If you want a story of humble beginnings leading to great things, look no further than Manchester success story UNAGI. The team behind this beloved gem first began gaining attention back in 2020, when 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. Today, the company operates multiple sites, and in October 2023 opened a flagship restaurant back where it all started.
The space alone is worth a visit, before you start with the Japanese-leaning, pan-Asian menu. A long, thin, terrace-set establishment that could be confused for a luxurious garden room, large windows to the front maximise light inside this predominantly timber structure, with the kitchen running alongside tables giving customers full view of the magic being prepared by the exceptional chefs. Everything they serve has been carefully prepared to order, using only the finest quality fresh produce, with fish delivered each morning. Hence many people rating UNAGI as the best sashimi and sushi joint in the region. Which is saying something.
Special mentions really need to go to the mushu special, made up of katsu prawns, seared salmon, black tobiko and teriyaki glaze, the salmon deluxe — think the namesake fish, done three ways — and the spider Roll of soft shell crab, avocado and truffled 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. Beyond this, find a stack of smaller dishes on offer, from kimchi and karaage chicken, to crispy squid, unagi bang bang and crispy teriyaki tacos. Meanwhile, mains include katsu curries, teriyaki chicken, salmon and sirloin, chilli udon noodles, and a range of ramen soups.