I suspect this post will be a little short and sweet. I mean, in the current restrictions in the time of COVID, a venue opening isn’t quite the same as an opening any other time.
No matter, this is a good one, though I’ll admit, it took me by surprise. First, Fierce Manchester appeared in my social feed. And then came the announcement that Marble’s Thomas Street Bar was now Fierce Bar Manchester.
None of this was a bad thing, don’t get me wrong, but unexpected. I’d heard no rumblings about Fierce opening venues outside Scotland, though I can happily say I’ve drunk Fierce Beer (from cans), sampled their gins and their Coffee Vanilla Rum (very delicious), and so was excited to see what was on offer fresh from the tap.
As you’d imagine, everything was socially distanced. Some of us seated outside to enjoy the last of the late summer sun, others inside in the upstairs or downstairs bar. And in layout it looks very similar to it’s previous owner. But after that, things are rather different. The space is split between plenty of wood panelling and black and white – Fierce’s key colours. There’s a big digital screen detailing the pours on offer, and table service by staff using face masks and scarves emblazoned with their logo.
It was safe to say, we worked our way through a selection. Personal favourites of mine included the Very Berry Sour, and Maple Pancake and the Cafe Racer.
Whereas the husband worked his way through all the shifts – Day, Split and Late – though the can of Fuego we moved onto before we left was is absolute favourite. So much so, we bought some more to take home.
Though it was our first visit, I really don’t think it will be our last. The set up is great, as are the staff, and the beers? Given they’re so good we had to buy to take home, I don’t think I need to say much more.
Except… Anyone (subject to restriction rules and their fluid nature) fancy a pint?
In the interests of transparency, our first beer was free as part of the launch event. All other drinks were paid for by ourselves.