If you’ve ever been to Manchester favourites such as the Sticky Walnut or Burnt Truffle, you might note many of the same pleasing attributes in Kala Bistro – like warm service, contemporary interiors and fuss-free food that just tastes good. The reason is that they’re all linked, a series of sibling sites that manage to achieve consistency through a thread of high standards while each achieving an individual personality with little décor nods or unique menus.
Perfectly placed in the centre of town, Kala Bistro is one of the city’s best spots for private and group dining. While there isn’t a separate room for private dinners, guests have the option to grab a group table in the main space (which is lovely given the guaranteed buzz of fellow food enthusiasts filling the dining room on any given night) or take over the restaurant in its entirety for something altogether more exclusive.
Whether you’re looking for a private dining space or a place to grab a group table for friends, colleagues or clients, Kala Bistro offers a relaxed spot in which to entertain. Interiors are contemporary and stylish, adding an air of ease. Either go with it as it is or choose to dress things up by speaking to the events team about bringing in decorations or entertainment.
When it comes to the food there are wonderful, please-all plates that make for an ideal sharing spread. Think snacky bits like olives, anchovies and salted almonds to snack on, followed by generous helpings of beetroot and ricotta salad, flamed mackerel with dukkha spice and roased purple carrots with smoked honey and feta for starters. Come mains and there are seasonal delights such as pan-roasted pork ribeye or mushroom ragu on Parmesan and lemon thyme polenta. Dessert brings classics like crème brulee, chocolate sponge or honeycomb ice cream with a dark chocolate sauce.