Manchester is set to welcome a new Pan-Asian dining experience. Shiruku will open in the former Firefly site in the New Bailey area next to Spinningfields.
Created by the team behind Ribeye in Manchester and Birmingham, owners have promised the 'ultimate' dining experience, blending 'authentic flavours from across Asia, with the freshest ingredients and innovative cooking techniques'.
The new restaurant concept replaces Firefly, the LA-inspired eatery and go-to nightlife spot which closed back in June. At the time of its closure, owners cites 'unsuccessful lease renewal negotiations' with the landlord as the reason for shutting.
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At Shiruku, guests will be able to try a selection of small plates and mains designed to take them on a 'journey through Asia’s rich culinary landscape'. Signature dishes will include beef teriyaki, spatchcock chicken, and a variety of sushi.
The menu will offer 16 small plates alongside 8 standout main dishes, with sides, soups and salads also available. Shiruku will also feature three private dining rooms that can seat 16, 18, or 22 guests.
Nodding to the theme, interiors will feature silk cloud-like pillows fitted to the ceiling and over 100 delicate pink butterflies dangling from above. As a centrepiece, a 1.8 meter fish tank with marine fish will also bring a calming energy into the dining area.
Sohail Kaushal, owner of Ribeye and Shiruku commented: “Our goal is to bring something fresh and innovative to Manchester, combining the richness of true Pan-Asian flavours. With Shiruku, I wanted to create a new dynamic to the market and a place where everyone can enjoy the authentic taste of Asia in a refined, inclusive environment.”
Firefly, which closed in June, originally opened as FoodWell, an all-day restaurant and bar space serving up a range of LA-inspired dishes and drinks. It's night-time concept, Firefly, became so popular that in 2020 owners rebranded it under this name.
A statement issued by owners at the time of closure read: "It's with a heavy heart that Firefly Manchester will close its doors at One New Bailey after unsuccessful lease renewal negotiations with the landlord.
"We have explored various alternatives and potential relocation options but unfortunately none were viable within the given timeframe.
"We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff and loyal customers for their unwavering support over the years and for making Firefly such a prominent part of the Manchester nightlife scene.
"We are now working closely with other operators to rehome the team."
Bookings for Shiruku are now open and booking is recommended. The restaurant is located at New Bailey, Suite 2, Ground Floor, One, Stanley St, Salford M3 5JL.
