Skof is Manchester’s newest Michelin Guide restaurant just three months after opening

In what is rapidly becoming a crowded field of excellent restaurants and places to eat out, standing out in Manchester is becoming increasingly difficult.

Yet Skof, Manchester’s newest dining sensation, has done just that—rising to the heights of the Michelin Guide just months after opening its doors.

Skof lands on the Michelin Guide

With its blend of bold flavours, local sourcing, and refined technique, Skof has quickly become one of the most talked-about restaurants in town, earning the attention of both critics and food lovers alike.

Set within a beautifully refurbished old textile warehouse just a short walk from Manchester Victoria station, Skof merges the city’s rich industrial heritage with modern culinary artistry.

Founded by acclaimed chef Tom Barnes, formerly the executive chef at the Michelin three-starred L’Enclume, Skof stands showcases Barnes’ refined approach to cooking, combined with the exceptional vision of Simon Rogan’s UMBEL restaurant group.

Despite its youth, Skof is a restaurant with ambitions that reach far beyond its early days.

The team’s dedication to quality and innovation has not gone unnoticed, and its inclusion in the Michelin Guide is a clear signal that this new venue is already playing in the big leagues of Manchester’s dining scene.

What did the Michelin inspectors say?

The Michelin inspectors were clearly impressed, describing the restaurant’s atmosphere and food as ‘brilliant,’ and particularly noting the thoughtful blend of influences in the dishes.

Here’s what they had to say: “The cooking skilfully blends measured Japanese influences with those from the restaurant’s doorstep; for dessert, you’re just as likely to get omakase sorbet as you are Manchester honey ice cream.

“The meal ends with a scoop of “Barney’s Tiramisu”, touchingly inspired by Tom’s late father.

“A relaxed atmosphere is encouraged, with the chef’s hand-picked playlist and the chattering diners combining for a brilliant buzz.”

Where is the food at Skof from?

The food at Skof is a celebration of the North West, featuring seasonal produce sourced from local suppliers.

The menu boasts ingredients from the small-scale Cinderwood Market Garden, as well as produce grown specifically for the restaurant at Our Farm, Rogan’s meticulously run operation in the Cartmel Valley.

The result is a menu that is deeply rooted in the region, while simultaneously reaching for broader influences.

One of the most exciting aspects of Skof is its delicate fusion of local flavours with global inspiration.

The Michelin inspectors highlighted this, remarking on the skilful integration of Japanese influences in the dishes, paired seamlessly with ingredients from the North West.

The menu ranges from intricate small plates to standout desserts, including a memorable Manchester honey ice cream and an omakase sorbet that reflects the restaurant’s flair for creative contrasts.

The dessert menu also carries a personal touch that adds depth to the dining experience. The signature “Barney’s Tiramisu” is not just a delicious end to the meal but a heartfelt tribute to Tom Barnes’ late father, offering a poignant connection between the chef’s personal life and his professional work.

What’s Skof like inside?

The space itself reflects this duality of tradition and modernity.

Skof embraces its industrial setting, with exposed brick walls and girders serving as a nod to Manchester’s past.

Yet, the atmosphere is far from austere.

Modern lighting, carefully selected furniture, and an open, welcoming layout create a space that feels contemporary, relaxed, and full of life.

There’s also a curated playlist chosen by the chef that underscores the dining experience with a laid-back, enjoyable soundtrack, contributing to the vibrant buzz of conversation that fills the room.

In the short time since its opening, Skof has already carved out a reputation as a must-visit spot in Manchester, balancing fine dining with an unpretentious vibe that invites guests to relax and enjoy.

Skof now joins an elite group of Manchester restaurants recognised by the Michelin Guide, including: Maya, Oldham’s White Heart, Adam Reid at The French, Stockport’s Where the Light Gets In, El Gato Negro, Erst, The Sparrows, 63 Degrees, Higher Ground, ORME, OSMA, Another Hand and Mana.

For a restaurant so early in its journey, earning such an accolade is no small feat.

Who is head chef Tom Barnes?

Cumbrian-born Tom, a protege of award-winning British chef and restaurateur Simon Rogan, has an impressive CV.

He has worked in multi-Michelin-starred kitchens for most of his career, joining Simon’s team at L’Enclume in 2011 and quickly climbing the ranks from chef de partie to head chef in 2013 – the year in which the restaurant won its second Michelin star.

He returned in early 2018 as head chef at Simon’s neighbourhood Cartmel restaurant Rogan & Co. The restaurant was awarded its first Michelin star less than six months later.

Awarded the Roux Scholarship in 2014 at the age of 25, Tom chose Hof Van Cleve in Kruishoutem, Belgium as his prize stage followed by a stint at three-Michelin starred restaurant Geranium in Copenhagen.

In 2020, he was invited to compete in the 15th series of BBC2’s Great British Menu, where he won the main course at the final banquet.

Tom went on to support the Umbel Restaurant Group as executive chef, overseeing three Michelin-starred L’Enclume, one Michelin-starred Rogan & Co, Henrock and Home by Simon Rogan.

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You can book a table at Skof by clicking here