Although found in buzzy Spinningfields in Manchester, there’s no mistaking that the industrial-chic vibe at The Refinery comes from the Drake & Morgan group, which originally started out in London but has since expanded nationwide.
The Refinery Spinningfields is a laid-back space which feels welcoming rather than stuffy, but a mix of textures and prints ensures that it’s stylish too – think chairs adorned with fur throws, striped flooring and burnt orange accents. There’s also an outdoor terrace which comes alive in the summertime, but that can also be used during the winter, thanks to heaters and cosy blankets. You might in fact recognise the backdrop as the new First Dates restaurant.
The Refinery Spinningfields menu is an all-day affair, taking diners through from breakfast to dinner via weekend brunch. If you’re heading here in the morning, you can expect breakfast classics such as avocado on sourdough toast, or a stack of buttermilk pancakes topped with caramelised banana and pecan nuts.
Later in the day, choose from The Refinery’s à la carte, which is made up of sharing small plates, mains, burgers and dishes from a grill. Highlights include salt and Szechuan pepper squid served with a lemon mayonnaise, and smoked salmon on toast with a yuzu and buttermilk dressing, while more substantial offerings see a 7oz Wagyu beef burger paired with chimichurri mayonnaise and chips, as well as mushroom shawarma that’s served alongside naan and tahini yoghurt.
To round off your meal, you can indulge with tempting desserts such as apple and cinnamon cake or lemon tart with crème fraiche. If you’re craving a sweet fix on the weekend, stop by on Saturday to try The Refinery’s brunch bar, which features a range of fruity smoothies alongside both traditional and unconventional takes on a Bloody Mary. Sundays are worth your time too, thanks to hearty roasts which arrive at the table with all of the classic trimmings.