I first visited the Violet Hour way back in November and ever since, it’s become a firm favourite.
As a gin lover, as a whisky lover, as a cocktail lover, you cannot fault the drinks on offer. In pretty surroundings, with squishy sofas and an open frontage for those sunny days, it’s a fantastic place to head and have a drink or two, or three.
And with it’s first birthday came a brand new cocktail menu, new food menu and a launch of them both. Lucky, lucky ladies that we were, Keeley and I headed over to investigate everything on the new menus.
Greeted with a glass of Prosecco (well it would be rude not to), we were soon gazing at the menus with interest.
The cocktail menu has been pared down, but this is no bad thing, the new cocktails are more inventive, the Butcher’s Shop Martini an instant favourite – not only for my love of a good Martini, but it gave me an opportunity try a bacon moustache – something not to be missed. Suits me I think?
For those of you who like something a sweeter, the Penelope Pitstop is a must try – Finlandia and Cariel vanilla vodka, raspberry syrup and cream mix to make an intense alcoholic milkshake.
Or how about a Portobello Porn Star? Portobello Road Gin, basil, strawberry and pink fizz make for a very pretty but delicious change to a classic.
The food menu brings some of the regular city centre treats to Didsbury – small plates offer pulled pork and mini corn dogs, buffalo wings and smoked cheddar.
The bigger plates include hanger steak, cheeseburgers and stuffed peppers. And of course, we tried some of these out for you.
The mini corn dogs are rather addictive little morsels and the pulled pork is fabulous, slightly smoky, tender, juicy, then the crab in Baby Gem lettuce is ridiculously moreish. But for me, it’s the cheeseburgers that won me over. Beef patties have added marrow to make them juicy and rich, a great burger sauce and brioche bun.
Throw in their regular live music – this Thursday it’s with regular performer Pete Churchman – DJ sets and events, there’s really no excuse for me – or you for that matter.
See you at the bar?