Rooftop Sora in Manchester

Sora: sushi and cocktails on the roof of the Malmaison Deansgate

On the roof of an Albert Square hotel

Despite its name, the Malmaison Deansgate has its address on Princess Street, very close to Albert Square and the neo-Gothic Town Hall. On its roof, Sora brings together a Japanese restaurant, a cocktail bar and a terrace that looks out over the Town Hall and the skyline of the centre. Poseur tables, lamps and plants make up a stylish setting, particularly popular at sunset; inside, the dining room opens onto the rooftops through large windows.

Sushi, robata and Japanese-style cocktails

The menu is all about sharing: nigiri, sashimi and maki, skewers grilled on the robata and small plates, from bao to sushi tacos. The signature cocktails are all £14, from the peach and lychee spritz to the cherry blossom negroni, by way of the shiso old fashioned and the banana and miso espresso martini. On some afternoons, a Japanese-style afternoon tea combines sushi with matcha and miso sweets (£35, £45 with a cocktail). In the evening, resident DJs and guest musicians set the tone.

Practical information

Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, open on other days from noon and until late at weekends; check the opening hours before you go. Booking recommended, as the venue is often full. A private dining room hosts group meals, and the whole roof can be hired. The St Peter's Square tram stop (Metrolink) is a few minutes' walk away.