The Reinvented Manzi’s Has Arrived in Soho

The original Manzi’s was one of the most beloved restaurants in London for over half a century, standing proudly just off Leicester Square from 1928 until 2006. A few years ago, The Wolseley Group (formerly Corbin & King) cooked up a plan to launch a reincarnation, which has finally come to fruition. 

The Reinvented Manzi’s Has Arrived in Soho

Located at Bateman’s Buildings, a wide alleyway running south from Soho Square, the new Manzi’s will pay homage to its predecessor, keeping the focus on seafood. Classic dishes on offer include moules marinière, Dover Sole and a catch of the day, alongside modern additions such as stuffed calamari in tomato sauce, and a New York shrimp burger with spiced mayonnaise. There will also be a selection of larger dishes designed for sharing, including a monkfish wellington, a fish stew, and roast mixed shellfish. 

Alongside the fish, a selection of meat and vegetarian dishes are on offer. There’s roast chicken with potato rosti, for instance, as well as rib-eye steak, and Moroccan vegetable tagine.

Being located in the heart of London’s West End, the restaurant is sure to be a popular spot with theatregoers – and there’s a special set menu designed for pre or post-show dining. 

Drinks, too, will include nods to the original restaurant – with some fun new twists. The Retro’s Revisited cocktail list sees Manzi’s classics brought back to life, including an Old Cuban made with aged rum, lime juice and champagne; and the Naked & Famous, blended with mezcal, fresh lime, Aperol and yellow chartreuse. 

The restaurant spans two floors, with suitably glamorous interiors and large windows allowing plenty of natural light. Nautical touches are seen throughout: a colour palette of soft blues, whites and sea greens is used across the venue, walls are adorned with sea creatures, and the lobby features a mural from Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea. 

The idea for a new Manzi’s originally came from Jeremy King of Corbin & King, the restaurant group which helmed prestigious eateries including The Wolesley and Brasserie Zedel. However, King left the group last year alongside co-founder Chris Corbin. Manzi’s is the first new opening from the Wolseley Hospitality Group since it changed owners. 

Bookings are available now at manzis.co.uk