Cool and Quirky Bars in Manchester

When it comes to a unique night out in Manchester, All Star Lanes are at the peak of entertainment in the city. Not only a haven for bowling and Americana bites, the team behind this spot promise quirky cocktails, plush interiors and a photobooth to boot. 

For something a little different, head to the American inspired Cane and Grain in Manchester's Northern Quarter. The venue has been created by the experienced Ross Mackenzie and the cocktail expert Lyndon Higginson, and will offer the city's hungry revellers a characterful spot to enjoy delicious ribs, mouth-watering burgers and many other great Southern recipes. 

With a cracking cocktail list filled with innovative mixes, an extensive food menu taking you from brunch through to late night dinners, and a swanky interior split across two levels, Foundry Project is one fine spot in the Northern Quarter.

Originally opened in London, Dirty Martini has finally landed in the north and it's just as good as we all expected. There's a huge choice of martinis, neon angel wings and one of the city's most generous happy hours.

Bringing you some very quirky signature cocktails, tasty pizzas and tech-savvy dart boards for you to challenge your friends, this cool Manchester bar is an experience like no other.

The Refinery is a quirky spot in Spinningfields that's churning out cracking cocktails and incredible food. Spread over one floor, there's a choice between the casual dining room, a swanky restaurant, or laidback bar - or, if you can wait til winter, there's cute little igloos.

Start stretching out those arms, make sure that lunge is in check and, most importantly, get practising your victory strike dance because Dog Bowl is a playground for all the big kids who love to sling a bowling ball at some pins and call it a night out. Obviously, there's booze involved - and food - but this Manchester bar is strictly a competitor's zone. Bowl on.

Pink candy colours and Down Under vibes are the name of the game at one of Manchester's most Instagrammable bars. Sunset by Australia is perfect for warm summer days, with a leafy terrace and slushy cocktails to keep you hydrated.

When it comes to rule breakers and noise makers in Manchester, there's no quirky bar quite like Albert's Schloss. From steins and sausages, to heaped plates and heaving live performances, you'll be dancing on tables before you know it. 

This unique bar, restaurant and club is space sprawled over multiple floors, adorned with botanical decor and plush furnishings, making it an essential visit on nights out in Manchester. Head to eden and you'll not want to leave, trust us.

A must-visit for any gin fanatics, Three Little Words is the sleek restaurant that neighbours the Spirit of Manchester distillery. Head here to learn all about the science behind your favourite ice and a slice beverage before feasting on a mouthwatering menu of contemporary classic and healthy large plates.

This basement bar is a den of Mexican libations, tacos and wings. With a huge neon sign, exposed brick and colourful tiles, this Northern Quarter lair is great for something a little low-key; plus they've got a huge tequila and mezcal choice.

From the same people as Crazy Pedro's; Bunny Jackson's is a hopping, rocking blues spot. Billed as Manchester's greatest Juke Joint, the bar plays hit after hit, along with huge Americana vibes and brash interiors including a motorbike and men's genitalia on the bathroom door.

More than just a cocktail bar, Project Halcyon is a prime drinking destination and distillery all in one. Taking over what was previously Bonded Warehouse, this gin palace is bringing you cocktails and bottles and alongside masterclasses and tastings.

If you want a game, chances are that this neon subterranean den have got it. 7 Sins is an underground world hiding all sorts of fun, from shuffleboard and pool through to arcade classics.

A stunning cantina bar with great tapas, Sandinista does Cuban inspired cocktails, live music and has great album artwork covering its walls. Named after The Clash's 4th album, the bar is cool to the core and throws fun parties till 3am every night of the week.

Those who aren't in the know will be forgiven for striding straight on past Dusk Til Pawn. Hidden behind the pretence of an old pawn shop window, this is a speakeasy-styled joint featuring a free juxebox, comfy sofas and killer cocktails. Kick back with a drink or two, hear your favourite tunes ring out and embrace Dusk Til Pawn's quirky charm.

Make sure you've got your phone at the ready when you visit The Menagerie, as the venue is seriously Instagrammable. Located in a former office block in Salford, the bar's old life is swept away with interiors that include bird sculptures suspended from the ceiling, neon signs and plenty of floral features.

From its craft beer down to its burgers and roast dinners, Trof may be the more casual of the quirky bar in Manchester bunch, but you're sure to love their vintage vibe, retro furniture and exposed brick aesthetic.

A cool bar in Manchester situated in the Northern Quarter, Matt and Phred's is a jazz joint famous for its live music, tapas and prohibition style interior. Another neon sign signals the entrance and just gives it a cool look from the outset. Perfect for a chilled night of live music and great drinks with friends, Matt and Phred's is seriously fun.

Another Northern Quarter cutie, Behind Closed Doors hasn't been around for long but the bar is already making a splash. With very naughty vintage images, telephones on tables, DJ decks in a shopping trolley and a secret location, this bar is ticking all the right boxes.

Laundry day getting you down? With more than just soap suds and wash cycles on offer, this super secret Washhouse is a hideout among Manchester's 'in the know' revellers. Dump your clothes in exchange for a tumble through the dryer where you'll discover a lair of liquors, lusting and who knows what else? 

Vintage charm meets cocktail finesse at this unusual Manchester bar. A wonderland for those that fancy harking back to the days of prohibition, Fitzgerald is primed for evenings of craft cocktails, romantic nooks and lush, live jazz. 

This pasture of botanical inspired boozing and lounging is quite the beau in Manchester's bar scene. If you fancy a little shrubbery to shake up your cocktail experience, then Allotment Bar is a recipe of countryside charm and floral arrangements waiting to be devoured.

With three bars across the city, The Alchemist is a great choice. The New York Street venue is one of our faves, with a party atmosphere come the weekend and a short distance into the centre of town - check out their incredible cocktails, which incorporate everything from dry ice to smoke.

A haven to live music, Jimmy's has got rock 'n' roll running through its veins. Band posters decorate walls, there's knickknacks collected from touring bands, and a long list of acts taking to the stage. The support? Great beer and comfort food.

Disguised as a bog standard newsagent, Convenience Store might not first strike as a top place to grab a cocktail. But find the 'not another fucking Tesco Express' sign, and you're in for a treat as the bar mixes up arcade games, slushy drinks and a top playlist.

With Asian small plates and cool industrial interiors, Cottonopolis is a top choice for date night in the Northern Quarter. Pop in for a drink to try their comprehensive selection of sake, or if you're feeling something classic, the bartenders will know your tipple.