Manchester restaurant recommendations please!

[gluenotsoup]

Hi
I’m planning a family meal for 4, 2 adults, a 9 year old and 16 year old dd.
It will be a celebration of dh turning 50, dd turning 16 and would like something a bit nicer than the usual, but something for everyone.
I’m pondering Gaucho or the Ivy, has anyone been or can recommend anywhere else please?
Not Indian, something where dd9 can find something simple as she’s going through a fussy phase.
Also, in Manchester itself, rather than travelling back out will be best.
Thanks!

Hawsmoor or San Carlo are the two that immediately spring to mind for me. There are fancier fine dining places but they might not be as accessible for your 9yo.

Second Hawksmoor, our then-9 year old loved his steak and fries, and got to try oysters! They do burgers as well.

Masons, The Refuge... maybe Piccolino near the town hall?

Oh another Italian option is Cibo (where Rosso used to be at the top of King Street/spring gardens)

Was going to suggest the ivy, good for family / kids, nice but not extortionate. They also have an ivy aisa.

Ivy will be a fun treat for your child. It's very bling and Manchester but in a fun way. Lots of tropical decor. Food is reasonable but the service is great. It's not gourmet but it's fun and will give you all great memories

San Carlo is very good and also good for smaller children/appetites if that's what you also want but without being dumbed down. We used to take DD there a lot when she was around that age or younger, it's one of her favourite places in Manchester.

Second The Ivy Roof Garden it's lovely.

Ooh, thank you! These are great! I did look at Hawksmoor but it might be better on the pre theatre menu (we’ve got tickets for wicked next year).
They both like a rare steak, so that’s a definite option, as is Italian.
16 year old dd will probably like the idea of the ivy, is it nice for a 50 year old man too?😆

The ivy is very good at what they do but it is really just an overpriced chain.

I was wondering that, but equally it does look nice and I’m trying to appeal to quite a range!
Is there anywhere else you could suggest? 🙂

I agree with this , I dont see what all the fuss is. I have been twice , the food is nice but not as good as all the fuss makes out.

I should of added , tho I haven't been myself , I have heard some very good things about Higher Ground near picadilly Gardens.