Some restaurants simply belong to a city, and after more than 25 years in Manchester, Gaucho is one of them.
Set within a beautifully converted 19th-century church just off Deansgate, Gaucho Manchester has long been known for its Argentinian steaks, glamorous interiors and lively atmosphere. Now, following a major transformation, the restaurant has entered a new chapter – and it’s looking rather fabulous.
The redesigned 205-cover restaurant feels warmer, softer and more contemporary, taking inspiration from the landscapes and spirit of Latin America. Earthy tones sit alongside natural timber, rich marble, atmospheric lighting and brushed gold, with Gaucho’s signature forest green adding just enough drama.
Importantly, the redesign hasn’t taken away any of the character that made this particular Gaucho so special. The original church architecture remains very much part of the experience, including the magnificent organ overlooking the split-level dining room, while the mezzanine provides elevated views over the restaurant below.
The theatre continues in the renewed open kitchen, putting the grill firmly on show. Overseen by Culinary Director Anthony Ekizian, the menu naturally retains the steaks for which Gauchois famous, including its signature Churrasco, alongside lighter Latin American-inspired dishes.
King Prawn Sugo, Scallops with lemongrass, chilli and mango, Seabream with corn humita and Flat Iron Chicken with Macha and lime all feature, although for us, a visit to Gaucho without ordering steak would be difficult. Beautifully seasoned, perfectly cooked and melt-in-the-mouth tender, it’s still what they do exceptionally well.
One of the biggest changes is the new 47-seat bar, and this isn’t simply somewhere to wait for your table. Marble, warm timber and low lighting create a glamorous standalone space, complete with a DJ booth and programme of live music and DJs. It’s equally suited to an early evening drink, pre-dinner cocktail or staying considerably longer than originally planned.
Gaucho has also partnered with Belvedere Organic Vodka to create a dedicated Martini Bar. The Manchester-exclusive Nectar & Neon Martini combines Belvedere with honey for a smooth, floral finish, while at the more extravagant end, the Belvedere 10 Luxury Martini pairs Belvedere 10 Rare Vodka with Vault Coastal Dry Vermouth and a 10g spoonful of premium caviar. There’s also an extensive collection of Argentinian wines and cocktails including the Margarita Picante with chimichurri salt and an indulgent Tiramisu Espresso Martini.
Despite the glamorous new surroundings, what hasn’t changed is Gaucho’s knack for feeling special without being stuffy. Service is polished but genuinely friendly, and there’s an energy that feels unmistakably Manchester.
During the week, it works equally well for a business lunch or dinner; come the weekend, the atmosphere shifts up a gear as the bar fills and the restaurant becomes a livelier affair. For private celebrations, The Mendoza seats up to 11 guests, while The Hive accommodates up to 20.
After more than a quarter of a century in the city, Gaucho could easily have relied on its reputation. Instead, its transformation feels like a confident new beginning. The setting is beautiful, the bar gives us another reason to visit, and those steaks remain as tempting as ever.
Gaucho Manchester // 2A St Mary’s Street // Manchester // M3 2LB
www.gauchorestaurants.com // 0161 833 4333
By Beverley Uddin-Khandakar
