Just a 45-minute drive from Liverpool, Vermilion is one of those rare places that quietly sits off the beaten track — until you step inside.
What looks like a modest exterior hides a three-storey wonderland of bold design, rich flavours, and theatrical flair. Designed by Miguel Cancio Martins (of Buddha Bar, Paris fame), the interiors are unapologetically opulent: think gilded chandeliers, velvet textures, and immersive lighting that shifts the mood from sultry lounge to celebratory feast in seconds.
The menu is just as ambitious. Vermilion blends Thai, Indian, and pan-Asian influences with a fine dining twist, offering dishes that are as visually striking as they are satisfying. Highlights include the crispy Prawn Toast Bao Buns, rich Lamb Rogan Josh, and the Rainbow Dim Sum—vividly coloured parcels filled with fragrant spice and delicate textures.
For something playful yet refined, the Kurekure Bindi Fries deliver crisp okra with a tangy dip that hits all the right notes. And if you’re after comfort with a kick, the Drunken Noodles bring heat, depth, and a generous helping of attitude.
Dietary needs are handled with care and clarity. Vermilion offers vegetarian and vegan options, clear allergen information, and a team that’s happy to tailor dishes to suit individual preferences. The staff are a genuine highlight—attentive without being intrusive, and always ready to share stories behind the menu.
Whether it’s the origin of a rare spice or a chef’s personal twist on a classic dish, their enthusiasm adds a personal touch that elevates the whole experience.
The bar is a destination in itself. Framed by sleek metallic finishes and ambient lighting, it’s the perfect spot to settle in with a Moonlight Shadow or Crimson Mist cocktail. Mocktails are treated with equal respect—fresh, balanced, and grown-up enough to feel indulgent.
The bartenders are skilled and personable, often crafting bespoke drinks based on your preferences, making even a casual sip feel like something special.
No visit is complete without dessert, and Under the Volcano is Vermilion’s showstopper. A rich chocolate dome melts dramatically under warm sauce, revealing layers of salted caramel ice cream and peanut butter ganache. It’s a theatrical finale that perfectly mirrors the restaurant’s flair for spectacle and detail.
Despite all this grandeur, Vermilion remains surprisingly discreet from the outside—easy to miss if you’re not looking for it. But behind that unassuming façade lies one of Manchester’s most immersive dining experiences.
Whether you’re celebrating, exploring, or simply indulging, Vermilion invites you to step into something extraordinary. It’s not just a meal —it’s a moment.