Sir Alex Ferguson a guest as new Knutsford restaurant opens

Aiden Byrne, one of the nation’s top chefs, and wife, Sarah, hosted a launch party at LI~LY on Tuesday evening as a thank you to the community.

Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson was among the guests, which included Cheshire business leaders, friends and partners.

Aidan and Sarah Byrne with mayoress Carol Banks and mayor Cllr Colin Banks (Image: Nick Jones)

Knutsford mayor Cllr Colin Banks cut a ribbon to officially open the restaurant, nestled in a beautifully restored 300-year-old Grade II listed property.

The King Street venue was formerly home to Kampai Sushi Bar and Grill, and more recently, Mamma Mia.

Chef Aiden Byrne and wife Sarah will strive 'to make each guest feel like part of the family (Image: Nick Jones)

The restaurant name pays homage to the town’s river and reflects the couple’s commitment to celebrating Knutsford’s rich heritage.

Sarah said: “LI~LY is our tribute to Knutsford, where we’ve created a space that honours both the past and the present, with deep ties to the people and culture of this wonderful town.”

Sir Alex Ferguson is welcomed by Sarah and Aiden Byrne (Image: Nick Jones)

LI~LY offers a set six-course lunch menu and nine-course dinner menu that changes monthly, highlighting the finest seasonal ingredients.

Bookings can be made for lunch from Thursday to Saturday at £60 per person and dinner from Wednesday to Saturday for £90 per head.

Aiden Byrne with Sir Alex Ferguson, Martin Heaps and Sarah Byrne (Image: Nick Jones)

The culinary experience is enhanced with expertly paired wine selections curated to complement each dish.

Aiden said: “We wanted to create a place that not only celebrates the incredible produce and talent here in Cheshire but also embodies our commitment to sustainability and community.

The restaurant sources ingredients from Cheshire and surrounding areas (Image: Nick Jones)

“At LI~LY, every detail reflects our passion for exceptional food and hospitality.

“We’re excited to welcome guests into a space that feels rooted in the town's unique spirit and heritage and delighted to have received such strong support from the people of Knutsford.’’

Set menus will highlight the finest seasonal ingredients (Image: Nick Jones)

Sarah leads a front-of-house team of hospitality professionals, each a specialist in their own field.

Sarah added: “At LI~LY, we strive to make each guest feel like part of our family.

“Our team’s dedication to service and detail is what truly sets us apart.”

The restaurant has partnered with trusted local suppliers to reduce its environmental impact (Image: Nick Jones)

Sustainability is a guiding principle.

The restaurant sources ingredients from Cheshire and surrounding areas, partnering with trusted local suppliers to reduce its environmental impact.

The menu includes local specialties, with beer from Mobberley Beer Company, fresh vegetables and herbs from Growing @Field 28 in Daresbury, Mobberley based Big Hill Distillery with its supply of Spirit of George gin, and other carefully sourced ingredients from nearby farms and purveyors.

Every element reflects the Byrnes’ dedication to both quality and environmental stewardship.

Li~ly’s stylish and welcoming interior was crafted by the talented team at DV8 Designs.

This award-winning Cheshire interior design practice focused on preserving the Grade ll listed Tudor building original architectural features while adding a modern, elegant touch.

The team has created a space that’s both visually striking, refined and timeless with rich ivory and cream tones complimented by gold accents ensuring a bright and welcoming ambiance aligned to the vision of an understated luxury intimate restaurant.

LI~LY officially opens on Thursday, November 14 with reservations open for an unforgettable dining experience that celebrates both local flavours and global culinary excellence.

To reserve a table visit lilyrestaurant.co.uk.