India Buildings, 8 Brunswick St, Manchester, M3 3BN
Harden's says
High-end Japanese set to open in the former Randall & Aubin site, with sentaku (a ala carte), kaiseki (set menu) and omakase (chef's table) options - the name translates as ‘infinite possibilities’.
Harden's survey result
Summary
It’s all change at this “beautiful restaurant with incredible Japanese food” which has operated for two years now on a site that was formerly Randall & Aubin (RIP). As of autumn 2024, the original chef Michael Shaw has departed and it is about to undergo major expansion so we have left it un-rated. Under the new plans, it is to be divided into three separate experiences. Kaji (see also); a new space will house MUSU Miyabi, led by chef-patron Steven Smith – formerly of the well-known Freemasons at Wiswell – which given his renown promises to be a major launch in itself; and also MUSU Theatre of Omakase, under executive sushi chef Andre Aguiar.
Summary
“A real feast for the senses and already very popular”; “a quite incredible fit-out for this newish opening” is just one of the attractions at this October 2022 debut, on the site that was previously Randall & Aubin (RIP), but which has been subject to a £3.5m refit. The name means ‘infinite possibilities’: here, that translates into seven-course or eleven-course Japanese omakase menus for up to £150 per person – “expensive to visit but quite fabulous ingredients prepared by Michael Shaw and his team” (he was previously at a traditional pub in Lydgate, near Oldham so this is quite the change, but his pedigree includes stints at Le Manoir, Ramsay’s Aubergine and Richard Neat). In a March 2023 review, The Guardian’s Grace Dent declared it “gigantically ambitious and pointedly bonkers”, resembling “nothing so much as the Starship Enterprise, albeit one with geishas on the walls” and with “outstanding… Japanese food served in the manner of Le Manoir… Every bowl is a minuscule portion of exquisite pleasure”.
Summary
Open from November 2022, this exciting-sounding arrival occupies the site that was previously Randall & Aubin (RIP), now transformed into a very ambitious Japanese restaurant, under chef-patron Michael Shaw. Musu translates as ‘infinite possibilities’ – here that’s translated as an à la carte, 7-course or 11-course kaiseki menu; or an omakase experience delivered at a special six-seater counter, looked after by head sushi chef, Andre Aquiar. Delicacies will include A5 grade wagyu beef and wild, certified bluefin tuna. At the weekends a more drinks-led operation is planned.
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Have you eaten at MUSU?
Owner's description
Welcome to MUSU, a vibrant contemporary Japanese restaurant and bar. Whether you’re seeking a delightful dining experience or simply looking to unwind with a refreshing drink, our doors are open to all. Explore our diverse menus offering enticing à la carte options and a carefully curated tasting menu. And for those who prefer a standalone bar experience, we invite you to indulge in our wide range of cocktails, beers and wines.
Prices
 Drinks |
|
|---|---|
| Wine per bottle | £30.00 |
| Filter Coffee | £3.00 |
 Extras |
|
|---|---|
| Bread | £0.00 |
| Service | 12.50% |
India Buildings, 8 Brunswick St, Manchester, M3 3BN
Opening hours
| Monday | CLOSED |
| Tuesday | CLOSED |
| Wednesday | 5 pm‑12 am |
| Thursday | 12 pm‑2 pm, 5 pm‑12 am |
| Friday | 12 pm‑2 pm, 5 pm‑12 am |
| Saturday | 12 pm‑2 pm, 5 pm‑12 am |
| Sunday | CLOSED |
