Cocktail Bar Review: Room, Manchester

I have wanted to visit Room bar for quite a while now. Ever since I saw it featured in Louis Vuitton’s City guide, I knew I had to have a little look at what all the fuss was about. In between countless cups of mulled wine and the festive cheer of the Christmas markets, my other half and I found ourselves at the bottom of a grand, sweeping staircase in a Grade II listed former Gentlemen’s Club.

 

At the top of the stairs we found the bar, sat proudly amidst wonderful high ceilings and vintage decor. Surrounding it was a plush seating area and behind the bar stretched a large and grand dining room. The balance of retro decor and a modern edge made for an extremely luxurious cocktail experience.

I perched myself on a high stool and browsed the enormous and eclectic cocktail menu in search of a little afternoon pick-me-up. Completely and utterly spoiled for choice I kindly asked the bar tender, or room service (see what they did there?) to recommend a fabulous tipple. His reply to my query was ‘I can’t make you a recommendation’ at which point he turned on his heel and sauntered back to the bar. Feeling a little shocked and tad embarrassed for asking, I picked the first cocktail that took my fancy.

Five minutes later sat in front of me my very own Aviation. To say my choice was a bit random and panicked, the medley of 24 Beefeater gin, Luxardo Maraschino liqueur, lemon juice and violette liqueur completely knocked my socks off. The only way I can describe it was a ‘vase of violet’s meets a gin and tonic’. It was fragrant, fresh and floral with an amazing citrus burst. As we sipped our drinks, a couple vacated two enormous, ornate seats that sat by the window looking out on to the surrounding beautiful buildings, at which point we took their place and absorbed the magnificent view. My next cocktail was a Disco Tu. Again, I was a bit overwhelmed by the vast array of cocktails so my better half picked this one out. It consists of Tosolini Amaretto, Chambord, Banana liqueur, citrus juice and pomegranate. This cocktail was incredible, so good that it actually loved itself. It was like an explosion of skittles, in the best possible way -light, fruity and delicately sour but at the same time packed a real hit with a citrus punch.

 

We sipped and chattered away the afternoon in what can only be described as a stunning setting. For me the cocktail is only as good as bar you’re drinking in and for decor and atmosphere, room bar most certainly delivers. My only criticism would be the bar staff, as I feel they lacked a personal and welcoming quality. However, that being said, I will most definitely be returning. Mines an Aviation.

4 STARS out of 5

Lauren

hungrytravelstyle.com