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mark m says..“ 76%; of all statistics are made up on the spot” |
curiosity = dead cat says..“ Just being nosey, big queue outside town hall on Albert Square... what's it all about???? Anyone know? ” |
Jody says..“ Giraffe is like a Wacky Warehouse gone wrong. The food is amateurish and the sit in Spinningfields so cramped that you walk out with neck ache. We really don't need this place.” |
Gareth says..“ Wayne - re Frank Black...when is today?!” |
Anonymous says..“ HiI received a call on my mobile to say I'd won a night at the Renaissance on your website but I'm still waiting for written confirmation” |
Anonymous says..“ It might be an idea to put your name so they know who you are.” |
nathan says..“ does anynody feel we've lost our goverment to private businesses ???” |
kittirox says..“ Subway breakfasts... the only time I've taken a bite out of a sandwich and put it in the bin. Completely gross - don't be sucked in by the brekkie vouchers!” |
johnthebrief says..“ FAO - Horrified Observer - the best pub quiz in Manchester is 9pm every Monday night at Tribeca on Sackville Street. (and no I'm not the quizmaster or an employee)” |
Jonathan Schofield - editor says..“ Dear Johnthebrief it's on our list.” |
Gordo says..“ I agree with you, JtB, more money please” |
johnthebrief says..“ If you're short of readies this month Gordo, check out Kim by the Sea in Hulme” |
MikeB says..“ I can't believe it Krispy Kreme have stopped making the Manchester Tart donut.Someone needs to start a campaign to get them ” |
GJH says..“ No no no MikeB - coconut, on a dougnut?!Like jam on a pizza!” |
drew peacock says..“ Mo...Are you a press photographer or summat?...why would anyone other than that be taking a pic of the opening of a doughnut shop ffs?...” |
Kev P says..“ I just finally got around to watching the Sex and the City movie trailer and weed my pants in excitement.” |
ithastobeme says..“ £21 for 3 courses and unlimited wine at vermillion?? My I'm SURE that was what Harvey Nicks do???” |
allan workman says..“ i wonder if anyone could sell me a ticket for next week eufa cup final cheers allan workman (glasgow p`s no touts thank -you” |
Johnthebrief says..“ Hey Jonathan, what happened to the second half of the interview with the muppet in charge of the metro?” |
ste says..“ Ive just heard the new release by manchester band Air Cav , how good are they ? Better that some i could mention ,liam . ” |
Mr T says..“ Having had a great night out, i'm now home eating crispy chicken. rock the **** on mancunia!” |
scoteee says..“ no i didnt do a spell check or a grammar check!!!! I'm busy me !” |
Billy one ear says..... says..“ whats up with the San Carlo Story? About time someone is making money if you read the newspapaers all you want to do is hang yourself” |
Mat says..“ I agree with johnthebrief about the advertorials masquerading as news stories on ManCon. It doesn't do your credibility any favours.” |
Jonathan Schofield says..“ Mat, we always read the comments and from Friday we're going to have a Rant of the Week article to show we do. And thanks for that. ” |
Thoroughbred Manc says..“ I'm currently loving www.waiterrant.net. Just thought I'd share with the group.” |
Gemma says..“ Oops! forgot to put the name of boutique. MODISTE on Lower Hillgate” |
Bob the builder says..“ Sleb spotting-Neil Morrisey enjoying a pint or several with his 'Dylan' co stars in the Marble on Rochdale rd. Bloody loud fella!” |
Anonymous says..“ Is anyone in town at the minute, i hear a man has been knocked over by a bus outside Marks and Spencers food!! ” |
vikas says..“ hi am vikas,from india,looking for ajob in airlines,or in hospitality,but ilove to work with airlines” |
mark m says..“ has anyone seen 'gordoworld.com'. maybe this is an old one, but if u know gordo it is quite funny really” |
louise8 says..“ does anyone know the details of one of those cab firms that come out on a scooter and drive your car home for you?” |
mark m says..“ scooterman.co.uk, oddly enuff!!!” |
anon says..“ Is panacea in Alderley edge any good?” |
Wes Browns Knee. says..“ My Scouse bird told me to do it.” |
intheknow says..“ Hey has anyone come across this:http://www.nxtbook.com/nxtbooks/nxteu/200809_nxtmanchester/index.php#/0” |
Anonymous says..“ FFS- another post about Steve Pilling - can ManCon just run a headline story about Sam's / Tom's to keep all the bloody posts in one place” |
Cliff says..“ hey Modiste you are so right, not big portions but spot on qaulity.” |
Cliff says..“ Viva la differrence.!! long live the independant, Good luck to Harpers and make sure the staff get all the tips!” |
