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We are very fortunate in Britain to enjoy such a wealth of different cuisines. This is something it is easy for us all to take for granted. Countries that have strong national, regional and local traditions still in place may each have their own distinctive cuisines, but the surety of tradition, wonderful though it is, can be something of a straitjacket. Indeed, what many such countries lack is the sheer variety of cuisines that is so widely available to us all in the UK, and especially in the North West.  

Manchester is one of the most exciting and vibrant cities in Europe. The dining scene here is equally exciting, reflecting the fabric and flavours of a multicultural capital, and offering the chance to travel the world through the range of different cuisines on offer. I love it. The strength and sheer variety of Manchester dining is reflected on the pages of this guide, and there really is something for everyone, at all levels.

People often ask me where my inspiration comes from. My training and my palate are classic, but without doubt world influences are important. Inspiration and ideas come in part from being able to experience, taste and gain flavour profiles from so many different world cuisines – French of course, Italian and other European, as well as Japanese, Chinese, South East Asian, Mexican and many other delicious national and regional kitchens. As a chef you never stop learning and the result is a style of cuisine that is unique to me, and which has earned two Michelin stars at my flagship restaurant Gidleigh Park, in Devon. Many of the dishes that I create at Gidleigh Park inevitably find their way onto the menus of my other restaurants.  

The past four years have been an important period not only for the development of ABode Hotels and Michael Caines (we are now in Chester as well as Manchester), but indeed for the food and drink industry as a whole here in the North West. Restaurants are buzzing, chefs are on the television, food festivals are attended by thousands and artisan producers of quality foods are finding an eager market. People here really do care, more than ever, about the quality, styles and types of foods they choose to eat.  

Manchester is not just a centre for the arts, fashion, music and football. In recent years, it has emerged as a destination to experience a food and dining culture that is second to none. I urge you to use this guide to explore Manchester, to eat the world, to enjoy and be inspired.