Fenix can be found in the vibrant heart of Manchester’s city centre, Fenix Restaurant is more than just a dining destination - it’s an immersive experience that seamlessly blends bold design, refined flavours, and world-class hospitality. Located in the buzzing Spinningfields district, Fenix offers an elegant escape from the city’s hustle, delivering a slice of the Aegean in a contemporary, upscale setting. From the moment you arrive, you know you’re in for something special.
As you approach the venue, the architectural flair of Fenix stands out. The exterior is sleek and modern, but it’s once inside that the real magic begins. The interiors are nothing short of breathtaking. Drawing heavy inspiration from Grecian influences, the decor manages to be both stylishly minimal and luxuriously textured. Think soft lighting, natural materials, and statement design pieces that nod to the Mediterranean - a warm palette of terracotta and cream, accented with polished wood and stone. The attention to detail is palpable, creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously relaxing and sophisticated.
The vibe inside Fenix is equally impressive. The space is split across two floors, with the lower level hosting a chic bar area where guests can enjoy a pre-dinner drink to the soft beats of curated lounge music. The crowd is effortlessly stylish, the staff are warm and professional, and the ambience buzzes with energy - it’s a place that feels alive, elevated, and perfectly in tune with Manchester’s cosmopolitan spirit.
"A Culinary Journey at Fenix, Manchester - Where Atmosphere Meets Excellence"
Our evening began on the lower floor with a cocktail to ease into the experience. I opted for one of Fenix’s signature drinks - the Mykonian Martini, a beautifully crafted concoction of Tanqueray 10, cucumber, lemon, and Greek herbs. It was refreshing, vibrant, and perfectly balanced - a true nod to the Mediterranean. To complement the drink, I enjoyed a chilled glass of Laurent-Perrier, which added a touch of classic elegance to the start of our evening.
Soon after, we were escorted upstairs to our table on the upper level. The dining area upstairs feels even more intimate, with a panoramic view of the open kitchen and a layout that allows each table a sense of space and privacy. The mood lighting and earthy tones make it an ideal setting for both romantic dinners and special occasions.
When it came to food, Fenix truly began to shine. For starters, I selected the Spicy Meatballs, which arrived perfectly plated in a rich tomato salsa and topped with a coriander yoghurt. The meatballs were juicy and full of depth, with just the right amount of spice to tingle the palate. The yoghurt added a cooling contrast that elevated each bite - a beautiful combination of comfort and finesse.
My partner chose the Grilled Octopus, and it was a showstopper. Served with a creamy Aegean split pea purée and finished with a parsley vinaigrette, the octopus was tender and charred just right, offering that ideal balance between smoky and succulent. The purée added a soft, earthy base, while the vinaigrette brought a touch of brightness to the dish. It was a true celebration of Greek culinary tradition with a modern edge.
For the main event, we decided to share the Lamb Leg-En-Clave - and what a showpiece it was. Weighing in at a generous 800g, it arrived beautifully presented. The lamb was cooked to perfection - fall-off-the-bone tender with a rich, aromatic flavour profile. Marinated with herbs and spices, every bite was succulent and deeply satisfying. It's the kind of dish that encourages conversation and indulgence, and it absolutely delivered on both.
To accompany the lamb, we selected two standout sides. The Spicy Sweetcorn - grilled and served with a spicy mayonnaise and parmesan - was sweet, smoky, and addictive. It had just enough heat to excite without overpowering. The Baby Potatoes with Graviera were another delight: pan-roasted to a crisp exterior, yet soft inside, and served with a velvety gruyere espuma that was indulgent without being heavy. Both sides complemented the lamb perfectly and could easily stand on their own as memorable dishes.
Though we were tempted by the dessert menu, we had overindulged and made the (slightly regretful) decision to pass. That said, our meal was paired beautifully with a bottle of Agiorgitiko Grand Cuvee from Domaine Skouras - a bold, structured Greek red wine that stood up to the richness of the lamb while offering deep berry notes and a smooth finish. It was a thoughtful touch that rounded out our meal with finesse.
Fenix is a revelation, from the dazzling interiors and vibrant atmosphere to the flawless service and, most importantly, the impeccable cuisine, it offers a truly elevated dining experience in the heart of Manchester. Every element, from cocktails to mains, reflects careful thought and culinary passion. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking to enjoy one of the city’s finest restaurants, Fenix is a destination worth savouring - and one we cannot recommend highly enough.
The Bill: £148 per head