sazzle says..“ no wonder his other overhyped sh*thole burnt down ” |
rozzybaby says..“ Just warning people not to eat at the Mitre Hotel cafe on Exchange Square, waited over 45 minutes yesterday for the worst sandwich ever!” |
Just bought it says..“ I spend that a month. will save me £100 a month. no brianer.” |
Caroline, Whalley Range says..“ ....no brianer. Love it!” |
Chickadee says..“ Is that Panacea featured in the Bold 2in1 White Diamond and Lotus Flower advert on the telly?” |
Avo says..“ yeah chickadee it is!!” |
Chickadee says..“ Brings a bold fresh smelling perspective to washing your dirty laundry in public!” |
emma grace says..“ can someone please review San Rocco and see if the staff are just as rude as they were to me....? many thanks” |
mark says..“ if you came across to them as opinionated as you do on here then i am not surprised that they were rude to you.xx” |
Jenn says..“ www.waiterrant.netGenius (I must admit I got the link from here but enjoyed it so much I thought I'd pass it on!)” |
FiFiXrd says..“ caroline from whalley range - your comment is class. "A no Brianer?" - which brian are you referring to?” |
Gordo says..“ That'll be ex girlfriend now, to you MancMan! Any girls out their with cheap hardo habits and like eating a lot?” |
rosie says..“ I'd volunteer myself to be Gordo's flopsy,but I have no idea what a "hardo habit" is.Maybe I'm too sheltered....” |
Thoroughbred Manc says..“ I think he meant 'hairdo habit', rosie. |
Richard Johnson says..“ What's going on at the former Cocoa Rooms? Looks like it is re-opening. Anyone know? ” |
The Mog Mert says..“ Mr Yeah, meant to say, have you got a girlfriend?” |
Avo says..“ I thoroughly agree with The Times. The Indian Ocean is a wicked place which I first visited when I was in my teens. Their seafood dishes are also very good.” |
Avo says..“ I admit it, I love Man Con as much as I love Man U. That's why I check the site at half time...” |
mancman says..“ Nice to see such a humble apology!” |
Phil Specter says..“ ooh, MancMan, i see you haven't found that life yet...” |
Likes a Chinese says..“ Whats trhe best Chines in the city? I am coming in two weeks...” |
mark m says..“ After a review on here i went to red n hot, faulkner street. just awesome. sechuan style with very interesting use of offal” |
Anonymous says..“ What's happened to Love Saves the Day on Thomas St? ” |
scoteee says..“ Love Saves the Day went in to liquidation.” |
Bee says..“ Simply Yours does seperate bits of control wear for top and bottom halves so you can mix and match.” |
Anonymous says..“ i saw the iranian crew run past the station there were to fast to catch up to and got away” |
Avo says..“ The bar is open from midday till 11pm. It looks to be a good place to visit as the cocktails are done by ex socio staff and the food is done by Robert Owen Brown.” |
GJH says..“ Why is the halloween bash at circle the only entry on man con that is not available to read and rant? ” |
Editorial says..“ No GJH that was an oversight. There will be a rant facility appearing in five, four, three, two, one.......now.” |
toskio suki says..“ Hey Sal you a boy or a gir l .Y You sound fun over here from Japan and like going out having goodtime cheeky ” |
Neighbourhood Watch says..“ Does anybody know whats the deal with the police in the northern quarter every weekend??? They had a metal detector on blue on Saturday night...” |
emma grace says..“ I think that says more about Bluu than the Northern Quarter in general...” |
emma grace says..“ In that case, I think it's pretty obvious what's going on!! tut tut” |
Zabzy says..“ Do you think sniffer dogs enjoy bing?” |
Anonymous says..“ I think they love bing!!!” |
Anonymous says..“ I suggest you send an email to andrea@mattandphreds.com . She's great and will definitely get back to you.” |
Anonymous says..“ Yes Andrea has been my contact for 3 emails and 3 telephone calls, but has confirmed they are busy and will confirm if my reservation last Monday, still no word.” |
Richard Higgins says..“ Anyone else getting sick of door to door begging in South Manchester? We're in Whalley Range and its become at least a weekly occurence now.” |
emma grace says..“ there's a restaurant in didsbury, next door to M20...anyone got any idea what it's called??” |
Muso says..“ Great gig coming up...Legendary Neville Staple from The Specials, supported by Manchester band The Ambush, Moho Live, Fri 16th Jan.www.nevillestaple.co.ukwww.myspace.com/anambush ” |
viva chris ronald... says..“ http://uk.travelzoo.com/ try this miss grace” |
mark m says..“ www.onewayticketasfarawayaspossible.com is just for you EG :o))” |
