Named after the utterly incomparable Japanese citrus fruit, which tastes pretty much like nothing else you’ve ever tried, Yuzu is a welcome addition to Manchester’s Far Eastern food scene in one of the city’s most atmospheric neighbourhoods. Situated a stone’s throw – well, just around the block — from Manchester Art Gallery, in the heart of Chinatown, this place is known for plating up delectable dishes made with authenticity in mind, and boasts a food and drink menu that you simply can’t find in many other establishments.
The talented team here make everything from scratch, and are quick to point out preparation time is at least half the working day as a result. Everything from the teriyaki and sashimi (kaisen) sauce is created on-site, as is the rice vinegar seasoning. Fish is delivered fresh each day, and this has given rise to an enviable reputation for incredible sashimi, although whether you choose a Yakitori, Kara-age, Gyoza, Tonkatsu, or Tempura option the flavours are going to leap out of the bowl. The menu itself is divided into small plates and larger meals, with top tips for the bigger portions including the Pork Yaki Udon and Tendon of king prawn and seasonal vegetable tempura.
Meanwhile, the Agedashi Tofu, Tonkatsu Pork Loin, and traditional Miso Soup are great shouts for tapas-style meals. Yuzu more than lives up to its name on the refreshments front, stocking a mouthwatering supply of rare and specialist alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. So, this is the spot to try Yuzu lager, Yuzu gin and tonic, or Yuzu sake, if you’re not punting for combining juice from the eponymous fruit with a ginger cordial or similarly suitable mixer. A real taste of Japan in the back streets of our hometown, understandably Yuzu has grown a very strong and loyal following since it first opened.
