This month, Manchester’s live music spectacular Sounds of the City is back at Castlefield Bowl for eight nights of blockbuster headline concerts featuring The Black Keys, Hacienda Classical, Basement Jaxx, Bloc Party and more.

If you’re looking for a sun-drenched pre-gig pint or memorable meal in the heart of the city before heading to the show, check out The Great Northern’s array of buzzing bars, acclaimed restaurants and popular games spots to kick off your evening in style.

Stop by The Mews Bar & Charcuterie down Deansgate Mews and sample an extensive selection of craft beers, artisanal spirits and expertly crafted cocktails, with outdoor seating available on the terrace to make the most of Mancunian summer.

For some of the best small plates in town, book a table at the Michelin Guide-featured another hand and try their irresistible fare made from local, seasonal ingredients in a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. If you’re after authentic tapas, head to Evuna and bask in the vibrant climes of southern Spain, with a menu full of delights ranging from chicken skewers and chili fillet steak to serrano ham croquets and stuffed aubergine, alongside an enormous wine list featuring some of the best vintages in the region.

Seeking some carb-laden fuel for a night of dancing? Grab a bao bun or ramen bowl from Pan-Asian street food joint Suki Suki before setting off for Castlefield Bowl, or try some of Manchester’s best traditional pizza and pasta with unrivalled hospitality and laid-back charm at Italiana 55.

Over at Pong & Puck, you can get the first rounds in on the outdoor terrace before facing off in a boozy games session, whether it’s shuffleboard, darts, beer pong or some competitive karaoke.

Throughout the Sounds of the City schedule, the lively bar and music venue Lions Den is hosting a series of pre-concert parties from 4-7pm before each event. Entry is free, so make your way along Deansgate Mews for a few hours of blistering DJ sets, live performances and drinks discounts.

Climb the colourful staircase to find all the hidden gems on Deansgate Mews

For more info, click HERE.

A Manchester Wire Partnership post
Wed 2 Jul - Sat 12 Jul, Great Northern Warehouse,
235 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4EN

www.thegreatnorthern.com
Words:
Wolf McFarlane
Published on:
Mon 7 Jul 2025