Robert De Niro, alongside fellow founders of Nobu Hospitality, Chef Nobu Matsuhisa and Meir Teper, marked a significant milestone in Manchester on December 20, 2025, by breaking ground on the highly anticipated Nobu Manchester. The ceremony took place at the site of the future tower, which is set to become the tallest building outside London at a remarkable height of 246 metres. This monumental project represents a collaboration between Nobu Hospitality and Manchester-based property developer Salboy, co-founded by Fred Done and Simon Ismail.
The Nobu Manchester project is poised to reshape the skyline of this vibrant city, introducing a luxury experience that combines world-class dining with upscale living. The development will feature a signature Nobu restaurant, a 160-room luxury hotel, and 452 branded residences. Designed to revitalize a 40,500 square foot brownfield site, the tower will seamlessly blend modern architecture with the rich industrial heritage of Manchester.
Transforming Manchester’s Urban Landscape
As the partners celebrated the groundbreaking, they emphasized the importance of this project for the city. The Nobu restaurant will be situated on the ground floor, nestled among the original Grade II listed Victorian viaduct arches, which will enhance the dining experience by incorporating the city’s historical features. Chef Nobu Matsuhisa, who opened his first restaurant in Los Angeles in 1987, remarked on the significance of this venture: “Breaking ground in Manchester is a defining moment for Nobu in the UK. Our first venture beyond London aligns perfectly with Manchester’s dynamic spirit.”
The Nobu Residences Manchester will also introduce the luxury real estate market in the UK, featuring refined Japanese-inspired interiors and premium amenities such as an exclusive swimming pool and a podium garden that offers panoramic views of the city. This marks a new chapter for Nobu Hospitality, which has expanded its brand globally since the opening of its first restaurant in New York in 1994.
Commitment to Excellence in Hospitality
Fred Done, Co-founder of Salboy, expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Ten years ago, Simon Ismail and I founded Salboy with a clear vision: to change Manchester’s skyline. This landmark project is exactly what we wanted to bring to the city of firsts.” Simon Ismail added, “Chef Nobu’s influence on our culinary tastes cannot be understated, and I am eager to see how he and his team will incorporate local produce and influences from the Northwest’s culinary heritage into their dishes.”
The groundbreaking event signifies not only the start of construction but also a collaboration with award-winning designers, Bowley James Brindley, to create interiors that reflect both Nobu’s commitment to quality and Manchester’s cultural identity. As construction begins, with enabling works already underway, Salboy anticipates launching sales for the Nobu Residences Manchester in 2026.
This project represents a significant investment in Manchester’s future, aiming to attract both property buyers and visitors seeking sophistication and luxury. The partnership between Nobu Hospitality and Salboy underscores a shared vision of elevating Manchester’s status on the international stage, promising to deliver an authentic Nobu experience to both locals and tourists alike.
