The new opening on High Street is a garden-inspired hideaway
WITH views of the tram tracks and the Arndale Food Market, this spot on High Street isn't the city's most scenic. The team at Maddison's know this, and it's why they've gone all-out to create the exact opposite inside.
Ascend the steps to the mezzanine bar at Maddison's and the vibe becomes more Mediterranean villa garden than Mancunian main road. There are hanging vines, olive trees lit by fairy lights, and odd bits of sculpture and artwork on the walls. Add a couple of huge Chesterfield sofas, lots of reclaimed wood and twinkly candles, and it becomes eclectic and informal: the kind of place you'll want to stay a while.
And with a great-value menu of crowd-pleasing dishes, there's lots to keep you here. Maddison's has recently changed their food offering to give it a casual dining feel that's better suited to their 'chilled evening out' atmosphere.
Go for starters such as homemade ham hock terrine, and chilli and garlic king prawns served with sour dough. Options for mains include chickpea and squash curry, a classic sirloin steak and chips, and a wild mushroom risotto with truffle oil and veggie parmesan.
If you're looking for something lighter, there are sharing platters, sandwiches, and salads including vegan Moroccan cauliflower with pomegranate and mint-scented couscous. End on classic desserts such as sticky toffee pudding and Eton Mess.
It's all cooked fresh-to-order and service is efficient, making it popular with people with limited time on their lunch break.
We have to say though, this is the kind of bar that makes you forget about the clock for a while. If you're late back to your desk it won't be the kitchen's fault... you just didn't want to leave the garden behind and return to the real world outside.
See Menu (TBC)
