Salt Dog Slim's Manchester

Ah, Salt Dog Slim's – what a gem in the heart of Manchester! It's got that authentic dive bar charm with an American twist, serving up some seriously tasty cocktails and beers that are bound to impress. I love how they've got free pool on offer, which is just the thing for a bit of friendly banter with your group, and the staff are absolute stars, always up for a chat and making sure everyone has a good time. The hot dogs are a bargain too, especially midweek, and with events like quizzes and even cocktail masterclasses, there's plenty to keep things interesting. On the downside, it might not be buzzing every night – pop in midweek and it could be a tad empty, which takes away from the vibe a bit – and while the pool table's a nice freebie, it's not exactly pristine, so you might have to overlook a few scuffs. All in all, it's a solid choice for a relaxed evening or a lively start to your night out; just plan for weekends if you're after that full-on atmosphere, and you'll have a whale of a time.