Snazzy place, The Refinery. As the name might suggest, it’s refined, classy, and oozes a little muted glamour.
If you’ve not heard of it, you’re in for a treat. A favourite with those who like the finer things in life, it’s a little further down Spinningfields, tucked away beside Left Bank and it’s definitely worth the extra leg stretch.
The venue started out with a clean-cut crisp vision. The place is immaculately set out, with an outdoor terrace for those warm summer evenings and a drinks list to match. It’s also probably one of the best Friday nights out in Manchester.
It’s got all the ingredients for the perfect night out; live music, a buzzy atmosphere and the chance to completely kick back and unwind. And Fizz Fridays has just launched where you can get a bottle of prosecco for under 20 quid. Not too shabby.
These guys have thought of everything, from water bottles and homely blankets to wrap up in cooler weather and flickering candlelight on each table top. Where else in the city do you get that? Elegant details are well and truly everywhere. Rumour has it there are even truffles in the toilets. Nice touch.
The cocktails list is as long as your arm and the flavour combinations will kick off any night the right way.
It’s clear that every drink is prepared by experts in their craft. Beautiful in taste and presentation.
Cocktails are prepared from scratch, based on classic recipes – but not the predictable classics you see on every street corner. If the drinks we tried are anything to go by, the cocktail list is very strong. And not just in alcohol content.
Order yourself a Mojitocolada, or, if you’re feeling fruity, try the Tiki Punch. A couple of these and you’ll forget all about the stresses of 9-5 and kick off the weekend in the best way possible.
The interior decor is the epitome of Scandi chic. It’s modern and inviting, with fur throws, gold accented furnishings and monochrome tiled floors. It’s the sort of decor you scroll through on Instagram and wish you had in your apartment – a real home away from home.
The dining area is well laid out, too, so you have enough room to eat your meal without feeling like you’re knocking elbows with your neighbour.
The food speaks for itself. Everything is made to mouth-watering perfection, with fresh ingredients and real British flair. Mains on the Friday set menu include grilled salmon with a pecan crunch or lemon and pea risotto. But the piece-de-resistance has to be the creme brûlée shortbread. You’ll want to make the pilgrimage to The Refinery for this alone.
With Bottomless Brunch you can order any dish from the menu and make it bottomless for £15. This snags you free flowing Bellinis or Bloody Marys for £15. Can’t say fairer than that.
Whether you want to sing along to your favourite acoustic tunes or watch the sunset on the terrace with a glass of bubbly, you can be sure you’re in for a good time. The drinks list is extensive, the food is fresh, and the space is so big it suits everything from first date to dapper business meeting, from girly catch-up to lads get together.
See you at the Pinterest-worthy monochrome bar?