Maya is still relatively new to The Village, but it’s upped the ante for a dining and/or drinking experience. On this visit we sampled the Sunday Roast. The Brasserie is housed in what used to be View Bar, below Leven Hotel, and it’s a fantastic addition with a touch of glamour.
Let’s clear the stage: If you want a quick in and out lunch this is not the place to go. It’s a relaxed venue and good food (as is on offer) can’t be produced immediately – even though there are time limits on table occupancy. Just relax, and rest assured you will not be ejected.
On this visit we partook of the Sunday Menu, and we were not disappointed. This has a few nibbles, more starters, a similar number of mains, and although we didn’t need a dessert, we took a collective one for the team, just to share.
Nibbles included Oysters with a very astringent vinaigrette, and a sour dough platter backed up with Chicken Fat butter. Truly decadent.
The starters were a very acceptable Duck Parfait (more toast would have been good – and it came on request), and a Crispy Chicken thigh. Both fantastic.
For the mains we had lamb (a very rare offering these days, given the price), and beef, both of which came with “all the trimmings” – being Yorkshire Puddings, Roasties, Cabbage, Glazed Carrots etc. All very good. I opted far medium lamb, and that’s exactly how it came. Ditto the beef.
We shouldn’t have had desserts, but we thought we needed to take one for the team, so we opted for the least calorific option. Both choices were good, but when you’re on a roll, why skimp? So… we went for the lighter elements on offer. Ice Cream with Cholate Honeycomb was just lovely. Chocolate Crémaux demolished my companion.
Wines are good. Not cheap, but the wines by the glass menu was fine. Of course, you can push the boat out as far as you want, and there are some superb items (at superb prices) that I doubt are available anywhere else.
Service at first glance looks formal. but our main server Liam immediately engaged and was friendly, knowledgeable and efficient in equal measures.Indeed, everyone who we came into contact with was similar.
Aside from the food (and wine), the venue is in a commanding position on the corner of Canal and Chorlton Streets. The Brasserie at ground floor level is just one space. Go down a floor and the main bar and restaurant will not disappoint, and there is a private area should that be needed. Descend further and the HUGE double height original engine space, THE VIBE is simply amazing.
For those of you with CANALSTCARDS , there are savings too and worth saying that those wishing to just enjoy a bottle of wine or cocktails, are welcomed to seats at the bar and windows.A great spot to people watch Canal St passers by.
Give it a go.
Paul Schofield for Canal Street Online.