Salvi's, a popular Italian restaurant and deli in Manchester's Corn Exchange, closed on Sunday, July 26, after 16 years of trading. Owner Maurizio Cecco announced the closure on social media, confirming that the original and last remaining site for the brand had shut.
History of Salvi's
Salvi's was first founded in 2010 by Maurizio Cecco and opened a year later, becoming one of the original occupants of the then Triangle shopping centre before the Grade II-listed building returned to its original name in 2013. It was known as Manchester's first true Neapolitan eatery, serving dishes made with authentic Italian ingredients from its deli, mozzarella bar and restaurant.
Over the years, Salvi's expanded to sites in the Northern Quarter and Deansgate, but the Northern Quarter location closed in 2020, and the Deansgate Square site closed in August 2023. The Corn Exchange venue underwent a refurbishment in 2024.
Owner's announcement
In a social media post, Maurizio Cecco wrote: “For sixteen years, Salvi’s has been part of Manchester’s story. We’re incredibly proud of everything we’ve built together. As the city changes, independent businesses have to change too. Today will be our last day of trading at Corn Exchange. Thank you for everyone who has been part of our journey all these years.”
He added that Salvi's was not leaving Manchester entirely, stating: “This isn’t the end of our story, it’s the beginning of a new chapter- stay tuned. Grazie Mille.”
Customer reactions and awards
Regular customers expressed sadness at the closure, with comments such as “I can’t believe it! My fave!” and “End of an era!”. One person wrote: “Oh no so sad. I know u have other amazing dreams to realize. I wish you all the best for your new ventures.” Another said: “Thank you for all the amazing memories - this has always been my fav go to in town!!”
Salvi's received several awards, including Best Food and Drink Retailer at the 2016 Manchester Food and Drink Festival Awards and the Marchio Ospitalità Italiana award in 2017, a global honour from the Italian government for authentic restaurants. The family behind Salvi's also organises the Festa Italiana event, a city-wide celebration held each August in Cathedral Gardens.
