The family-run restaurant with an 'instant welcome' rising from the ashes of an Arndale fire

There is an instant welcome that awaits you when you walk into Hong Thai for the first time. Owner Lilly beams a smile from the back of the kitchen as she comes to greet you at the door, and you immediately know that you’re in good hands.

Despite having only just opened their Ancoats restaurant on Oldham Street this week, it feels like they have always been there. But for the last six months, Hong Thai has not existed in any capacity at all.

Having been based within the Arndale food markets for seven years, Hong Thai quickly grew up a fast reputation for their homemade, fresh and scrumptious delights inspired by Hong Kong and Thailand cuisine. But their success came to a grinding halt back in November last year following a fire at their unit.

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Announcing in January that they would be permanently closing their base at the shopping centre due to the extent of the damage caused, Lilly, whose real name is Lilia Tsang, said her 'heart was broken' over the decision and fans of their food were equally as distraught.

But just an hour spent in their new restaurant, which is situated opposite the Royal Mail sorting offices, is testament to the fact that people have not forgotten about Hong Thai in the months since then and now.

People flock in and out of the restaurant, showing their appreciation for Lilly and the staff, and explaining to her that they have missed the likes of their Pad Thai, teriyaki chicken and Thai curries. In fact, one man, who pops into the store as the finishing touches are being made ahead of the official opening day on Friday (May 24), tells Lilly he has been counting down the days until he can