12 months ago, while doing that horrid weight loss stuff, I’d treat myself at every milestone. Whether 1 stone or 6, it was important to treat myself to something special – after all 1200 calories a day is hard work.
One of the treats at a big milestone was a champagne afternoon tea at the Richmond Tearooms, with my friend Lisa. So, when we heard they were having a 1st birthday party, we were more than happy to help them celebrate.
Before we headed off there, however, the sneaky opening of Kosmonaut caught our eye. With a spare hour or two after the gym, we decided to pop by. And my, we were glad we did.
Kosmonaut is a touch of NYC – tiles, brick, wood. Bringing a New York loft to the Northern Quarter, but without trying too hard. We arrived as the whiff of varnish was still detectable and spare sofas available for our spin class weary legs.
The wine list is excellent, the beer list is impressive (I really must bring Mr GFB), but the cocktails drew our attention. After all, if you’re going to imitate New York….
We weren’t disappointed. If anything we were spoilt for choice, but made the decision to opt for a Femme Fatale (later followed by a Totes Amazeballs and one or two Make Love Not War cocktails). Both of our drinks slipped down far too easily. Always a good sign.
Dragging ourselves away from such comfortable sofas was a real struggle. We can see this place being a big hit. Not only for a quiet after work drink, but with the booths and mood lighting, perfect for a date with someone special or a stop off on party night. I know for a fact we’ll be back.
On we strolled to the Richmond Tearooms. Think Alice in Wonderland meets a stately home. The tearooms are gorgeous, frivolous, with touches of kitsch and some of the best cakes I’ve eaten (and I’ve eaten a lot of cake). The Lodge is little bit of stately home – antlers, oil paintings and Chesterfields. It has excellent cocktails with fewer cocktail dresses, but better class of bitch than any manor house I’ve visited. Our lady Joan would be impressed.
With a glass of bubbly in hand, it was lovely to see the room fill to bursting point with all of those who are regulars and friends of the Tearooms. We sampled some of the nibbles on offer, including little scones with cream, jam and blueberries. That’s the kind of nibble this girl can get behind.
I have to say, I don’t go often as I’d like – their martinis are especially worth sampling, and their afternoon tea is heavenly – it’s a situation that I must correct immediately. So while I book afternoon tea, you have a look at the pictures, or have a wander by. Or pop by Kosmonaut for a quick drink. You’ll be awfully glad you did.
Ooh, this looks like a fab place! I’ve not been to Manchester before but if I do end up going, I might have to seek this place out!
Both are well worth a visit – Kosmonaut is fast becoming one of my favourite bars – I might see you there!