Sora Manchester

The story

Sora Manchester Rooftop Japanese Dining & Sushi Bar

The kitchen and menu

Perched above Manchester, Sora brings its rooftop Japanese dining concept directly to the Deansgate quarter. The kitchen builds its service around sharing plates that alternate between chilled sushi selections and hot Robatayaki grill offerings. Guests navigate a menu centred on Pan Asian small plates designed for casual tasting rather than rigid multi course structures. This steady approach to technique and consistency secured a one rosette award from the AA for culinary excellence.

Drinks and pairings

The bar programme supports the food with a focused selection of signature cocktails built to stand up to smoky char and rich sauces. Visitors typically order these mixed drinks alongside the fresh fish platters or the charcoal cooked proteins served straight from the robata. The beverage list avoids unnecessary complexity, sticking to house blends and classic spirits that complement the Japanese flavours without overshadowing them.

Space and surroundings

Diners sit beneath an open roofline that frames clear sightlines toward Manchester Town Hall and Albert Square. The interior design draws from mid century British styling, placing G Plan furniture pieces next to bold geometric textiles and heavy wood finishes. Striking artwork occupies the walls, providing a sharp visual contrast to the raw concrete and steel visible through the perimeter windows. The floor plan allows easy movement between lounge seating and standard tables.