GiGi Gusto Griglia Grill Room and cocktail bar has opened in Manchester, transforming the former Gusto restaurant inside the historic City Library building off Deansgate, which dates back to 1878. The venue is described as a "re-imagining" of the landmark Gusto, with interiors inspired by the "glamour, energy and style of Italy's golden age".
Glamorous new interiors and Bar Eleganza
The new look features huge chandeliers, intimate booths and a new Bar Eleganza concept complete with a DJ booth. At the centre of the bar area sits a classic baby grand piano, giving 1950s Italian hotel bar vibes, with live music set to be a key feature of the venue.
The restaurant has been brought to life by hospitality heavyweights, including renowned Manchester chef Sam Astley-Dean in the kitchens, creating a new classic Italian grill menu that includes pizza, pasta and elevated grill dishes.
Signature dishes and opening events
At the opening events this week, guests were able to try some of the signature dishes on the menu, including truffle pasta, classic pizzette, and a monkfish, prawns and steak platter.
Jamie Barber, founder of Cherry Equity Partners and an investor on Netflix's My Million Pound Menu, created GiGi Gusto Griglia. He said: "I wanted, quite selfishly, to build a restaurant I want to go to, somewhere I can sip a proper Negroni, share handmade pasta and pizzette, listen to great music and finish with a well-rested piece of rare-breed steak."
A proper night out
Barber added: "From the kitchen to the piano, bar to the DJs and management, every part of GiGi is designed around the pleasure of eating, drinking and staying out. That's why we've spent the last year working with the best talent in Manchester to create something truly special alongside beautiful interior design from the well renowned Russell Sage (Gordon Ramsay / The Savoy) who bring timeless, classic and lavish finishes."
He continued: "We have huge respect for where Gusto came from and the people who grew up with it. GiGi is the next step on. More glamorous, more ambitious, and a proper night out."
Chef Sam Astley-Dean said: "The menu is built for sharing, in the spirit of Italian famiglia dining. The dishes feel familiar, but the quality of the produce and the care taken in the kitchen make them special. It is proper cooking, served generously and without fuss."
GiGi is located on the corner of Deansgate and Lloyd Street and is now open.
