Raise a Glass: GRUB Manchester
This week, we raise our glass in a show of appreciation to the team behind one of Manchester’s finest street-food venues - GRUB.
Set up by husband and wife dream team, Jason and Juliana Bailey, GRUB first made its entrance onto the Northern culinary scene back in 2014, as a food and drinks festival event company.
Combining their considerable knowledge and passion for street food, having previously been vendors once themselves, the pair showcased some of the UK’s best chefs and independent traders in quirky locations across the metropolitan borough.
Every mouthwatering occasion offered a smorgasbord of gastronomic delights from around the globe, with all those fortunate to attend - from critics and writers to the general joe public - sharing rave reviews. Flaunting an always warm and welcoming atmosphere, tickets for GRUB events were harder to come by than gold. And with a mix of ingredients the likes of the aforementioned, it’s not hard to see why.
Almost eight years on and the wedded power couple are still doing what they do best, bringing new palate-exciting flavours to Manchester’s open-minded food-loving citizens. However, unlike GRUB’s early days, the roaming event now has a place all of its own. A permanent spot in the city’s lesser frequented Green Quarter, just a short walk from Victoria Train Station.
Situated inside a former industrial building, hidden amongst the towering apartment blocks on an inconspicuous plot of land, lies what is now without a doubt, one of the city’s most exceptional destinations for street food. The expansive venue, which boasts both indoor and outdoor places to enjoy delicious treats (including vegan-friendly options) as well as one of Manchester’s biggest ‘beer gardens’, an independent cinema and a programme of regular social events, is a go-to for natives and out-of-towner’s alike.
Of course, we couldn’t feature GRUB without mentioning their offering of ales and lagers now, could we? Taste bud tantalising tipples, including hoppy IPA’s and crisp refreshing lagers - the likes of our very own ‘Fresh As F**K’ Manchester Union Brewery Lager - make up a large part of the menu here, pouring freely five days a week.
Championing some of the finest beverages and breweries from across the North of England, craft beer enthusiasts are understandably drawn to GRUB like a magnet. Oh, and for those who require something a little sweeter, there’s also a generous selection of cocktails and shorts.
The once bohemian and independent spirit that flowed through the streets, bars and music venues of Manchester’s Northern Quarter district, prior to its still ongoing gentrification, has been found alive and well in this wondrously trimmed and easy-going hang out spot.
If you’re looking to experience an alternative day/evening of socialising and entertainment in Manchester, GRUB is the place to go.
Already making plans to make a visit to GRUB in the coming days? Perhaps you’re planning a trip around the festive period? Whatever it is you’re scheming, it’s worth checking out the venue’s jam-packed event listings - featuring stand-up comedy acts, live gigs, theatre shows and more! Keep on reading to find out what’s happening at GRUB in the not so distant future…
Christmas Crafternoon - Sunday 21st November 2021
Head to GRUB on Sunday 21st November 2021 for an afternoon of festive workshops to make decorations for your home or gifts for your loved ones this Christmas. Wholesome fun for the whole family.
Family Fridays - New Year’s Eve Edition - Friday 31st December 2021
Are you looking for something fun to do with your little ones over the coming festive break? Head to GRUB for Family Fridays during the school holidays.
Boasting lots of free activities and entertainment, including outdoor play activities, crafternoon fun, screenings of different children’s films in the Chapeltown Picture House and much more, this coming New Year’s Eve Edition will go down a storm with your youngsters!
Children of all ages are welcome to come along and all activities will be led by or supervised by a fully qualified and DBS checked teacher.
For more events, tickets and info, go to www.grubmcr.com.