Raise A Glass: Wandering Palate
Situated in one of Salford’s most vibrant and upcoming suburbs, Greater Manchester’s answer to the French Riviera, Monton, or Monton Carlo as the natives might say, Wandering Palate is suitably compatible with its neighbouring independent cafes, bourgeois tea rooms and upmarket cocktail bars.
Named after and inspired by the travels of owners Emma and Will Evans, the latter of whom some of our taproom regulars might recognise (also the co-founder of Manchester Union Lager), the neighbourhood deli and drinkery flaunts the many various cheeses, craft ales, fine wines, and even finer cured meats, pâtés and more, that the pair have been so fortunate to sample in destinations around the world.
Founded with the sole intention of bringing their exotic and flavourful findings back to their community, the couple’s devotion to seeking out, taste-testing and supplying local patrons with only the finest of internationally sourced products exceeds all else.
Aiming to enlighten the taste buds of all who visit, the culinary experience is merely half of the Wandering Palate’s magnetic draw. Sharing stories of the friendships and working relationships they’ve built and still lovingly maintain to this day, both owners exude an admirable passion and enthusiasm for their trade and service, leaving a lasting mark on unknowing passers-by and those who habitually frequent their quaint suburban store and bar.
The charming interior of the venue isn’t to be overlooked either, by any means. The ground-floor store warmly welcomes you in, drawing your eyes to the abundance of treats that fill every nook, cranny, shelf and fridge, before a staircase leads you up to the striking second-floor cocktail bar. Dark teal walls meet a bold salmon-coloured ceiling in what has to be the cosiest and best-decorated drinking spot in the village, with tasteful furnishings and ambient light fittings only further adding to its appeal.
Not to be discourteous upon your arrival to the second floor, it’s recommended that you pull up a chair, get comfortable and get your chops around one of the various signature cocktails on the menu. One drink you’ll always find on there is the Dirty Old Town, an ode to Penicillin proudly created by owner Will. It could be said the man knows a thing or two about producing great beverages.
The flavour of bitter coffee comes together with the sweet tang of the famous French liqueur, Benedictine, before the main element, Hinch Peated Single Malt Whiskey adds the finishing touch to this smoky Irish favourite.
Not a fan of whiskey? There’s a selection of fresh and fruitier options also available made with rum, prosecco and specially infused gins, as well as vegan-friendly refreshments, and pints of Manchester Union lager of course, for the discerning customer.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet night centred around good conversation and even better beverages and service, or a place to find new ingredients or speciality wines and beers, Wandering Palate is a must-visit destination the next time you find yourself in the Monton area.
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