Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
Riva Blu is a contemporary Italian restaurant and cocktail bar located in Manchester's historic Corn Exchange. The venue features an open kitchen, stylish dining area with industrial ceilings, and a terrace for outdoor dining. Specializing in classic and signature Italian dishes prepared with premium ingredients, the restaurant offers an authentic modern Italian experience. With a full cocktail bar, extensive wine selection, and smart casual atmosphere, it caters to diners seeking quality Italian cuisine in the city centre.
A brief summary to Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
- The Corn Exchange, 11 Corn Exchange, Manchester, M4 3TR, GB
- +441618274200
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-10 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-10 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance, especially for weekends and special occasions. The restaurant fills quickly, and reservations ensure prompt seating and table availability.
- Arrive early if you plan to enjoy cocktails at the bar before dining. The bar atmosphere is particularly lively during pre-dinner hours.
- If you have dietary restrictions, inform staff immediately when ordering. Discuss cross-contamination protocols for allergies and intolerances to ensure safe meal preparation.
- The terrace offers a pleasant outdoor dining option during mild weather. Request a terrace table when booking if weather permits.
- Explore the wine list with staff recommendations. House wines offer excellent value, and staff can suggest pairings for your chosen dishes.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
A Modern Italian Haven in the Heart of Manchester
Riva Blu occupies a prime location within the Corn Exchange, one of Manchester's most vibrant shopping and dining destinations. The restaurant sits within walking distance of the AO Arena and the city's premier retail outlets, making it an accessible destination for both locals and visitors. The venue's contemporary design blends industrial elements with Mediterranean touches, creating an inviting atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and approachable.The Dining Experience and Culinary Approach
The restaurant's open kitchen design allows diners to observe the culinary process, adding theatre and transparency to the dining experience. Riva Blu emphasizes the use of premium ingredients in crafting both classic Italian dishes and signature creations that reflect modern interpretations of traditional recipes. The menu spans antipasti, pasta, risotto, meat, and seafood options, with particular attention to authentic Italian flavours and preparation techniques. The kitchen demonstrates flexibility in accommodating dietary requirements, including gluten-free options, though cross-contamination protocols vary.Atmosphere and Social Spaces
The dining area features an industrial aesthetic with exposed ceilings and an open layout that creates a lively, contemporary environment. The restaurant includes two bars—one dedicated to cocktails and aperitifs, the other to wine service—allowing guests to enjoy pre-dinner drinks or digestifs in dedicated spaces. A terrace provides outdoor seating during warmer months, extending the dining experience beyond the interior. Background music complements the atmosphere without overwhelming conversation, and the moderate noise level suits both intimate dinners and social gatherings.Beverage Selection and Bar Culture
The cocktail bar is a significant draw, offering creative drinks crafted by knowledgeable staff. The wine list features carefully selected Italian and international options at varying price points, with house selections offering good value. Signature cocktails and digestifs such as limoncello provide traditional Italian finishing touches. The bar culture extends beyond alcohol, with quality soft drinks and coffee service available throughout the day.Service Standards and Hospitality
Staff training emphasizes menu knowledge, particularly regarding dietary requirements and ingredient composition. The service style is attentive, with servers monitoring tables regularly and responding promptly to requests. The management team actively engages with guests, particularly during special occasions, and demonstrates willingness to address concerns and make adjustments when needed. Service pacing varies, with some guests noting quick turnaround times between courses.Accessibility and Practical Considerations
The restaurant operates from noon daily, extending to 10 PM on Sundays and 11 PM Thursday through Saturday, accommodating both lunch and evening dining. Smart casual dress is appropriate, and the venue accepts reservations through multiple platforms. The Corn Exchange location provides good public transport connectivity and proximity to Manchester's city centre amenities, though specific parking information should be verified independently.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Owen Statue
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The Undamaged Red Post Box
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Mulberry Passage
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John Bright Statue
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Albert Memorial
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Statue of the Duke of Wellington
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Manchester City Council
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Connaught Building
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St. Peter's Square
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Arch of Chinatown
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Free Trade Hall
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Peterloo Massacre Monument
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The Beacon Of Hope
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Alan Turing Memorial
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Unmissable attractions to see
Exchange Sq
0.1 km
Manchester’s bustling Exchange Square blends historic resilience with vibrant shopping, seasonal markets, and cultural buzz in the city centre.
National Football Museum
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Cathedral Gardens
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Manchester Cathedral
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The Mitre Hotel
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Chetham's Library
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Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
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Manchester’s largest indoor shopping centre, with over 200 stores, restaurants, and leisure options in the heart of the city.
Market St
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Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
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A serene urban sanctuary in Manchester’s Northern Quarter offering meditation, wellness, and a unique sober bar experience.
AO Arena
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Barton Arcade
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St Anns Square
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NQ Mural
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Once Upon a Smile
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DNA VR Manchester
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Step into Manchester’s premier VR arcade where immersive games, escape rooms, and free-roam adventures bring virtual worlds to life.
Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Hoot
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Menkind
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Amazonas Gifts
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Søstrene Grene
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Pulse
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Deadstock General Store
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&made
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Casual
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Industrial Designs
- Modern Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Business Friendly