ANDY CRONSHAW
BIG news this week in the city centre’s wine scene with the announcement of a new venture in Ancoats from Hanging Ditch owner Ben Stephenson.
The ambitious project will be called Blossom Street Social and will open at the Manchester Life’s Smith’s Yard development right opposite Sugo.
According to Ben it will be ‘a pioneering new take on a wine merchant, bar and collaborative dining experience.’
Blossom Street Social will be open morning to night with that essential morning coffee supplied by Grindsmith, who will also be involved in the training of baristas.
Food will include deli plates from Harvey & Brockless, Brindisa and Trove Bakery. The kitchen has also been designed to host pop-ups.
Wine will, of course be on sale, and the design of the retail offering will take its cue from the ‘wall of wine’ at Hanging Ditch.
According to Ben, the in-house wine list will focus on everyday prices as well as a selection of fine wines dispensed by the glass from a Coravin system. Local craft beers will pour from keg and there’ll be a short list of classic cocktails.
Ben said: “Finally! Having looked at sites all over Manchester we’ve decided there’s no better place than Ancoats to open our new concept. We’re hugely excited to expand on the success of Hanging Ditch and can’t wait to welcome our new neighbours!”