A small oasis has opened in the middle of the large (soon to be completed) development at Kampus. Sitting on ‘stilts’, Higher Ground is the brainchild of high profile operators Joe Otway and Richard Cossins. With their commitment to sourcing the finest, sustainable products with North-West ingredients, Manchester brewed beer and natural wine, this brand new venue has already made its mark in Manchester and it is easy to see why.
We opted for the special offer put together for holders of a Canal St Card, which consists of a glass of house wine, with an Oxtail Madras pasty or a seasonal vegan or vegetarian plate. £10 per guest between 5pm-6.30pm.
The pasty, Joe tells us, was inspired by his travel experiences and his desire to put a twist on its better known Cornish version.
Both of us immediately responded to the aromas generated by the Oxtail and the wonderful taste that was to follow.
The Madrasty was a winner for us with good flavour without overpowering the palate.
The white Rioja which accompanied, was definitely the right choice and was equally delicious.
We wanted/needed more and chose a pair of the small dishes from the free standing blackboard brought to table. Soon our Celeriac Salad, with blood orange with bay leaf and the Curing Rebels N-DO-YA? rye-bit were delivered.
Again, subtle flavours were enjoyed with thin slices of celeriac perfectly matched the blood orange segments and the bay leaf dressing was nicely subtle but not at the expense of taste.There is plenty of flavour in all dishes it seems, as coincidentally some friends arrived and were similarly impressed by their choice
Also, it seemed strange to be looking at a rainy canal, complete with geese, as well as staring across at No1, Velvet and the brand new The Brewers. A very different perspective and one that you can only access, at present, from a window table at Higher Ground.
Classic music tracks and super friendly service from Meg, as well as Richard and Joe all help create a unique vibe.
The conversion from a former security hut to this intimate bar and restaurant has been a great success and we heartily recommend a visit asap; before any forced trading limits are introduced.
Walk-ins and reservations welcome and remember to show your card on arrival.
More here and to book https://higherground.dinesuperb.com/