Hollywood icon Robert De Niro is set to leave an indelible mark on the United Kingdom's architectural landscape with a monumental new development in Manchester. The acclaimed actor, who co-founded the global luxury brand Nobu, is spearheading the construction of a breathtaking 76-storey skyscraper that promises to redefine the city's skyline.
A Towering Achievement in Urban Development
Once completed, the impressive 246-metre Nobu Manchester structure will comfortably surpass the current tallest building outside London—Deansgate Square's South Tower—and secure its position as the nation's third tallest edifice. This £350 million project represents a significant investment in Manchester's future and is scheduled to commence construction this year, with anticipated completion before 2030.
Luxury Living and Hospitality Combined
The development will house an exquisite 160-room hotel alongside 452 privately-owned serviced residences, offering unparalleled luxury accommodation in the heart of the city. A signature Nobu restaurant will provide world-class dining experiences, cementing the tower's status as a premier destination for both residents and visitors.
Robert De Niro expressed his enthusiasm for the project during a visit in November 2025, telling the BBC: "I look forward to coming back when it is finished, if not before. I think it is going to take six years and I plan to be around." The star added warmly about Manchester: "I haven't seen the city yet but I'd like to come back. Everyone is very nice, we're having a very nice time. It's great being here in Manchester because it has real character, we're proud to be part of it."
Dual Development with Community Focus
This ambitious project actually comprises two distinct buildings. Alongside the main tower, a secondary 23-storey structure on Great Bridgewater Street will feature 133 residences specifically targeting the affordable housing sector. This dual approach demonstrates a commitment to both luxury development and community needs.
Manchester City Council leader Bev Craig highlighted the significance of De Niro's involvement, remarking to the BBC: "It's not everyday you watch Robert De Niro take out an apartment in Deansgate is it?" She praised the venture as "a symbol that international businesses are choosing Manchester," adding: "It is a boost—we've said for a long time we wanted to be a world-class city and if you want to be a world-class city you've got to get global names. The fact we are seeing global names—not just actors—but global businesses that only go to cities where they will be successful is a big boost for Manchester."
The Nobu Empire's British Expansion
Nobu Manchester represents the company's inaugural hotel and residential venture in Britain. The Manchester restaurant will serve as the brand's second British establishment, following the successful Nobu London location. This expansion signals growing confidence in the UK's luxury hospitality market.
From Celebrity Hotspot to Global Empire
The Nobu story began in 1994 when Robert De Niro partnered with chef Nobu Matsuhisa and businessman Meir Teper to create a Japanese-Peruvian fusion restaurant. Interestingly, when De Niro first proposed the partnership in the late 1980s after regularly dining at Matsuhisa's Los Angeles establishment, the chef initially declined the offer. However, Matsuhisa eventually embraced the concept, giving birth to what would become a celebrity magnet.
Decades later, Nobu continues to attract A-list patrons including Leonardo DiCaprio, Oprah Winfrey, David and Victoria Beckham, Rihanna, and Kim Kardashian. The hospitality empire has grown exponentially to encompass more than 50 restaurants and 40 hotels across the globe, with Manchester now joining this prestigious portfolio.
This development not only represents a significant architectural achievement but also serves as a powerful statement about Manchester's growing status as an international destination for luxury investment and urban development.
