Masons

Nestled in the Grade II Listed former Freemasons Hall, Masons Restaurant and Bar serves retro fine-dining fare in princely surrounds.

Layers of mahogany, pistachio and forest green velvet create a sophisticated hotel vibe – with a well-heeled clientele to match.

The menu sounds simple (lamb, fish, steak etc) but the dishes are anything but. This is a place of florid complex creations. A trio of desserts with ‘edible’ soil, a deliberately toppled glass, flowers for eating and much more, is typical.

Typical mains include seared duck breast on peach chutney bed with heritage parsnip puree, baby parsnip, parsnip crisps, shredded duck leg and green pea samosa.

Yes, it’s all a bit much at times, but Masons is somewhere to push the boat out (in a sophisticated way, of course).

Fittingly, fine wines abound and, when it comes to cocktail time, the excellent staff will make you anything you like. Or ask Manchester’s only martini trolley to visit your table for bespoke blends all around. A retro-tastic delight.

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