Capri’s Cucina Italiana
Johnny James, Managing Editor
The King Street area isn’t short of popular Italian restaurants, but none strike quite the same note as Capri’s, where you’ll be greeted like family and served some of the most authentic Neapolitan food in Manchester.
Inspired by the culinary traditions of its namesake island, Capri’s was launched in 2022 by business partners Giovanni and Frida, whose long stint in another Italian institution – Salvi’s – had just come to an end. The pair’s aim with their new venture was simple: to let quality, fresh ingredients lead in the creation of a little piece of Italy, tucked in the heart of Manchester.
Most guests of Capri’s will be given a warm Italian welcome by Giovanni himself, whose passion for both food and hospitality is genuinely endearing. Seated, you’ll notice the elegant blue décor (a nod to the seas surrounding Capri), with soft lighting and rustic touches evoking the ambiance of a traditional trattoria. But close your eyes and you’ll still feel a long way from Manchester; many of your fellow diners will be speaking their native tongue of Italian, which itself says a lot about the food on offer here.
On the menu, dishes steeped in Neapolitan culinary heritage sit alongside those with contemporary twists. The pizza dough is made fresh and cooked in a wood-fired oven for a rustic, satisfyingly crispy crust, while the interior is supple and chewy. The meticulously-crafted pasta dishes are things to be savoured, the finest and freshest ingredients coming to life in classic combinations.
Being named after an island, Capri’s also does seafood very well, with that-morning’s catch of prawns, squid and seabass all stars of the menu. But vegetarians are well catered for too, with our personal favourite veggie dish being the wonderfully rich ‘Risotto con funghi porcini’. And whatever you do, don’t skip dessert – the tiramisu, pannacotta and cannoli all sum up what Capri’s excels in: simplicity done incredibly well.
From the charming staff to the laid back atmosphere and exceptional food, Capri’s is an Italian’s Italian restaurant for a reason. Bellissimo.
