Jennie McAlpine and partner Chris Farr have opened their new Manchester restaurant, Annies. Located within the iconic Royal Exchange Annies aims to provide a home from home with a classic British menu in stylish surroundings. With a classic, cosy British feel, wooden paneling, low lights and autumn tones, the interior is designed to feel instantly relaxing, much like visiting an old friend.
“I can’t believe it’s almost ready! We’re really excited to finally be opening Annies to the public. Chris and I have been working on this project for over a year now, from finding the right space to working on the refurbishment and planning the menus and overall look and feel of the restaurant.” Jennie
Annies menu reflects this ethos with classic, homely dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. Executive Chef Richard Moore has presided over kitchens across the North West and has a very clear remit in mind.
He commented: “Simply put we want to serve the sort of food people want to eat. Traditional and delicious English dishes such as hotpot & slow braised lamb shank, perfectly prepared without any pretense.”
Starters include Bury Black Pudding Spring Rolls, Potted Ham Hock and Seared Scallops. For main course, there’s a selection of pies, including Three Cheese & Onion, Cabbage Patch Pie, Steak & Ale and Fish. From the Annies Classics menu, options include Salmon & Smoked Haddock Fishcakes and Fish, Chips & Mushy Peas. There’s also an a la carte menu, which features Pan Fried Loin of Cod, Fillet of Sea bass and Loin Pork Chop.
Annies also has a private dining room that allows up to 20 guests to dine in comfort with access to the VIP bar. It will also be available to hire throughout the day for functions or business meetings.
For lunchtimes, there’s a two or three course set menu, as well as a light bites option, featuring Welsh Rarebit, Crispy Fried Squid with Garlic Mayonnaise and Homemade Sausage Rolls with a Sweet Tomato Relish. Afternoon Tea, Champagne Tea and Traditional Cream tea is also served daily.
Jennie added: “It’s difficult to pick my favourite thing from the menu but I can confirm the Annies hot pot is pretty amazing!”
Visit anniesmanchester.co.uk
