"I have visited Ocean Treasure a few times since it first appeared in the Restaurants of Manchester Top 10 list. I've always questioned its inclusion because of the rather sterile decor, left behind by Numero, however I honestly can't name many better restaurants, let alone Chinese restaurants in Manchester, so would reluctantly agree it should be high up in there. At least that was until my most recent visit. When it first opened, the food was incredible however of late I've noticed a marked downturn. Presumably they've changed chefs as the dishes don't seem to be of the same high standard I first experienced.
On my last visit, we ordered from the very cheap Lunch Menu (£10 for 3 courses). The Salt & Pepper Ribs, which I always order, didn't taste like they usually do. They lacked seasoning and tasted very bland, certainly a first for me. They were served with hardly any garlic, peppers or onions and were very measly, in fairness. As I've ordered these at Ocean Treasure many times before, I certainly noticed something was missing however justifying this to my colleagues, who had joined me on my strong recommendation, was a bit embarrasing. Again, the Lamb with Ginger & Spring Onion was also lacking something. It was served warm and again tasted very bland. I think the chef may have left his salt and pepper pots at home and the sauce itself was a little gloopy, even sticking to the crockery. As always, the rice was nice and fluffy and the Tiger beers were cold.
As we ordered off the Lunch menu, we were told that there was no ice cream left and so only the other choice of a fruit platter was available. After a little sigh, we thought this was at least the healthier option and were greeted a couple of minutes later with a side plate of mucky grapes which, to make things worse, were not seedless. Not a nice way to end the meal.
I admit that I could have written countless good reviews of Ocean Treasure from previous visits however this visit was so bad, I felt I had to say something. If the food was to the high standard I normally receive at the restaurant, then the lunch time offer would have been fantastic value for money. Sadly, as the quality on this visit was very poor, I felt I was being short changed.
It would still make my Top 10 restaurants in Manchester however Sky Sports News being played on the casino floor, behind the glass partition, at a level the very freindly waiter can hear (and watch) between courses, whilst he gets the knives and forks ready for the evening service, is a real put off and takes the shine away from what is usually a fantastic restaurant.
I have had many a great afternoon and evening in Ocean Treasure and brought many friends along on my recommendation. But I found myself apologising on the way out to the rest of the party to be told "dont worry about it, it's not your fault, although we could have had just as good a meal, if not better, anywhere in China Town!" I had to agree, although I know on every occasion I have been before, my friends would have been eating their words." - James, Salford - TRUSTED REVIEWER (4/3/11 visited on a friday lunch)
