For most of us, sushi falls into one of two categories: the restaurant sit down experience or the convenient takeaway meal deal sushi, which often leaves a lot to be desired. Enter Rolled, one of the newest players on the Manchester food scene, promising a fresh and vibrant take on sushi with an Australian twist.
Founded by Adam, with the help of his brother and Marketing director JJ, Rolled brings the concept of Aussie-style sushi to the UK. “It’s the Australian version of a sandwich,” Adam explained as we sat down for coffee with the brothers.
“In Australia, Sushi rolls are unavoidable; everyone has them.” Both brothers were shocked that this handheld, portable version of sushi was yet to make its way to the UK. When asked; why Manchester? The brothers said: “London is expensive, and Manchester is really happening right now. The people here are proud, so we wanted to be founded here.” Adam moved to Manchester to progress in his career but saw this city as the perfect launching pad for Rolled. It was clear from the offset, the pair loved their business, and sushi.
Their first store opened in the Trafford Centre food court in August 2024, and just a month ago, they launched their second location in the city centre, within the Arndale Centre. This location aims to target students, businesspeople, and everyday shoppers. The new store has already attracted a loyal following of all ages, drawn in by the convenience and affordability of Rolled’s freshly prepared sushi.
The menu currently boasts nine sushi rolls, though more are in the works. One standout is the Bondi Roll, named after the iconic Bondi Beach. This inventive combination of Salmon, egg omelette, and avocado makes for an unexpectedly delicious bite at breakfast or lunchtime. We also got to try the Chicken Teriyaki roll, the Cucumber and Avocado, and Crispy chicken rolls. It was difficult to pick a favourite – the Bondi Roll and Chicken Teriyaki were however particularly memorable, packed with fresh, unique flavours in every bite. We paired these rolls with a splash of soy sauce and wasabi for an even bigger taste explosion.
When asked how Rolled can appeal to students in Manchester, we found that there were two key factors: health and cost. The sushi rolls are priced around £3.50 each, cheaper than an average meal deal from the supermarket, that often leaves us unsatisfied. There is no limit to how many rolls are purchased, so one or three for lunch is entirely up the consumer. This makes for the ideal grab-and-go meal, whether you are headed to class or just looking for a quick healthy bite.
“It’s all about simplicity”
Health-conscious eaters will appreciate the variety too, as all dietary concerns are considered. A range of halal, vegetarian, vegan, and traditional fish options are all freshly made each morning. “It’s all about simplicity,” says JJ. “You don’t need to bring lunch, just pick up a few sushi rolls, and you’re sorted.” Their simplistic approach to sushi will resonate with students who want to enjoy all these flavours, at a significantly lower cost to a restaurant. This is the only thing rolled lacked – seating. Understanding their business model of a grab-and-go service justifies this, but poses the question, will there, one day, be no place to sit in with friends?
Rolled also offers a loyalty card for its’ customers. Buy eight rolls, and your next two are free. If this isn’t incentive enough to return regularly, maybe the Bondi Roll will be.
Rolled Trafford is open Monday-Saturday 11am-8:30pm and Sunday 12-6pm. Rolled Arndale is open Monday-Saturday 10:30am-8pm and Sunday 11:30am-5:30pm.
