While the jury remains out on whether or not Deansgate is the epicentre of Manchester, this wide avenue carving out a route from Castlefield though to Victoria and Cathedral Gardens is certainly up there with the city’s most iconic and famous roads. Given its history, which, to some extent, dates all the way back to the ancient Roman fort of Mamucium, that’s hardly surprising. And in the 21st Century this street is home to a plethora of reasons to visit. One of which is Suki Suki Street Food, an independent bar and eatery with a real passion for pan-Asian cuisine.
“From soft fluffy buns to finger-swiping noods,” the team tell us when we ask what they do. Situated in a vibrantly-fronted unit on the street side of Great Northern Warehouse, Suki Suki’s windows are emblazoned with ever-changing eye-catching imagery, from chopsticks riding on a line drawing interpretation of The Great Wave off Kanagawa, to characters bathing in bowls of ramen soup, cocktail in hand. This artwork speaks volumes about the overall atmosphere and attitude — which is fresh, youthful and energetic. A strong nod to the bustling and wonderfully chaotic streets of East Asia that inspired the place to begin with.
Suki Suki’s remit changes throughout the day, from a quick lunchtime munch, to a late night ‘out out’ fix-you-up or more relaxed meal at a slower pace. It works just as well for all three, with people flocking here to experience the market-style setup. Alongside ramen, the bao buns, pad thai, honey & chilli pork belly, karaage chicken with miso mayo & lemongrass honey, and long stem broccoli with miso butter are all big hitters. But you can also find salt & pepper wings, gyoza (duck or veg), prawn tempura, kimchi, yaki udon, Thai holy basil and steak canton among the excellent, mouthwatering options here.