Gorilla, Manchester
Last Saturday, amidst the Jubilee madness, I sought respite in the newly-opened Gorilla on Whitworth Street West.
Currently a bar and kitchen, with plans for expansion to club and stage later this year, first impressions were good. The décor is spot on; much classier than any of the other bars in the same area, the atmosphere was friendly and the staff were at a ‘we’ve only been open two nights’ level of smiley.
A quick read of the Field Notes-style menu revealed a gin parlour awaiting upstairs but, despite it being the Queen’s weekend, I opted for wine instead. Now, here’s where I ran into some trouble.
Two 175ml glasses of wine were £9! That’s ridiculous! Especially as the wine wasn’t fancy – in fact, I think they were just one up from the house. Also, they arrived in tumblers. TUMBLERS! Now, before you think I have taken the Royal weekend a bit too seriously and am channelling my inner-queen, I’m more than happy to drink wine from a mug/my hand/a plant pot. But that’s at home, or maybe at a house party, when you’ve turned up last and all the real glasses have been smashed. I haven’t grown-up much since my student days but when it comes to wine, I want a glass that was specifically made for wine! </rant>
As it was only the second night of the doors opening, it was a wee bit quiet for a Saturday night but this meant I benefited from staff handing out free cocktails. All gin-based and, despite it not being my favourite spirit, they were well mixed and oh-so-strong. And, I noticed, all served in the correct glasses…
Looking at Gorilla’s Twitter account, they are currently pushing offers on cocktails – whether this is a permanent thing or simply an opening offer, I don’t know but I suggest you fill your boots during these happy hour(s) and enjoy this new Manchester bar.
