One of Greater Manchester’s most talked-about dining destinations, The Martlet Kitchen, is turning a year old on 23rd September , and to celebrate, they’re getting into a spin within the gothic grandeur of Rochdale Town Hall…
In the face of a challenging climate for hospitality within the region, which has sadly seen a plethora of much-loved local venues close due to increasing financial pressures and tightening purse strings, the stunning venue – which serves up modern British cuisine with a northern twist – has gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months, attracting diners who are keen to experience the epic interiors and incredible, great value fine dining, which is all cooked up by Exec. Chef Darren Parkinson and his team. 
Since opening just one year ago, The Martlet Kitchen – which has received critical acclaim from well known restaurant reviewers such as Jay Rayner – has welcomed over 67,000 guests, serving up more than 1,200 afternoon teas, 3,000 pies, 1,700 portions of fish & chips, and almost 2,000 Sunday roasts.
What began with 480 visitors in its opening week has grown to 1,500 diners served in a single week this month (September 2025) – proving The Martlet is no longer Greater Manchester’s best-kept dining secret, and putting Rochdale firmly on the culinary map within the wider region.
Niall Grindrod, commercial manager of the venue, said: “Looking back on our first year, since The Martlet Kitchen opened its doors last September, I’m extremely proud of how it’s helped bring a new energy to Rochdale Town Hall and the town centre.
“The response from visitors, national press, influencers and food critics has been fantastic, and it’s clear the restaurant is playing a key role in putting Rochdale on the map. A special thanks from me to all of our dedicated, fantastic teams who have worked extremely hard to build the reputation and success we have today.”
From 22nd to 26th September 2025, every guest who dines during daytime hours will get the chance to spin The Martlet Kitchen’s Birthday Wheel – and EVERY spin is a guaranteed win!
Prizes include foodie favourites like free desserts, coffee and cake, cream teas, prosecco, Peroni, and gift cards – as well as discounts on future visits and even entry into a mega prize draw to win a Friday night dinner for two with three courses and a bottle of wine – all on the house.
The restaurant is set within the breathtaking confines of the recently restored Rochdale Town Hall – a grade 1 listed Victorian-Gothic masterpiece that is world-renowned as a marker of incredible British architecture, it has even been featured on iconic TV shows such as Peaky Blinders. With its sweeping staircases, wood-panelled walls and ornate features, it provides the very grandest backdrop to luxe autumnal dining.
Book your table now – https://www.rochdaletownhall.
