Skof

Skof is the most talked-about restaurant opening in Manchester for years, and for good reason. Helmed by Tom Barnes, former executive chef at Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume, this 36-cover restaurant brings fine dining with energy, warmth, and a personal touch to the city’s NOMA district.

Named as One to Watch in the 2024 awards, Skof offers two tasting menus alongside a four-course lunch menu, all rooted in hyper-seasonal British produce, much of it sourced from Rogan’s Our Farm. Dishes are elegant yet approachable, from Dexter beef tartare with coal oil to miso custard with mushrooms and roast duck with fig leaf.

The restaurant’s open-plan design reflects the contrast between Barnes’ rural Cumbrian roots and his new urban setting. The dining room is stripped-back but characterful, with parquet floors, exposed brick and an energetic soundtrack curated by Barnes himself.

Skof is supported by Rogan’s Umbel Restaurant Group but operated independently by Barnes. Personal touches abound, including artwork referencing his life and a boozy tiramisu dessert that pays tribute to his late father.