emma grace says..“ Wouldn't make a difference mark...I can still rant from Germany |
mark m says..“ Oh yeah. ah well. happy hunting. ” |
scoteee says..“ Ms G have you tries travel supermarket?” |
emma grace says..“ No...but I will. Thanks!” |
ilove1984 says..“ Hey, what happened to Job Confidential? xx” |
Purple Manc says..“ Manchester for University Challenge Champions! C'mon!” |
Mark Garner, The Publisher says..“ ilove1984, the recession is what happened to Jobs! We have 'mothballed' it until later in the year.” |
ilove1984 says..“ Cheers Mark...just when i am looking for a job though!! Grr ;)” |
Dig says..“ And what happened to Yousaf calling regarding a job?” |
Anonymous says..“ yes there is, just look at the bottom of the page! That's what I do.” |
michelle says..“ Do we know who has won the Valentines meal at Abode?! x” |
Anonymous says..“ Was it the same person who won the "cook for us competition"?” |
ilove1984 says..“ Jonathan - I enjoyed you TV appearance last night! Can you tell me how you can get into doing the tour guide course, or how you can get carreres in Manchester tourism? Thanks ” |
Jonathan Schofield says..“ We'll be all over them like a rash next week. Thanks for asking though. Editor.” |
Jack says..“ What's going on down at CIDS - Their offices are 'to let' and The Drum says they are closing, but no news elsewhere - conspicuously nothing in their own Creative Times... any news?” |
Lee says..“ Sooo excited that San Carlos is coming to Dubai, I've been missing it!Let me know if you want a review ManCon.” |
Baby says..“ I've seen the new Ithaca offer. Best savings are on Sunday with 50%; off your food bill - shame it's not open on a Sunday then” |
???? says..“ Have i missed something? Has this now become CheshireOaks.com??? Talk about selling your Soul!” |
Steve says..“ Mr Schofield, i see your point but ?? has a point i feel too. I'll give you 10p a week but i want to win at least 10 competitions a yr.” |
Jonathan Schofield - editor says..“ Steve, what is the point, I'm intrigued? This is a free access site after all.” |
Avo says..“ Shut up and get prepping. You need to sort out your mis en place boy!” |
Descartes says..“ I don't think it's that bad, not that different from a full page ad in the evening news is it? I just click passed it, does me fine :)” |
mark m says..“ It lasts all of a few seconds. Get a grip folks” |
Castlefield says..“ It's irritating. Not taking over my life, don't think I need to get a grip. Just don't like it. Call it an opinion.” |
Ken Barlow says..“ Long time reader is right, this Cheshire Oaks stuff takes the pi$$. 'The voice of the city'??? is that as long as its what cheshire oaks thinks. City Life anyone?” |
emma grace says..“ I don't really see what the big deal is. My only issue with it is those godawful shoes she's got on...” |
Avo says..“ How about Harvey Nics or The Modern. Both do excellent food with great views of the city. ” |
Anonymous says..“ tip: The Art of Tea in Didsbury is now open evenings with new menu and full liquor licence...” |
Avo says..“ So whose going to the Pot au Feu night at the New Oxford then?” |
johnthebrief says..“ I've got the Paypal receipt Avo, but Gordo has yet to acknowledge my booking....” |
emma grace says..“ You ended up ON Corridor Avo?? Crikey, must have been a good night...” |
Avo says..“ Erm yeah...I nearly fell through the skylight...” |
johnthebrief says..“ Well I hope to see you there...” |
mark m says..“ Twas a fun night last time JTB. Hope to see you again!! i am sure u will get the nod as we still got 2 tickets left unsold i believe” |
mark m says..“ 2 courses of pot au feu, smelly cheese, and my own tarte au citron MUST unlock her charms!!” |
MEN Insider says..“ I also have heard the rumours 'curious' has heard and from some good f&b sources. Maybe this is why we all now read cheshire oaks confidential, hmmmm.....????” |
Karen says..“ Why does the MEN remove so many comments? Why does it not allow comments on such stories? Come on Insider let us know.” |
curious says..“ MEN Insider - tell us more ??? or is this statement very much like your paper, bull s**t.” |
Avo says..“ Gordo! I hope you're busy baking your famous walnut bread for tonight. Or are me and the boy Mottram right in presuming that you'll jack off all the hard work and nip to the Barbakan?” |
johnthebrief says..“ Walnut bread sounds nice, but I'm afraid the brief don't eat no nuts” |
Avo says..“ Have no fear, I'll eat yours JtB.” |
Gordo says..“ David Bright's cooking and George's wine got in the way of last nights baking, was too pissed to bake. It will the barbakan, i will get a loaf of Warburton's for JtB” |
