Manchester’s Wing’s Restaurant: A Star-Studded Culinary Journey

The Wing’s Lincoln Square restaurant in Manchester has become a culinary hotspot for football stars and celebrities alike. Founded by Daniel Chu, the restaurant has evolved from its modest beginnings in Cheadle Hulme to a favorite dining destination for the city’s elite, including Premier League players and entertainment icons.

Initially opened by Chu’s father, Chu Wing Shing, in the late 1960s, the original restaurant served as a stepping stone for a remarkable journey that would intertwine with Manchester’s football culture. The turning point came in 1998 when former Manchester United defender Jaap Stam became a regular patron. His presence paved the way for other football stars, such as Sun Jihai and Dong Fangzhou, to frequent the establishment.

A Star-Studded Reputation

Today, Wing’s boasts a blend of local and international diners, all drawn to its sophisticated atmosphere and exquisite Cantonese cuisine. The restaurant’s interior features a striking red polished bar and a wine cellar stocked with premium vintages. Notably, the walls are adorned with signed plates from football legends like David Beckham, Wayne Rooney, and even Diego Maradona, reflecting its deep-rooted connection to the world of sports.

Footballers often choose Wing’s as their go-to spot for post-match meals or casual outings. The restaurant has earned its reputation as an unofficial canteen for football royalty. Notable guests include Mick Jagger, Liam Gallagher, and Sharon Osbourne, among others, each having left their mark through signed plates or photos.

Culinary Delights and Unique Offerings

The menu at Wing’s emphasizes authenticity, with all sauces crafted from original family recipes and every dim sum item handmade by skilled chefs. Signature dishes like perfectly cooked scallops with garlic and glass vermicelli, as well as crispy duck with pancakes, showcase the culinary excellence that keeps patrons returning. Furthermore, a variety of vegetarian options cater to diverse preferences.

The restaurant also features unique Mancunian-Cantonese mashups, such as the popular salt and pepper platter, which includes chicken, ribs, squid, and prawns. Football stars have their favorites, with Ryan Giggs favoring chili lamb and Sir Alex Ferguson enjoying soft noodles, as noted by the signed plate that hangs on the wall: “You have brought a new dimension to Eastern cuisine.”

A recent anecdote involving Wayne Rooney further highlights Wing’s popularity. During a broadcast of Match of the Day, Rooney recounted a casual family meal disrupted by the arrival of Micah Richards and his entourage celebrating a milestone. The resulting publicity led to a spike in interest, overwhelming the restaurant’s website with traffic.

Despite the challenges posed by Manchester United’s absence from European competitions this year, which typically attract international visitors, Wing’s continues to thrive. Daniel Chu acknowledges that the restaurant’s enduring appeal lies in its combination of discreet service, well-spaced tables for privacy, and a consistently high-quality menu.

The essence of Wing’s success can largely be attributed to Chu’s dedication and work ethic. Balancing a degree in molecular genetics with hands-on experience in the restaurant, he embodies the spirit of the establishment. “I worked in oncology research during the day and helped my dad in the evenings,” he reflects, emphasizing his commitment to preserving and enhancing the family legacy.

As Wing’s continues to flourish, with a loyal clientele and a growing collection of signed memorabilia, the future looks bright for this Manchester gem. With a family history steeped in hard work and passion, there is every reason to believe that Wing’s will remain a cornerstone of the local dining scene for years to come.