The Blues Kitchen Manchester

The famed London based live music venue's base in the North West. The best bit about this bar is the building fit out, it's a wonder to look at and must have cost an unbelievable amount to decorate. Judging by the setting, a lot of the features were not original but retrofitted in at fit out stage. Worth going in an having a quick look round at what they have done. This must have cost a lot! I was there on a Friday, and it was full (needed a booking). The live band were tight and very accomplished. Would say that the downside to the rather disparate layout of the venue, was it perhaps lacks a bit of atmosphere. The stage is positioned to the side where not everyone can see it and engage with the musicians... it doesn't quite have the buzz of the Camden or Old Street venues. Food menu was a bit different, more out there than other places in the City that stick to the classics. Some will love it, others may not- so check in advance if you're eating. Loads and loads of staff, very attentive. They definitely go for the upsell and can be on the pushy side of friendly (if you get me) Would perhaps recommend a week day evening - for a chill look at fit out and a relaxed drink. Then save your off the hook Fridays for somewhere a bit more pumping. Or if you want a suave and classy lounge bar vibe, there are other places in the City that cater for this a bit better.