Comptoir Libanais Manchester

The first branch of this Lebanese chain outside the capital, Manchester’s Comptoir Libanais occupies a huge, colourful space that feels immediately inviting. It opens for breakfast, then meze plates and mains are served throughout the day. We especially love the feast menus, which let you try several small sharing dishes. Smoky baba ganoush arrived spiked with jewel-like pomegranate seeds; marinated grilled halloumi was alluringly squeaky and salty; and spicy, plump Armenian sausages came paired with sweet pomegranate molasses. Char-grilled chicken wings were given a kick of heat from harissa and garlic sauce, while oven-baked flatbread was topped with tender minced lamb. Tabouleh and fattoush salads added fresh, zingy notes to the platter. Finish with sweet, sticky baklava pastries tempered by fragrant, refreshing rose mint tea. A very welcome addition to upmarket Spinningfields, Comptoir Libanais is an attractive place to hang out, whether for snacks, cocktails or a leisurely meal.