Blacklock Manchester

Handsome subterranean restaurant Blacklock Manchester is the first northern opening from this London-based restaurant group. 

It boasts ethical credentials, from the two days of parental puppy leave for employees, to the careful sourcing of the meat, which comes from the third generation Warren family farm in Cornwall.

Most of the menu is focused on this – Blacklock is a steak restaurant after all. It doesn’t bother much with vegetarian options; there’s just three, aside from the sides, plus one fish dish. They do a smashing barbecued cauliflower Sunday roast though so that might be the day to go with herbivore friends.

Chops are a specialty, or go for steaks or burgers. Recommendations include the egg and anchovy pre-chop bite, the starter of mushrooms on toast, and the gloriously smoky and juicy bacon chop with gravy. 

Much of the wine list is by the glass (it comes from a keg because this is more sustainable) but you can order a bottle from their ‘favourites’ list. There’s also an excellent cocktail menu with a good number of alcohol-free options.

Blacklock sits somewhere between Hawksmoor and Flat Iron in its concept and quality. (Geographically, it’s also very close). It’s a confident operation, and rightly so – the food, service and setting are all on-point.