Ah, The Refuge! Where you’re invited to ‘Come as You Are’ and dine in 1920s’ resplendent glamour. Everyone I know who’s been loves it, and I can finally jump on that big old bandwagon (sometimes you just have to) and say I do too.
We visited The Refuge by Volta this weekend with two of our friends and their gorgeous baby, and we had a great afternoon staying for about four hours just chatting, eating, drinking and laughing.
Unrecognisable from what was once The Palace Hotel (think dated decor, thick carpets, and function room feels and you’re somewhere close), The Refuge, in what’s now The Principal Manchester, is jaw-droppingly glamorous and the food is delicious: the ox cheek under the fried egg was the standout dish for me: sweet, rich and melting. But, in all honesty, it was all good!
We had a range of Voltini (small plates) between the four of us and whilst dishes are a little bit on the pricey side, needing 4-5 per person, the food was tasty and offered a good variety with everything from raw, to meat, seafood and vegetables.
Crispy lamb shawarma, harissa, and yoghurt.
The food is good here, but the atmosphere and surroundings are what make The Refuge a real success. I already can’t wait to go back and spend the afternoon in their Narnia-esque Winter Garden sipping cocktails and having fun.
The Refuge by Volta
Oxford Street, Manchester, M60 7HA
allthatshecraves 