The Banyan Tree in Salford

Ah, The Banyan Tree – it's one of those neighbourhood gems in Castlefield that just feels like a proper local haunt, you know? From what I've gathered from the buzz around it, the staff are an absolute delight, always chatting and making sure you're comfortable, which makes popping in for a drink or a meal feel like catching up with mates. The food's a real highlight too; whether it's a hearty breakfast, a bang-on burger with a beer, or those fancy cocktails during happy hour, it's all pretty spot-on, and they've got options for vegans and gluten-free folks, which is thoughtful. Plus, they're dead supportive of other local businesses, and with events like the Monday pub quiz or even hosting weddings, there's always something going on to liven things up. The tunes are great as well – I hear they've even got a Spotify playlist worth nabbing! But, let's be honest, it's not flawless; you might have to hang about a bit to get seated, and there have been a few grumbles about things like eggs not being runny enough or a slightly tough muffin, which can put a dampener on the experience if you're after perfection. Overall, though, with such high ratings and a real community feel, I'd say it's well worth a visit for anyone looking for a relaxed spot in Manchester – just go in with realistic expectations and you'll likely have a cracking time.