When wandering through the many avenues that make up Manchester's diverse food and drinks culture, one thing that stands out is the lack of high quality Mexican dining. Formerly one of Manchester's finest cocktail bars, the question for me always was... could Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn make the successful transition to dining heavyweight?
The Venue
With a name as intriguing as Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn I was excited to uncover what was hiding behind the front door. Opening into a warm and welcoming bar area, the music perfectly accompanied the low lighting and chatty ambience, making it one of the most exciting restaurant bars in Manchester that I've come across.
A dive bar with a little added Mariachi flair, Luck, Lust, Liquor and Burn is humble and tasty.
The Drinks
We were first presented with Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn's authentic take on Mexican drinks. Through the vast amount of different options the Dirty South Martini was a firm favourite. Infused with spicy jalapeno peppers and grapefruit oil which gives the cocktail a beautiful shine, it was something extremely special and an interesting take on a classic. Next up was the Tijuana Tin Cup, packed with Woodford Reserve Bourbon, grapefruit, agave and mint that has been infused for 24 hours. The presentation was extremely fun, held up in a tin can with fresh fruit resting on top. The group then dived into a firm bar favourite and first for Manchester itself. A beer, cocktail combination. The Lagerita is El Jimador Tequila, lime, agave, topped with cold lager. Normally served in a half tankard, but for the more daring a full pint is available which I'd love to see any adult try!
Cracking bourbon concotcions and tantalising tequila tipples, this Manchester bar are cocktail forward.
The Food
Onto the food and we delved into a vast range of beautifully cooked authentic Mexican goodies. A range of special 'street' tacos came displayed in rows of three on special 'Luck' and 'Lust' platters. The Hawaiian BBQ pork was like nothing I have tasted before, I highly recommend anybody to give it a try, there is no going back after that moist flavourful pork. For something quick and light the Lettuce Cups were also great. Backed by a spicy kick, the chicken is laid across a cup of Lettuce, with nuts and sunflower seeds. The most tempting treat of the night was the venue's amazing take on classic guacamole. It arrived in a bucket as a whole fresh avocado which was smashed down right in front of our eyes; something new, innovative, exciting and a must-try for any food lover looking for fun bars in Manchester.
Hearty South American fare with street food panache reigns supreme at Luck, Lust, Liquor and Burn.
Summary
This place is amazing; serving up delicious food, with warm and friendly staff, Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn offers high quality cocktails and of course, lots of fun! Go and dive head first into the world of Luck, Lust, Liquor & Burn, it's certainly the best taste of Mexico you'll get in Manchester! We left feeling suitably warm and full, the sign of any good Mexican restaurant.
