You don’t have to be a Deansgate local to recognise the Great Northern, Deansgate’s huge warehouse housing everything from a cinema to a bowling alley – but you might not know about Deansgate Mews, tucked away in the terrace of the Great Northern itself and home to some of Manchester’s most exciting independent businesses. This colourful spot is hiding in plain sight – located just up the stairs opposite The Hilton Hotel or directly from Deansgate itself. If you’ve never taken a stroll through this exciting hidden street, you’re really missing out – don’t worry though, we’ve picked out some of the best spots to visit to help guide your visit…
Alex, owner of Alex’s Bakery, trained as a nutritionist in her home country of Brazil and became a full-time housewife upon moving to England. Her bakery business grew from friends trying the cakes and cupcakes she made for her kids’ birthday parties and school events. This hidden bakery offers a wide range of cakes, cupcakes, brownies and more – and afternoon tea is available every day, featuring a selection of the best little treats they have to offer.
This independent bread specialist dedicated completely to sourdough operates as a test bakery. During the week the owner, Danny Foggo, experiments with innovative recipes and techniques, using no machinery except an oven to craft unique sourdough loaves. The bakery itself then opens every Saturday from 10am until whenever the loaves sell out – so make sure to be quick if you want to grab some.
The menu at Platzki changes twice a week. Their Wednesday to Friday menu puts a twist on Polish classics, with an emphasis on high-quality, honest ingredients and switches gears every Wednesday. From Friday to Sunday, the Platzki Fine Dining Experience is available. This menu varies from month to month, and puts an indulgent, imaginative spin on traditional Polish cuisine.
Thai Smiles serves up delicious Thai street food in a casual and colourful environment. Previously a Chinatown staple, the restaurant moved in mid-2018 to the cluster of independent businesses housed in Deansgate Mews, where it continues to serve up some of the best Thai food Manchester has to offer.
Lion’s Den is a venue that really has it all – serving breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and coffee, alongside live music and events, retro games and plenty of space to eat, drink, study, socialise and more. You can catch live music of all genres in the evening – and at night, there’s often DJ sets till late.
Looking to kick back and relax? Head to the Odeon Great Northern multiplex and you can catch a new release movie or a hidden indie gem on one of their many big screens. Located in the heart of the Deansgate Mews, this city centre picture house is the perfect spot for a family day out or a solo trip to escape the often temperamental Manchester weather.
If you’re after something completely different, Deansgate Mews has just the thing. Whistle Punk’s axe throwing experience invites you to take aim and hone a very unusual set of skills. Visitors can book a session for up to 10 people for a 70 minute session where they’ll get the chance to throw axes at two different targets in a dedicated lane. Don’t worry – a full briefing and guide is included and there’s even food, drink and snacks on offer too. Sounds good if you axe us.
Deansgate Mews, 235 Deansgate, Manchester City Centre, M3 4EN, Tel: 0161 832 8136, Various opening times
www.thegreatnorthern.com
- Words:
- Amy Callaghan
- Published on:
- Mon 9 Mar 2020
Dormouse Chocolates, a craft chocolatier in Manchester, place the focus on sourcing the most ethical and highest quality cocoa beans in order to make the best chocolate – and it really shows. On the third Wednesday of every month, they run Manchester Chocolate Club, a tasting night in the shop giving you a chance to try a selection of their chocolate (all handmade right here in Manchester).