The Black Friar

The Black Friar is a brand-new venue where the food matches the aesthetics of the location and both are stunning.

One of the high profile launches in hospitality recently was the opening of the beautifully refurbished Black Friar Pub.

After an initial incident with a crashing car (which delayed the launch a few days) the venue opened with a slightly muted fanfare. A couple of weeks later, we were invited to sample the launch of the grazing menu of small plates. We arrived, slightly wet. We were warmly greeted and aided with our sodden umbrellas, we were then quickly seated passing the extensive and impressive bar, where both servers cheerily welcomed us.

By the time we arrived at table, the WOW factor had kicked in as 'The Tardis' revealed its secrets.

The restaurant is part of the new-build at the back of what was originally the iconic Salford pub and a lovely, open, 40 seater terrace has also been added. The extension also contains a visible open kitchen and a second indoor seating area.

The stylish and comfortable seating is complemented by equally stylish tableware and real linen napkins which are always a hit with us. The lovingly bound menus begged us to open them and reveal.

The small plates are ideal for lunch and offer a good choice of dishes and we chose four. Details are here.

PIGS HEAD CROQUETTE, MAC + CHEESE BITES, CRISPY TEMPURA OCTOPUS + SQUID and CRISPY CHICKEN BAO BUN were all delivered quickly by our two servers, who clearly delighted in an opportunity to tell us all about our choices and the brief history of their new employers. Lovely

enthusiasm.

Despite our largish appetites, we took some time to clear our plates as portions here are generous and the quality extremely high.

Reluctantly we were encouraged to try desserts and thank goodness we did.

We could have chosen any on offer and finally plumbed for 72% VALRHONA CHOCOLATE FONDANT and TIRAMISU. No words, just try for yourself.

Prices here are marginally on the upside, but worth every penny for such an experience and no-one should be deterred from a visit.

There is no onsite parking although 3 good sized car parks are close by and you can walk from Deansgate in just 10 minutes.

All and all, this is a new must for hospitality lovers and whilst booking is not essential with walk ins welcome, it is always a good idea at busier times.

LGBT friendly? A quote from Operator Neil was "weekends here are like Canal St".

Lovely too, to see   SARAH CONNELL ART on the walls.

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO REVEAL THAT CANAL ST CARD HOLDERS WILL SOON ENJOY BENEFITS HERE TOO.

Iain and Tom for Canal St Online.

Published: 22-Aug-2021 (6333)