The Black Friar

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Reviews

1. Beth Scholes ★★☆☆☆

   I was really disappointed with my experience at The Black Friar. It reviews so well that I arrived with high expectations, but unfortunately they weren’t met. The decor is undeniably lovely, but the service let the whole experience down. Despite there being plenty of staff, no one seemed particularly friendly or happy to be there. One moment that stood out was when I went to retrieve my coat from the hook; a member of staff made it very clear that moving out of the way for me was an inconvenience, which left a sour impression. It is only a small thing but when you are paying these prices you do expect quality service imo. For the price point, I expected excellent service as part of the overall experience. The food itself was tasty, but there’s no getting around the fact that it’s overpriced for what you receive. There are other pubs just as lovely at a more reasonable price point. Also terrible poured Guinness served in a dirty glass. Based on the glowing reviews, my standards were high, but I left feeling disappointed. I wouldn’t rush back or recommend it to a friend, which is a real shame.

   1 month ago
2. Paulina Pejka ★★★★★

   The Black Friar has been amazing to work with for our friendship group's annual Christmas lunch. They made the entire booking process extremely easy, with all the T&Cs clearly outlined from the start. On the day we were looked after by Jess, who was incredible, very quick to respond to any issues raised, never kept anyone waiting, so accommodating with our various quirks (like pictures), and was easy to reach when needed without making it seem like hovering. And always with a smile, of course. Truly, truly a standout member of the team deserving of all the praise. The food at the Black Friar was also divine, incredibly generous portions (that I admit, have bested me) and every bite was a pleasure for all the senses. Our whole group was very happy with the afternoon we got to spend there and we will definitely be looking into coming back for next year's annual Christmas lunch, a total gem of a pub.

   1 month ago
3. Dane Hamilton ★★★★★

   Went with a friend and had a brilliant evening at The Black Friar. We chose the 2-course festive menu and it was spot on. I had the turkey ballotine followed by the Black Forrest gateau – both were incredible, properly cooked and full of flavour. Service was excellent throughout: quick, friendly and really on the ball. The place had a lovely atmosphere too, surprisingly busy for a Tuesday night which says it all. Would definitely go back.

   1 month ago

1. Keisha ★★★★★

   The best festive dining experience. Francesca was funny, friendly and delivered excellent customer service! Maddie was our original server and made us feel at ease and welcome. The food was stunning! I highly recommend the Black Friar always exceptional service and delicious food. Can’t wait to come back. Our visit is now part of the annual Xmas bucket list

   1 month ago
2. Rhys Thomas ★★★★★

   We visited for sunday lunch with no reservation and it was well worth the hour we had to wait for a table. There was a cosy spot by the fire where we were sat with a drink before moving into the dining room. Staff were super friendly. All three food courses were excellent, especially the pork sunday lunch. The wine we had was good too. I recommend you book a table in advance!

   almost 3 months ago
3. Brendan Cox ★★★★★

   Great date venue, with both an amazing interior and what looked like an amazing garden too (which we didn’t really use). The food is of a very high quality and the place seems to take itself quite seriously - it’s not like any other pub I’ve been to before! The menu is on the expensive side, so be prepared… The service, however, was what made the whole experience worthwhile. We were looked after by Hadar, who kept us happy and who was conversational in tone. Hadar gave us recommendations and kept us on the right track. Would 100% visit again, perhaps on a date rather than a group meal!

   almost 2 years ago

1. JOEL&CAM Bauristhene ★★★★★

   we have been to The Black Friar a few times previously and it has always been a warm and memorable time. We reserved a table for the New Year’s Eve set menu and no surprise, we were blown away by the quality of the food, the staff attentiveness, the atmosphere and the overall vibe and warm-hearted feel only the Black Friar could achieve. The menu was well thought out and the ingredients used down to the smallest detail showed the passion, knowledge and skill of the chefs behind it. This is only seen further in the restaurant area with the open kitchen setup. Watching the chefs work as such a collective team, all in unison, considering this is one of the busiest nights, the calm and collected nature throughout the evening from the Chef’s was impressive to see. The staff work tirelessly here to make every guest feel so special. We will always visit the Black Friar when we are in Manchester. Thank you everyone for such an unforgettable evening, we are so grateful. Joel & Cameron

   almost 3 years ago
2. Rachel Conner ★★★★★

   What an unexpected surprise! Spontaneously went for dinner on Saturday evening. They found us a table in the upstairs area which was lovely. Food was delicious and the service was attentive and helpful. We returned to the downstairs bar for cocktails. All the little details made it a lovely place and we had a wonderful evening. Thank you!

   almost 3 years ago
3. Jamie Hubbold ★★☆☆☆

   This was the most expensive meal I've had in Manchester so my expectation was high. Although some of the food was good half was not brilliant with the fish and chips being the worst, I only tried a few chips and could not get the taste of cooking oil out of my mouth. The service was OK but being greeted at the door with "I'm not on shift but I'll get your booking up" was not the best start. The waiters where fine but not particularly attentive as one would expect in a place like this. I would not personally go back as there are so many options in Manchester for similar food which is often better and cheaper.

   almost 4 years ago

1. Kai Leek ★★★★★

   Our first time at The Black Friar - it will not be our last. We went for our anniversary meal. From the moment the host welcomed us we knew this was going to be great. And it was. Their new menu, which we were told was enjoying its launch, was expertly and fabulously curated then carefully delivered with flair. So much so that my husband and I selected dishes we would not normally gravitate to. We were not disappointed. The venue itself is lovely and we especially enjoyed being able to glimpse the professionals at work in the open kitchen and can't wait to return during the day to enjoy the garden! Coupled with the perfect balance of genuinely friendly, attentive and caring service it made for a perfect evening. Thanks to the whole team for making our wedding anniversary one to remember. Kai & Adi

   almost 4 years ago

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