Trafford Centre has officially unveiled its new dining development, dedicated solely to homegrown restaurants, in a first for the centre.
The newly refurbished ‘Eastern Garden’ area, in the Upper Orient, showcases independent brands from across Greater Manchester, including Nichi, Chit ‘n’ Chaat, Hello Oriental restaurant and bakery, and Blanchflower Coffee and Bakery.
Diners can expect a vibrant and visually stunning dining destination, blending traditional and contemporary aesthetics, including a canopy of beautiful cherry blossom flowers.
Simon Layton, Centre Director at Trafford Centre, said: “We’re thrilled to officially welcome these homegrown restaurant brands to the centre, who represent the best of the best in the dynamic culinary scene of Greater Manchester.
“We know that our guests love combining a day of shopping, leisure and dining at the centre, so we’re confident that our new Eastern Garden dining destination will prove popular for visitors looking for an exciting and vibrant dining experience.”
Nichi
Nichi, a contemporary Japanese dining experience with a Peruvian twist, was born in Manchester and opened its flagship 3,000 sq ft restaurant in the centre in late 2024. The restaurant offers a premium, immersive dining experience, specialising in sushi, live robata cooking and tableside flambé. It will also feature a mezzanine level for private omakase dining and boasts a late licence, with live DJ performances on weekends.
The homegrown brand is led by a seasoned team. including Head Chef Kentaro Yanagisawa, coming from renowned restaurants Sexyfish and Nobu.
Hello Oriental
Renowned Mancunian street-food hall, Hello Oriental, opened its first branch just off Oxford Road. Founded by Ricky Yip and Azim Koura, the menu boasts over 100 dishes including popular East Asian street-food and traditional favourites, ranging from dim sum to noodles to Cantonese roast meats and also includes a full kids’ menu.
Chit ‘n’ Chaat
Born and bred in Greater Manchester, Chit ‘n’ Chaat occupies a 2,000 sq ft unit in the centre, its fifth location in the region. Since its inception in 2020, Chit ‘n’ Chaat has been passionate about delivering authentic, Indian street food. Known for serving delectable Indo-Chinese dishes, Chit ‘n’ Chaat prides itself on creating lasting memories through exceptional food.
Blanchflower Coffee and Bakery
Founded by Phil and Claire Howells, Blanchflower has its own bakery in Sale, producing bread, cakes and pastries. Opening in the coming weeks, from cruffins to Bakewell tarts, focaccias to homemade granola, diners can enjoy a mouthwatering selection of seasonal items all handmade by a small team of bakers and pastry chefs using locally sourced ingredients.
