The Wharf is a new addition to Manchesterâs Castlefield area. Fitting into the gastro-pub mould, the 250 cover, multi-storey venue overlooks the canal basin.
The site was previously home to Jacksonâs Wharf pub but it has been derelict for many years. New owners Brunning and Price, have done a good job of cleaning the site up, adding a large outdoor dining terrace (including a covered seating) as well as a new fountain and arena for playing boules.
Decoration includes coal fires, book cases and leather armchairs. The ground floor offers a traditional pub-type atmosphere while upstairs itâs more restauranty, although the menu is the same in both parts.
Simple, imaginative choice
Contemporary British pub food is pretty much the vibe. After marinated olives and stuffed sweet peppers, choose from pea, fennel and lovage soup (£4.75) or smoked salmon with Bloody Mary jelly and sourdough bread crostini (£6.25) followed by posh pub mains.
We like the sound of Old English pork sausages with mash, buttered greens and onion gravy (£10.95), honey roast ham (served cold) with free-range eggs and chips (£10.45) and the shredded duck salad with orange and pistachio nut and pomegranate dressing (£12.95).
To finish, Vimto jelly, apple Eccles cake with apple sorbet and Manchester tart (The Manchester Plate, £8.95) sounds like a treat. The Wharf currently offers eight cask ales on tap, 50 wine bins, and over a hundred malt whiskey. Expect a full review to follow shortly.
The Wharf, 6 Slate Wharf, Castlefield, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M15 4ST. Tel: 0161 220 2960, www.brunningandprice.co.uk