About This Pub
Ah, the Edinburgh Castle Pub in Manchester is one of those places that just feels like a proper find, you know? It's been around since 1811, right in the heart of Ancoats, and they've done a cracking job restoring it while keeping that timeless character alive. Downstairs, it's all about that cosy pub feel with candlelight, a solid lineup of ales, whiskies, and cocktails that pair brilliantly with a chat over the bar. Head upstairs to Bangkok Diners Club, and you're in for some seriously tasty Thai grub – think bold, unforgettable dishes that had me and my lot raving about the flavours long after we left. It's no wonder they've nabbed a spot in the Estrella Damm Top 50 Gastropubs; it's got that mix of tradition and a modern twist that makes it stand out. On a sunny day, grabbing a seat outside in Cutting Room Square with a drink and a snack is just the ticket. But, fair's fair, the portions can be a bit stingy for what you're shelling out, and things like wine glasses might feel overpriced if you're after something more generous. Still, if you're up for a special evening without it being too stuffy, I'd say give it a go – just plan ahead and maybe save room for seconds!
Pros and Cons
Pros
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The Thai food upstairs at Bangkok Diners Club is an absolute delight, with punchy flavours and inventive dishes that really hit the spot.
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The pub itself has a warm, welcoming atmosphere in a beautifully restored historic building, perfect for soaking up that cosy vibe with a pint or a whisky.
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They've got a great selection of drinks, including expertly kept ales and a fresh wine list, plus outdoor seating in Cutting Room Square for when the sun's out.
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It's an award-winning spot, making it feel special without being too pretentious – ideal for a casual catch-up or a celebration.
Cons
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Portions for the food can be on the small side, which might leave you wanting more, especially if you're paying a bit extra for it.
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Drinks and meals can feel a tad pricey, like those small glasses of wine that don't quite stretch as far as you'd hope.
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Booking can be a bit fiddly, with the restaurant upstairs needing reservations and the pub often being walk-in only, plus they're closed on Mondays which is a shame for midweek visits.
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Some folks have mentioned issues with cancellations or no-shows, so it's worth double-checking to avoid any unexpected fees.
Contact Information
17 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 5EP
Pub
Opens at 17:00
Opening Hours
Monday | Closed |
Tuesday (Today) | 17:00 - 23:00 |
Wednesday | 17:00 - 23:00 |
Thursday | 12:00 - 23:00 |
Friday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Saturday | 12:00 - 00:00 |
Sunday | 12:00 - 21:00 |
Recent Reviews
Having ate and really enjoyed District, we were so happy to see the opening of Bangkok Diners Club and booked to come for my partners birthday.
The food- genuinely lovely, I can't fault the food as a party of 2 we ordered the bass, chicken skewers, sea bream, massam, onions rings and omelette and I would struggle to pick a favourite really similar to the quality food served in District.
The service- With a booking at 13.30 on a Saturday if anything the service was a little fast, we had ate and settled up by 14:10. Although our waitress was personable and pleasant she didnt really explain the menu or how the restaurant reccomends ordering.
So why 2 stars- We had ordered 2 drinks in the Edinburgh Castle downstairs and brought them up, I asked if this was ok and was told it was fine (no mention of a corkage charge). After leaving I noticed a charge "open drink" of £12.00 on our bill, something I think I would be ok with if mentioned/ highlighted in advance... .although disproportionally expensive in comparison to what we brought up and the price of drinks (we might as well have ordered 2 drinks in the retaurant). There was also a charge for a negroni on the bill for £11.50, this is something we didn't order or drink, in some ways it feels the oldest trick in the book and its almost my fault for not noticing but with an additional service charge of £11.63 (which I had at the time happily paid) on the total bill of £93.00 it seems 25% of the bill was incorrect charges. On balance I dont think we would return despite enjoying the food.
Food from Bangkok Diners Club was very flavourful and delicious. Portions were on the small side for the prices but punchy flavours make up for it.
Go upstairs - lovely pub but the Bangkok Diners club upstairs is an absolute delight. Incredible Thai food.
We celebrated our anniversary here last night.
We hadn't been to the Edinburgh Castle before and we weren't disappointed. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming and very cosy.
We came to dine here because we love head chef Gabe Lea's food who moved here from Maya.
Yet again we were blown away by the menu. Locally sourced produce cooked to perfection.
All the dishes we had were absolutely delicious and well worth the 2 hours travelling time to dine here.
I'm sure Gabe's outstanding dishes, with his attention to detail will get his hard work recognised again soon by being listed in the Michelin guide again. With lots more accolades to follow.
Well done team 👏
Visited EC last night after it being on our ‘list’ for a while, it was our anniversary! Food is borderline ‘fine dining’ but rest assured it was delicious! Annoyingly they don’t serve large glasses of wine and the small glasses are expensive! That would be my only complaint I suppose!
We had the Oysters, pollen sourdough, sausage, mussels, shared the Guinness pie, had a side of the chips and veg!
The only reason a 3 for atmosphere was because it was super quiet in there, suppose weather was glorious and it was only a Wed evening!
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