johnthebrief says..“ In that case I'll be looking for a substantial rebate ;-)” |
Avo says..“ Erm, you weren't going to eat the bread anyway. No loss = no recompense.” |
rosie says..“ can't believe that Avo is offering to eat JtB's nuts.should make for some interesting after dinner entertainment” |
mark m says..“ I want to thank all those who came last night and made it such fun. Cheers to you all” |
johnthebrief says..“ You beat me to it Mark, I was going to thank you for putting on such a memorable feast. I look forward to the Boar's Head Feast in due course!” |
emma grace says..“ Before anyone suggests it, I've already downloaded it. Would just like to have the originals...thanks” |
Avo says..“ Why don't you just unsubscribe to the ManCon emails?” |
John says..“ Castlefields exactly right, readers are customers and Gordo you treat them like dirt off your shoe.” |
Descartes says..“ I bet Gordo's like that mad granny in Allo Allo, he probably doesn't mean any harm, just gets a bit excited from time to time ;)” |
M1 says..“ Very funny Descartes, i always imagine Gordo to be abit more Roy Cropper from corrie rather than mad granny haha” |
Gio says..“ Anyone know what is happening with the ManCon Privilege Card? At least two of the restaurants on the list have closed their doors for good & there is no sign of any additional eateries. ” |
paulm says..“ Castlefield, maybe pick up the phone, write an email, I dunno... do something yourself instead of expecting the media to do it for you?!” |
Castlefield says..“ Paul M, ManCon have asked for people to give them issues like this to deal with. That's why I did. Not a difficult equation.” |
paulm says..“ Castlefield... yeah that's a good point actually, they did. Fair enough :o)” |
Castlefield says..“ Thanks, sorry for being sarcastic!” |
Avo says..“ I'm flicjk on ManCon most of the day so know about the offers and articles before I get the emails anyway. Which makes me quite a sad individual really...” |
sue says..“ just wondering is the story about queen moving to manchester a APRIL FOOLS JOKE!” |
foolish ape says..“ sue, I refer you to the latest comment in the actual story. Elvis is involved too...” |
emma grace says..“ Drove past Pau Brasil this morning, anyone know why they've changed the name to Bem Brasil?” |
Avo says..“ I think there was a similar establishment somewhere down South which already had that name so Pau Brasil had to change it to Bem Brasil.” |
Dig says..“ The Dream sculpture is beuautiful. It has an aura and presence about it akin to that of Antony Gormleys Another Place. A spiritual ambience. ” |
Editorial says..“ We have an article going up about this work in the next week or so. Castlefield article will follow tomorrow or Tuesday depending on when we get a couple of last things.” |
Gezzabelle says..“ Who's that good looking couple on the 24 hour karaoke article ;-)” |
chick says..“ why are half the stories/rants unavailable??” |
Mr Chilly says..“ I used to frequent Harpers but Ive not been for 2 years. Has Felix gone now and is a new menu in the place ?” |
Anonymous says..“ Mr. Chilly. I believe Felix has retired and Harpers is now run by Eugenio & Kenny with a new menu including tapas, and a whole new look. Hope this helps you” |
scoteee says..“ Just had a call back from frog and bucket and free tickets have been booked...thank you and apologies” |
Jonathan Schofield - Editor says..“ Steve. We have talked to Glamourous Restaurant and they said no they didn't have separate menus and they were too busy to talk to us ever. ” |
Anonymous says..“ PLEASE don't go the The Laundry Shop on Oxford Street. Customer service is awful, clothes come back damaged and they will in no way accept responsibility for the damage.” |
Remnant says..“ I know it's probably so non-"pc" no- one will admit to selling it, but is there anywhere one can buy foie gras in Manchester?” |
Chick says..“ Harvey Nicks I believe Remnant” |
Trevor Tivens says..“ They're not that bad. Honestly have you ever been out of this country and say walked around Madrid or Rome?” |
Remnant says..“ Thank you, Chick - is that just in the caff or can you get tinned takeaway?” |
Remnant says..“ Thank you, Chick - is that just in the caff or can you get tinned takeaway?” |
Chick says..“ Remnant; you could buy it at the deli counter in a jar - think Selfridges used to sell it too? ” |
cleo says..“ oh it's hardly a caff, remnant!” |
James says..“ Took up the Zouk £15 buffet offer last Sunday.Nice décor, friendly but not very efficient staff. VERY mediocre food. The black pepper lamb one to AVOID.Wont be rushing back” |
Prop fan says..“ well said, looks like Gordo has well and truely lost his tongue up Zouks a**e” |
