Hamish Smith's reviewing is normally confined to London, but an unplanned visit to Bar Shrimp in Manchester required documenting.
There couldn't be a better spot for Bar Shrimp than on New York Street. This restaurant-bar (or perhaps the other way around) gives parity to food and cocktails - very much out of the New York playbook.
Next door to sister restaurant Higher Ground (its owners also operate wine bar Flawd) the venue is dark-lit with bold splashes of red and white - it gives diner vibes, just more refined.
The near-20-strong cocktail list is divided into classics, shaken, stirred and carbonated of which I choose Dabinett Apple (Capreolus x Bar Shrimp eau de vie, ice cider, honey, apple) which was balanced, refreshing and eagerly despatched, even if it did have to take turns with the food.
Ever the contrarian, in a restaurant that majors on seafood, I stayed on dry land, opting for the much recommended burger and chips - no regrets there. It was a flying visit, but one that promises a return.
★★★★☆
7 New York Street, Manchester M1 4JB