January - Sandbar
Sandbar
120-122 Grosvenor Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, Manchester M1 7HL
The Stockport & South Manchester CAMRA winner for January is Sandbar on Grosvenor Street, All Saints. John Clarke put it forward and explains why it won.
When it first opened in 1996, Sandbar was one of the first modern bars in Manchester and certainly the first in the heart of the University area, which accounts for its long-term popularity with both students and lecturers from the surrounding colleges.
It's an interesting conversion of two old Georgian townhouses, with several old features still in situ to give some hint of the buildings' past lives. Today, though, it's a bohemian and arty hangout with frequent painting and photography exhibitions lining the walls. Regular events include DJs or live music in the evenings, life-drawing classes, and wine, whisky and gin tastings, among others.
Of course Sandbar has evolved over time - with perhaps the biggest change occurring many years ago when it effectively doubled in size by expanding into the neighbouring building. The beer range has changed too, with an early emphasis on imported German and Belgian beers giving way to an increased focus on local brewers for the enterprising cask and keg offering (and the cask range usually includes a dark beer). There's a traditional cider too, from Moss Cider. Food comprises a selection of (very tasty) homemade pizzas.
Sandbar has been quietly excellent for years now, while at the same time remaining slightly below the radar. However it's been a regular in the national Good Beer Guide for many years and last year it won the award for 'Best Pub/Craft Ale Bar' in the Manchester Food & Drink Festival awards.
All this is overseen by general manager Dave Williams and his team. Dave has been at Sandbar for three years now and the smooth operation shows a sure touch by all concerned. It's not the first time Sandbar has been Pub of the Month but, given that the last time was almost 15 years ago, this further award is well overdue. Join us on the night of Thursday 30 January when we present this well-deserved award.
Remember: Sandbar doesn't take cash - it's card only across the bar.