When you think of a launch event, you might think of glasses of fizz, delicate canapes served by bow tied waiters. You might think of mingling with minor celebs, press, and possibly a huge headache the next day.
What you may not think of is the Arndale Market hall, paper plates, wooden forks and prosecco in plastic glasses. Which would be a damn shame.
Sure the Arndale Market might not be your automatic ‘go to’ when hungry in the city – we have a ridiculous number of restaurants now, so you might be tempted by one of them. But when we have Pancho’s Burritos, Viet Shack and now a whole host of tasty newcomers to the space, you should maybe think again.
If only because that lunch you’re having al desko shouldn’t involve a crap plastic sandwich that you’ll thoughtlessly eat without tasting. Even a working lunch can, and should be enjoyed.
Back in 2006 the Arndale Market hall opened, offering everything from hairpieces to a pint of beer. And not much has changed in the ten years since then. Some have come and gone (miss you Queen Brie), but this expansion sees some new faces arriving and some old faces expanding.
Pancho’s have a larger space, and still offer for my money, probably the best burrito in the city (I’d say it was definitely, but I’m pretty sure there are some burritos I haven’t had yet). Their spicing and recipes are authentic, tasty and good value. So good, that by the time I got to their platter, the whole thing had gone.
Luckily I’d got there just as Viet Shack were putting options from their new project Fusion Lab (coming in December and I suspect I’ll want to be first in that queue) including Korean fried chicken with gravy (so good), a raw beef salad that was just heavenly, and beef ribs that were that perfect blend of sticky, sweet and falling off the bone.
Dhaba Bollywood have a big range of Indian street food, with some delicious bhel puri for us to nibble on – one of the most well balanced I’ve tried. And Hey Mian Sushi Bar of Stockport fame have opened Hong Thai, a range of Thai dishes with lots of flavour.
We nibbled on pasta dishes and a slow burner of a curried goat that teased you with it’s spice and rich gravy, sampled waffles and sweet treats from Kawaii Waffles and Simone’s protein heavy treats.
But I must admit, I was here not only for these guys, but in support of Claire’s – the lady who feeds the market traders – butchers, fishmongers, grocers, drivers, chefs and, well you and me – over at Claire’s of Smithfield. She’s set up her market kitchen in the Arndale, offering market fresh food, with twists of inspiration and a touch of imagination.
She makes decisions day to day as to what goes on the menu – meaning that you get the best of what’s on offer, with fresh seasonal produce. As a fan of her supperclubs, it’s another spot I suspect I’ll be visiting as often as I can. Especially after sampling those crumpet croutons.
So finish your plastic butty today. But tomorrow… Maybe treat yourself to something a lot more satisfying.
