Amid the busy streets, air filled with the aroma of eau de Magic Bus and the sound of ravers, students, shoppers and commuters pounding the pavements, a botanical wonderland is opening its doors to provide a oasis of respite from the chaos of the city. Tucked away on the corner of Dale Street and Little Lever Street in the Northern Quarter, Allotment takes over the former site of Nickelby’s Pub – infamous for its sticky floors, holes in chairs and the rowdy (and sometime menacing) atmosphere – which closed in the 1990s. Prior to Nickelby’s, the Haunch of Venison (pictured) occupied the location, dating back to the 1970s. The new owners are keen to soothe things, with ‘rustic charm and fresh produce’ being key to the creation of a summery ambience in the middle of the city. Bringing the great outdoors inside, they are creating an indoor living wall and decorating furniture with wildflowers and greenery. The allotment theme is being applied to the menu as well, with cocktails organised by herb rather than spirits: sections such as Rosemary and Thyme will offer guests the opportunity to sip libations that will lead them further down the garden path. The food menu shall be focused upon fresh, local produce, with delights such as the picnic basket platter listed alongside classics like a hearty steak and ale pie and fish finger sandwiches. The bar opens this weekend – and next Wednesday evening (6 Aug), Allotment is hosting a special Google-organised garden party event, featuring wildflower arranging from Dig The City, a vegetarian cooking demo from award-winning chef Eddie Shepherd, the chance to create your own cocktails with ingredients from the herb garden, plus vintage garden games and live music. Click here to find out how you can RSVP.

Opens this weekend, Allotment Bar & Restaurant, 49 Dale Street, M1 1FY, www.facebook.com, @AllotmentBar

Words:
Nancy Dent
Published on:
Thu 31 Jul 2014