If you want a story of humble beginnings leading to great, if not strictly grand things, then look no further than UNAGI. The team behind this beloved hidden gem first began gaining attention back in 2020, which says something considering how distracted we all were back then about, well, you know what. Digressions aside, a collective of super talented chefs sprung on the idea to begin serving street bites from a small food truck located in the heart of epicurean Altrincham, and to say things blossomed from there would be a huge understatement — pop ups in Didsbury, Wilmslow and Salford Quays followed, before taking a punt on the current site.
If you want the definition of ‘in the know’ surely it’s the loyal customers that understand some of Greater Manchester’s best Asian dishes are being served in a car park on the border of Cheetham Hill and the Green Quarter. Here, UNAGI has transformed the location with a gated courtyard, heated outdoor seating terrace, and Ramen bar. Even if slam dunks aren’t your thing, the menu is among the city’s most beloved, and runs from hot plates like Katsu curries and wok fried noodles, Bang Bang Kaarage Chicken, Crispy Salt & Pepper Squid, and Japanese tacos (a firm favourite among returning clientele), to masterfully hand-rolled sushi.
Everything that comes out of the kitchen has been carefully prepared to order, using only the finest quality fresh fish which is delivered here each morning, earning UNAGI a reputation for the best sashimi and sushi in town. Special mentions must go to the Mushu Special, made up of yummy Katsu prawns, seared salmon, black tobiko and teriyaki glaze, the salmon deluxe — think namesake fish, three ways — and the Spider Roll of soft shell crab, avocado and truffle mayo. A big shout also for the incredible Mega Street Snack Boxes, filled with gyozas, chicken wings and more, or the full scale Omakase platter, a stunning marriage of Uramaki, Nigiri, Hosomaki and Sashimi. Finally, we can’t leave out the dedicated basketball zone, where customers are invited to shoot hoops while they wait, and compete in challenges to win a free lunch or dinner.