Manchester Social 101 was invited to review the latest member of the ‘must-see’ Manchester restaurants.
Although Manchester Social is invited to a number of restaurants from across Manchester to review, we were particularly excited about this one due to the buzz surrounding it!
Artisan is set in a vast 12, 000 square foot, semi-industrial space on the first floor of Tower 12 in Spinningfields. Cooking goes back to basics in the fire, this is casual dining at its best. Think artist’s loft studio meets concrete warehouse: stripped back and raw. Showcasing sculptures, murals, art installations and furniture from the very best artists and craftsmen. As we moved up the staircase into the restaurant, our expectations were only raised further.
Fire is at the literal heart of the restaurant, with two wood ovens burning throughout the day and night. Artisan offers a modestly priced, rustic menu to pick over or feast on. Flamed meat, fish and unusual pizzas come straight from the fire, everything will be prepared in front of you before being thrown into the flames. The team of chefs take cooking back to basics; with fresh, interesting ingredients cooked using age-old primal techniques.
We ordered a bottle of its house sparking wine and were escorted to a table.
The drinks menu boasts a collection of innovative cocktails, which are served from a truly unique 20 foot long bar. Sitting alongside a small, but perfectly formed, selection of wines, spirits and beers. The spacious, informal bar sees a selection of DJ’s playing on its inbuilt decks throughout the week.The restaurant was unusually hot due to the hot weather, however I completely appreciate that we went to review Artisan on one of the hottest days of the year, so this is completely beyond the restaurant’s control.
I ordered the pork and my colleague ordered the fish. Both were undeniably exquisite!
The fish was presented in a kind-of ‘calzone’ casing, which we were advised ensured that all of the flavours were retained. The pork was served with a mustard sauce and the most creamy mash I’ve ever tasted.
Tim Bacon, Living Venture’s Managing Director, describes his driving passion to create something different, something that Manchester has never seen before. He says of Artisan: “It’s the people, the art and the food, you should always leave with a story.” Whether a tale from a night spent feasting with friends on the Captain’s Table or a strip of pictures from the photo booth.
Open all day, every day, serving brunch on weekends as well as lacing the city with music and drink into the night; Artisan truly embraces Manchester’s thriving creative scene and produce real, honest dishes from its open kitchen. The restaurant’s blend of bucolic values and culture will provide a different experience with every visit.
Manchester Social 101 fell in love with Artisan and will most definitely be visiting again!
The mean was offered to Manchester Social 101 on a complimentary basis, however all views expressed are our own.
**Manchester Social 101 paid for the bottle of sparking wine
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