sometimes there is nothing nicer than getting out of london and spending a few days back home.

during my last visit to manchester for a very special birthday, i was introduced to the alchemist on new york street, a second and much larger bar of the same name, from living ventures.

it opened two months ago and already seems to have proved itself as a ‘must-visit’ venue.

unlike the spot at spinningfields, the space is huge and boasts a 360 degree island bar, patriotic leather couches and a large restaurant space.

executive director head chef john branagan, who is responsible for the amazing australasia eatery, is at the helm of the business, so i have high hopes for the food. just a quick glance at the menu made me drool.

while we didn’t dine, our party did sample plenty of cocktails, which proved very popular indeed.

porn star martinis proved to be the tipple of choice and they perhaps went down a little too well… soon shots were being ordered. the short drinks came in adorable tiny science beakers, an example of the attention to detail.

vintage movies were playing on a wall in the restaurant while the windows covered in fairy lights and both helped to create an elegant ambiance for the evening. who isn’t a sucker for a bit of twinkling? i know i am.

after very nearly drinking the bar dry, there was quite a few of us, birthday girl nat told us we were heading to revolucion de cuba, another, even newer bar.

situated on peter street, it appears that lots of people had the same idea and we had to queue to get in. after some feet tapping, and a bit of whinging about the cold from me (well, rather a lot), we were granted entry.

the bar is another large space with a strong cuban influence (the clue is in the name) rum is practically on tap and there is a cantina offering spanish- inspired food. the retro music is the real usp of the bar – our group couldn’t get enough of the big band tunes.

one friend, who had been suffering with back problems all evening couldn’t help but get up and bust out her fancy footwork to rock around the clock, turns out the track helped to loosen the troubled area up.

if you are looking to dance, or rather jive, the night away to 50′s and 60s rock and roll then this is the place for you.

the morning after the night before called for a big breakfast and i was taken to the cutest little cafe, home sweet home, in the northern quarter.

the hearty american diner-style dishes, proved to be the perfect post night out cure, plus the space is just gorgeous, with thoughtful decorations adoring the walls.

although i had the eggs and salmon i was lusting after the huge milkshake, which seemed like a full meal on its own.

alex ordered the breakfast waffles (who knew poached eggs and bacon went with what is essentially a desert?) while nat opted for a sandwich.

it might have been a quick trip back home but it was certainly an eventful, and thoroughly enjoyable one. plus it didn’t rain a drop during my entire stay.

anyone who hasn’t been to manchester really should. speaking of which, i believe i need to drag andrea up there sometime very soon.

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