Right in the heart of Spinningfields as it is, you would be forgiven for thinking this was another Living Ventures concept bar. In Bloom – bought to you by Fluid Bars who are best know for offering top notch event catering and hosting the Dock Bar in Media City - has laid down roots in its new city centre home. So with the weather continuing to be Mediterranean hot, is was the perfect time for DesignMyNight to head down for a lunchtime treat.
The Venue
In the centre of Spinningfields next to The Lawns, In Bloom sits opposite Long Bar. With a larger seated area and cool pods with attached shades it’s the perfect area to enjoy the good weather we have been getting recently. The indoor bar area feels more of a place you would just grab your drinks before venturing out into the well-tended garden (they even have a weekly gardener!). The outside space spans the front and back of the bar – however you are also welcome to grab your drinks and take a seat on The Lawns, with their large screen often showing sports or evening films.
In Bloom offers one of the best al fresco drinking spots in Manchester
Clientele and Atmosphere
When we visited it was mid week lunchtime, and there were the expected business people enjoying a long lunch break in the sun. We hear it gets pretty busy at the weekend with DJs playing to the dancing crowds outside but when we visited the crowd were definitely having some much needed R&R. We were greeted the moment we came in and sat down at a table in the corner outside, perfect for some people watching. Spinningfields has a reputation for attracting a well dressed, young professional crowd and it didn’t disappoint. Despite the laid back vibe at In Bloom we were well looked after and the staff were friendly and attentive throughout our lunch.
The lunch time crowds at In Bloom Bar
Food & Drink
Despite it being the perfect weather for a glass of Pimms (read JUG!) and a summery cocktail menu the weather was just too hot so we opted for juice and sparkling water. With herbs grown on site and even strawberries, the team try to incorporate as many home grown ingredients as they can in their signature cocktails. We had a longing look at the menu and certainly will be tempted back there soon for a nice long Mojito! The food menu was not extensive, but with so many restaurants nearby the bar seems to be focusing on a small but well thought out menu with quality ingredients. We opted for a sharing platter which came out with plenty for two (with lots of bread, I hate it when they skimp on the bread!) and some well sourced cheeses, meats and roasted vegetables. Because of the warm weather there was a BBQ on when we visited with a couple of good quality meat choices, but without a vegetarian option we chose to eat from the main menu.
The vegetarian sharer platters at In Bloom offer a good alternative to the meaty BBQ options
Summary
With the weather being so pleasant at the moment Mancunians are clamouring to find the best outdoor spaces in the city centre. In Bloom certainly offers something a bit different; unusual seating outside with a large lawn to relax on and extra evening entertainment put on by the team at Spinningfields. Perfect as a place to relax with a cocktail in the day and to rub shoulders with the young and beautiful in the evening. With plans to stay throughout the winter by adding a roof to the (heated) outside area and an option to host evening functions, Bloom is clearly here to stay. You’ll catch us in the garden for a cocktail I’m sure.
