The Washhouse — Restaurant in Manchester

This was a really good idea for a bar. I liked the drinks, but the actual selection of drinks left something to be desired; it's not at all that there was a lack of choice, but some familiarity would be nice so as not to be sitting googling what the commonly used yet lesser known ingredients are. The conspiracy theory themed menu was a touch of gold, though. Top notch for creativity.

That being said, the price point is very high, but worth it for the balance of spectacle, ingenuity, originality and for the ingredients. I can't complain about the prices themselves, however, I do think it is an insult to automatically include a 10% gratuity on the bill. The price point is high enough as it is, and to adopt an irrelevant American custom such as this, in the UK, on an already expensive bill frankly leaves a sour taste.

The idea of tipping in the US is based on entirely different principles - you tip for good service, tip more for great service, don't tip if the service was bad, et cetera. But mostly, the bar workers in a country like the US rely on their tips as they are notoriously underpaid. The staff working in a bar here in the UK are paid at least minimum wage. Personally, I don't feel the service I received here warranted a 10% tip on a £150+ bill. My point here is that an automatically added gratuity feels greedy, unfair and entitled. This should be an "opt in", not an "opt out"...

The cocktails we tried were hit and miss, and that's to be expected, of course. I will add, though, that the service was very slow and, had it been quicker, we would have stayed for more drinks, so I'd suggest looking at that to perhaps improve things. The bar wasn't particularly busy, but to wait just over 45 minutes for 4 drinks is beyond silly.

I will give a shout out to the Polybius that I ordered. This was a fantastic cocktail and had been very meticulously crafted, and I'd order this again and again. The Elvis Isn't Dead was also fantastic and left me scratching my head wondering how this place can make a whiskey cocktail not just taste nice, but feel totally moreish.

On the down side, the Birds Aren't Real was not a very nice drink. I don't think the flavours or alcohol balanced at all correctly, but to each their own. I'm sure lots of people go for this one and enjoy it.

All in all, not my favourite cocktail bar, but definitely an experience I won't forget soon.

My advice to The Washhouse is: speed up the service, don't add an automatic tip (maybe a suggested gratuity amount printed on the receipt would be a little more polite), and keep making nice cocktails in the quirky and vibrant setting you have. It creates a really lovely experience. Side note for customers: please don't sit and gawk into your phone all night. It's a great place and you're missing out on an awful lot of cool ambience.

Sadly, I don't plan to return to this bar for the negative reasons outlined above. I wish the venue all the best...

A clandestine speakeasy bar, hidden behind the facade of a seemingly ordinary laundromat. This intriguing concept adds an element of mystery and exclusivity to the bar experience, making it a sought-after destination for those in the know.

To gain entry to The Washhouse, patrons must first make a reservation via phone or online. Once confirmed, we received instructions on how to locate the concealed entrance within the laundromat. This secretive entrance sets the tone for the immersive experience that awaits inside.

Stepping through the unassuming door, we are transported into a world of sophistication and intrigue. The interior exudes an air of vintage glamour, with dim lighting, plush furnishings, and stylish decor reminiscent of the Prohibition era.

At the heart of the experience is the meticulously crafted cocktail menu, featuring an array of innovative concoctions designed to tantalize the taste buds. Each cocktail is expertly prepared by skilled mixologists using premium spirits, house-made infusions, and fresh ingredients sourced locally and globally.

From classic cocktails with a modern twist to signature creations unique to The Washhouse, there's something to suit every palate and preference. Guests can expect to embark on a sensory journey with each sip, as flavors harmonize and evolve in unexpected ways.

In addition to its exceptional cocktails, The Washhouse offers a curated selection of fine wines, craft beers, and spirits, ensuring there's a libation to satisfy every discerning drinker.

The attentive and knowledgeable staff are passionate about their craft, providing personalized recommendations and attentive service to enhance the overall experience. Whether you're seeking an intimate evening with friends or a memorable date night, The Washhouse promises an unforgettable adventure behind its...

Washhouse is a hidden gem in Manchester that offers far more than its novelty façade might suggest. While its quirky laundrette-themed entrance may initially give the impression of a gimmick, the bar itself is a meticulously curated, high-end cocktail experience. At its heart, Washhouse is a celebration of creativity and craftsmanship, featuring a menu of cocktails inspired by popular conspiracy theories. Each drink incorporates unique, imaginative elements that set this bar apart from the rest of Manchester’s cocktail scene.

The staff at Washhouse are a particular highlight, providing exceptional service that elevates the entire experience. Attentive, knowledgeable, and approachable, they are well-versed in the intricate details of the cocktails and their ingredients. Our server struck the perfect balance between professionalism and friendliness, offering thoughtful recommendations tailored to our tastes while maintaining a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Presentation is where Washhouse truly excels. Each cocktail is a visual masterpiece, carefully designed to reflect its individual theme. From the ethereal effects of dry ice to minimalist touches such as branded ice blocks, the attention to detail is extraordinary. These creative flourishes ensure that every drink is not only a delight to taste but also a feast for the eyes.

What truly sets Washhouse apart, however, is its team. The staff’s professionalism and enthusiasm are matched by the passion of their manager, who clearly takes pride in delivering an outstanding product and experience. In a competitive market where many establishments fall short, Washhouse stands out as a benchmark for service, innovation, and presentation.

I wholeheartedly recommend Washhouse to anyone seeking an unforgettable cocktail experience...