As Manchester continues its rise to sky-scraper heights, the city is upping its hotel and restaurant game at a fair pace. And CitySuites Aparthotel is certainly setting the standard.
Less than a five-minute walk from Harvey Nichols and Manchester Cathedral, the CitySuites complex consists of not one, but two luxury aparthotels – the first of its kind in Manchester City Centre. A sprawling glass display at the top of Chapel Street, the complex is a 5-star, contemporary space that offers family getaway packages, romantic city breaks, and everything in between.
I was ushered up to my 10th-floor apartment in CitySuites II by attentive staff, who go above and beyond to ensure you have everything you could ever want or need during your stay. There’s a 24-hour concierge service for over 100 apartments, including the cushy penthouses with wrap-around balconies on the 16th and 17th floors. Ideal for those feeling flush.
While luxury is the top agenda here, the meticulously designed apartments really zero in on home comforts; think polished, relaxed apartments with fully fitted kitchens, 50-inch TVs in each bedroom and lounge, White Company toiletries, Nespresso coffee machines, and the softest, thickest carpets you’ve ever encountered. Oh, and there are fantastic views of the Manchester skyline. No wonder some guests opt for a year-long stay.
But it’s not just the apartments themselves that make a stay here so enjoyable. There’s a LOT to be said for the onsite facilities too. The state-of-the-art Matrix gym (complete with inspirational quotes emblazoned on the walls), has everything you need to keep up with your workouts without skipping a beat. Plus, when you’re done getting sweaty, you can soothe those aching limbs in the jacuzzi and steam room, or take a dip in the 18-metre pool.
One thing to be aware of with the pool; as CitySuites II is popular with families, you may sometimes encounter a lot of loud children in the pool area, which may ruin the vibes of a romantic break. Hopefully some adult-only hours will be introduced at some point.
That aside, the complex is a joy to explore. There’s an open community space in The Lounge, and artisan coffees aplenty over at The Embankment Café, which is the perfect spot for those days you want to work away from the office.
For me, the crowning glory of CitySuites is the onsite restaurant, Embankment Kitchen and Bar. Sourcing the best ingredients the North West has to offer, Head Chef Josh Singleton and his team are on a mission to create solid, recognisable dishes with an elegant twist. Be sure to check out the current Spring menu, which offers plenty of high-quality dishes for veggies, vegans, and celiacs alike.
If you’re stuck on what to choose, I’d recommend opting for the garlic monkfish tail from the Spring menu, and finishing with the peanut butter and white chocolate brioche and butter pudding. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
While we’re on the subject of food – Embankment Kitchen also offers a stellar breakfast menu, which features everything from healthy continental breakfasts to crowd-pleasing classics. Think eggs benedict, full English, and shakshuka for those who like a little spice in the morning. Book a package stay with CitySuites and you’ll get your breakfast included.
As chic aparthotels go, a stay at CitySuites really does tick every box. It manages to seamlessly blend the facilities of an upmarket hotel with the freedom of a classic rented apartment, while offering a welcome sanctuary from the carnage of Manchester City Centre. Simple luxury without the pomp and frills, it’s high-end with home comforts.
Rates start from £120 for two sharing a Studio Apartment. To book, visit https://www.citysuites.com/en/citysuites-2/
Embankment Kitchen can be booked in advance at https://www.citysuites.com/en/food-and-drink/embankment-kitchen/
The Finer Things Club 