'With a heavy heart': Popular Spinningfields restaurant and nightlife spot confirms closure

An LA-inspired restaurant which had become a go-to nightlife spot has confirmed its closure. Firefly, based at the New Bailey development, just over the bridge from Spinningfields, closed its doors yesterday.

Confirming the news to the Manchester Evening News in a short statement issued this afternoon, founder Christian Coates said it was with 'a heavy heart' that the business was closing. The statement cited an 'unsuccessful' lease renewal.

The site originally opened as FoodWell, an all-day restaurant and bar space serving up a range of LA-inspired dishes and drinks. It's night-time concept, Firefly, became so popular that in 2020 owners rebranded it under this name.

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In a statement shared with the Manchester Evening News, owner Christian Coates wrote: "It's with a heavy heart that Firefly Manchester will close its doors at One New Bailey after unsuccessful lease renewal negotiations with the landlord.

"We have explored various alternatives and potential relocation options but unfortunately none were viable within the given timeframe.

"We would like to express our deepest gratitude to our dedicated staff and loyal customers for their unwavering support over the years and for making Firefly such a prominent part of the Manchester nightlife scene.

"We are now working closely with other operators to rehome the team."

The business was launched in 2019 as FoodWell, an LA-inspired 'mindful' dining experience alongside a wellness studio hosting yoga and pilates. The huge space at the New Bailey development featured space for 120 diners, as well as 60 outside.

A palm-shrouded terrace with twinkling fairy lights welcomed diners into the space, which served a range of detox bowls, cold-pressed juices and cocktails.

It's evening concept, Firefly, a late-night offer with 'Californian tapas', cocktails and DJs became so popular that Christian and the team decided to re-brand the restaurant under this name and concept from 2020 onwards.

Launching the concept in 2019, owner Christian Coates said he wanted to offer 'a balanced approach to wellness', and 'to encourage people to nourish their bodies and souls during the day - but to feel free and let their hair down at night'.

Menus featured culinary influences from across the globe, and were divided into 'dawn' and 'dusk', the former 'celebrating the sunrise and daybreak' with a range of sliders, curries, sushi and brunch options. It's late-night offer of sushi and tapas was accompanied by an extensive drinks list featuring cocktails, a Tanqueray selection, mocktails, wines, sprits and soft options.

Salford City Council, the landlord for the building, has been approached for comment.