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Venue
This is the latest opening by the Cheshire-based New Moon Pub Company, and these guys know what they’re doing! Head chef Dave Mooney and business partner Paul Newman have a winning formula. Beef and Pudding is located in the heart of the business community but only a stride from the busy shopping area. This is superior pub food in a lively setting and the comfortable bar area gives the impression they’re keen to lure after-work drinkers too.
Menu
Unusual and hearty dishes. For example, starters include tempura monkfish cheeks (£8.95), dripping pig ribs (£5.95) and oak smoked mackerel fillet (£6.95). But my friend and I shared one of four ‘planks’, choosing The Sunny (£14.95) which comprised pepper coated potato skins, charred watermelon, beef tomato and smoked mozarella, cheese bon bons, tomato and chilli dip and artisan bread. Fabulous! For mains I enjoyed Sea Bass Fillet Martini (£16.95) - a huge piece of fish kind of stuffed with olives and tomato in vodka, plus new potatoes. My friend made light work of Flattened English Rump Steak (£16.95) with a ‘dry rub’ of paprika and chilli and shoestring fries. Interesting desserts followed: I had an exquisite chocolate mousse (£5.95) and across the table a clever take on Peaches and Cream (£5.95) slipped down swiftly.
Decor and ambience
It reminds me of those pubs near the City of London which seem to attract more business men than women, and I can never (speaking as a female) understand why. Put your head around the door, ladies, you’ll love it.
Service
Our server, Jack, was very efficient while seeming laid-back and friendly at the same time.
Price
It’s not a bargain but it’s good value. Our dinner for two with a bottle of wine, three courses and coffee was £90 but this is quality food.
Louise Allen-Taylor
Beef & Pudding
37 Booth Street
Manchester city centre
M2 4AA Tel:0161 237 3733
