Ilkay Gundogan’s wife says Manchester’s restaurants are ‘horrible’ and serve ‘frozen food’

Ilkay Gundogan’s wife has ruffled feathers this week with her opinion on Manchester’s restaurants, which she says are all ‘horrible’. 

Sara Arfaoui, who married the Manchester City captain earlier this year, was asked on Instagram Stories where her favourite eating spots are in the city.

However, the twenty-seven-year-old Italian national revealed she was yet to discover a ‘good restaurant’ in Manchester, adding that everywhere sold ‘frozen’ food.

She wrote: “Sorry… I’m sad to be honest but nothing. I tried so bad to find a good restaurant but… horrible food everywhere.

@sarabenamira / Instagram

“Can’t find a real Italian or good sushi or just fresh food… everything frozen. Restaurants here are just focus on making money with drinks and shot like night clubs not quality food.

“Maybe in London but in Manchester nothing. I’m sorry.”

Sara’s comments were met with a wave of backlash by dedicated Manchester foodies, with renown food critic Jay Rayner even wading into the argument.

He responded: “This is a ludicrous point of view. Manchester’s packed full of brilliant, independent restaurants.

@sarabenamira / Instagram

“It’s an absolute gem of a place to eat and comments like this during difficult economic times are not helpful to businesses struggling to make ends meet.”

One local restaurant owner also reportedly contacted her directly, only for Sara to double down on her remarks.

The owner said in a message: “There’s so many great restaurants in Manchester. I suggest you do research before you speak.

“And only because your husband is a footballer and you have money and you have everything probably paid for and a great life given to you here in Manchester.

@sarabenamira / Instagram

“You should be grateful for that instead of slagging restaurants.”

At this, the model hit back: “So because we are successful people we can’t give an honest opinion?

“I tried all the best restaurants here but for me it’s a no. I can’t lie. Unfortunately I’m used to Italy so you can imagine it’s hard to compare.”

She added: “It’s a great city, great people but not for restaurants.”