Favourite place to eat out in Manchester… Edinburgh Castle. It smashed the high expectations I went in with and with the chilled vibe it offers it really set the precedent for a great dining experience. The food balanced perfectly and the recommended drinks, especially the Irish coffee to finish, were top notch.
The best dish I've eaten in Manchester recently is… The roasted duck at Edinburgh Castle. Stunning. I could have said every dish I encountered their but the duck was presented well and the pairing with black quinoa, umeboshi and young leeks complemented it perfectly.
My favourite dining room in Manchester… I’d look no further than Six By Nico. Way too much to take in, but you don’t care. The service is spot-on, the atmosphere is unique, I love a place with an open kitchen and even though it’s a set-menu, you don’t feel like you’re in a fine dining venue. A great addition to the city.
Favourite lunch spot… It has to be Alston Bar and Beef. Cracking set menu on offer and one of the best places in the city to have a steak. Never had a bad meal here and it’s a great escape from some of the louder venues in the Corn Exchange. I love their kit so much that they’re going to be putting on a Caribbean BBQ at the Manchester Rum Festival next month.
If I could only eat one thing for the rest of my life… Cheese. Simple yet such a broad element to it. There are so many different options and I’m yet to find one I don’t enjoy. Austrian Smoked is my favourite, but give me a Stilton or a home-made whipped cream cheese and I’m in cheesy heaven. Bulls Head in Mobberley has yet to disappoint on their cheese selection, but I’ve heard the Mouse Trap in Ramsbottom could easily top this!.
Dave Marsland has over a decade of experience within the drinks Industry as a journalist, partner at Riddles Emporium (Altrincham), Bassano Bar at Pizza Express and Marigot Bay Bar and Café. He is the founder of creative brand agency Drinks Enthusiast and works with St Lucia Distillers. He is also a curator with Northern Restaurant and Bar trade show in Manchester (March 17 and 18).
LATEST: Manchester Rum Festival, due to take place on on Saturday April 4 at Viadux on Albion Street, has been called off due to the coronavirus crisis.