices starting at just £7.50, patrons can relish hearty bowls of pasta featuring a myriad of tantalising sauce options.

From the bold Nduja Meatballs in Amatriciana Sauce (£13.50) to the comforting FAZOOL! White Beans, Garlic, Fresh Chilli & Parm (£9.50), and the indulgent Brown Crab, Vodka Sauce, and Tarragon (£12.50), Rigatoni’s ensures a diverse and affordable menu for pasta enthusiasts.

Appetizers to Ignite the Palate

Beyond the main attraction, Rigatoni’s offers a tantalising array of appetisers.

Delight in Fried Mozzarella & Pesto Sandwich (£6), Salami & Potato Crocchette (£6), and Chickpea Fritters with Parmesan (£4.50).

The menu is further adorned with Focaccia Toasts boasting enticing toppings such as Gorgonzola Whip & Hot Honey (£6), Grated Tomato, Garlic & Salt (£5), and Black Olive & Caper Spread (£5).

Co-founder Alex de Martiis expresses excitement, stating, “Rigatoni’s marks a new beginning for our restaurants.

“Our aim is to serve our communities for years to come with a quality, accessible, and uncomplicated menu.

“We have seen an incredible reception so far, and we look forward to welcoming old and new customers into our restaurants over the coming weeks.”

What You Can Expect at Rigatoni’s

Rigatoni’s posted on Instagram last year showcasing what punters at the new restaurants can expect.

It read: “Launching this January.

“Our house-made rigatoni is the star of the show and will be extruded fresh daily at each site through a bronze die, which will give the pasta a rough texture that the sauces will cling to ‘asciutta’ style.

“Whether it’s a quick lunch on a Tuesday or a Saturday night with mates, we hope RIGATONI’S will be somewhere you can proudly revisit time and time again.

“With hearty bowls of pasta ranging from £7.50 to £13.50, we’re excited to bring pasta to the masses.

“Bookings, opening dates & menu drop are all coming very soon.”

Expansion Across Greater Manchester

Following the Ancoats debut on January 6th, Rigatoni’s will extend its reach to Altrincham on January 9th and Sale on January 10th. Additionally, a kitchen within Exhibition in the city centre is set to open this weekend, offering Deliveroo and takeaway options from all venues starting January 15th.

Rigatoni’s Locations and Opening Times

Ancoats: 46 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6BF – Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday 12:00 – 21:30

Exhibition: St George’s House, 56 Peter St, Manchester M2 3NQ – Opening times: Wednesday – Sunday 12:00p.m – 9:00pm

Altrincham: 22 Shaw’s Rd, Altrincham WA14 1QU – Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday 12:00 – 21:30

Sale: 7-8 Stanley Square, Sale M33 7XZ – Opening times: Tuesday – Sunday 12:00 – 21:30

Damn, now we’re feeling hungry..

You can find out more on their Facebook page by clicking here