Hidden from Thomas Street, this little gem is hard to find – it’s part of the beauty. Everyone loves to find a place and claim it their own, donning the menu.
“Rustic French ‘peasant food’ at its best.”
Found in the Northern Quarter, Montpellier’s has wonderful service. Down-to-earth but a flip side to that ‘we’ll try to be friendly but maintain our attitude because we’re cool’ type of service subject to the Northern Quarter, mentioning no names.
The French-influenced food in this former underwear factory includes a croque monsieur, stuffed with Parma ham and generously coated in a creamy cheese sauce, melted by blow torch and teamed with French mustard on the side for just £7.95.
Fresh deli sharing boards featuring manchego cheese, citrus olives, chorizo pan fried in red wine, balsamic vinegar with a surprising sweet after taste, chefs own duck pate, sun-dried tomatoes and red onion marmalade (£9.95 for a board of 5).
The Montpellier (a favourite) – prime cut marinated steak on a ciabatta, warm blue cheese on the side and seasonal wedges sprinkled with paprika (£10.95). And for those of you looking for brunch the sounds of Montpellier’s Duck Egg and Crème fraiche omelet’s makes a lovely alternative (£7.95). Rustic French ‘peasant food’ at its best.
Meanwhile, Montpellier hosts a beautiful classic collection of European oldie world wines. Including a gorgeous French Malbec – a well known full bodied Bordeaux red wine known for its purple grape, inky dark in colour and robust tannins. Amongst other traditional wines and ‘home measures’ of liquor.
Atmospherically, the lunchtime vibe is comforting and perfect for relaxing and socialising whilst listing to great music such as Haim and MGMT.
In addition to the restaurant upstairs, their basement boasts a TV lounge good for watching the football off the beaten track for those with a little more appetite than just breaking bread. Not to mention a stage for live music and open mic nights perfect for enjoying with a beer or cocktail.
Montpellier’s is a subtle Mancunian nod to the je ne sais quoi of the South of France.
Sorry for potentially ruining your secret.
Location
Back Turner Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1FR
Contact
0161 832 3146