Baby says..“ and of course Ben, a mega rant from 'the publisher' after someone dared to actually not pee themselves after visiting this restaurant......” |
Ben says..“ But I thought it was common knowledge that the chef at Zouk can walk on water?? (ha)” |
Ben says..“ Yes that's all well and good, but do your advertisers pay you to make out that they are in fact the second coming of Christ?” |
Castlefield says..“ that sounds a fair price” |
Cas says..“ Anyone know anything about Don Marco's, just opened Hilton end of Liverpool Road, in the arches next to Dimitris?” |
gor says..“ Do you not think the latest rants should be at the top of the page? I used to click on here and just assume it hadnt been updated.” |
Descartes says..“ Tonight at 9pm Emma. (Thursday 18th for the poor souls that missed it and are reading this on Friday ;)” |
emma grace says..“ Lovely, thanks D. Where's the screen? Spinningfields?” |
Cas says..“ It's on the lovely bit of grass outside Pret and Carluccios. If you haven't already, get yourself one of those Spinningfields yellow cards - you get 2-4-1 and 50%; off all around there.” |
emma grace says..“ Likewise...well as long as I know it's Spinningfields I'm sure I'll find it. Thank you! I can't wait to see the scene in the cake shop on the big screen!!” |
emma grace says..“ Thanks Cas...how do I get my grubby mitts on one of those little beauties then???” |
Cas says..“ Google spinningfields and it comes up top, on the site is also the full list of films they'll be showing over the summer. Hope it doesn't rain for you!” |
Descartes says..“ Damn, you had to say it didn't you? tsk Cas - you can't tempt rain fate in Manchestershire. It's bound to now” |
emma grace says..“ Everyone just ssshhhhhh about the r*in....” |
Ben says..“ Anyone else see Britney last night? The part where she shouted "whassup London?" was hilarious” |
Cas says..“ Mr Sleuth, who won the champers?” |
emma grace says..“ Cas...I just wanted to make it clear that I hold you wholly responsible for the foul weather last night. That hailstone was a direct result of your tempting of fate...shame on you” |
Cas says..“ Sorry Emma. If it makes you feel any better, we got soaked coming back from Alberts Shed!” |
Ben says..“ Where is the gay and lesbian section? I mean, it had a vast room for improvement - but would still be appreciated! I'd love to write something for it if you're stuck for inspiration” |
Lou says..“ Does any one know who has taken over the site of the old video shop in west dids? I saw some builders in there on saturday. It's about time something was done with it.” |
WorkingInDidsbury says..“ Apologies everyone....my above 'rant' submitted twice by mistake...Ooops!” |
Jonathan Schofield says..“ Emma, know it well. Good call. It's just that we seem to have been Ramsbottom Confidential this year so we might hold back for a while.” |
Si says..“ Lou, Great Kathmandu is expanding into the old VidBiz place.” |
Paul says..“ Sorry....I meant the Battered Cod Burnage!!!I'm desperate for fish. ” |
Anonymous says..“ Hmmm, that's not such a great thing, being that the sea is the heart of our ecosystem, no fish would be quite bad. You sure they only stock unsustainable fish at Out of the blue?” |
Harold Evans says..“ When Urban Life goes, my life will me without meaning. It's such a heavyweight publication. ” |
Big bad bob says..“ What a joke that Urban life is, complete waste of paper and as for Citylife, does anyone actually read it??” |
scoteee says..“ I don't, but I will always pich up my copy as it's definately smoother than Andrex with Aloe vera. ” |
N says..“ I've heard Rio Ferdinand is opening an italian restaurant and bar in manchester.Can anyone tell me where and when.” |
Anonymous says..“ Just to ask if the property ads of rented apartments could actually include a dimensioned plan as well as the photos. :-)” |
Cas says..“ That'll be the same sit that values the BBC at around £30m and Gazprom at 5k!” |
£2,800??? says..“ i'll offer £51 and i wanna move in asap,haha” |
hazel murphy says..“ We went to the Angel tonight and are unlikely to return. The food was disappointing .The place needs a good clean throughout.” |
Anonymous says..“ I protest: there is nothing wrong with Ithaca apart from the people who dine there.” |
Cas says..“ Can someone tell me if the general public can go new smithfield market for fish? Is it worth it? What unearthly hour would I need to be there?” |
Cas says..“ Will give it a whirl, thanks.” |
Anonymous says..“ Who are the occasional men on the " Body Confidential pages.... are they gay?” |
Anonymous says..“ Not only is Aadab Restaurant opening next to 'The Hut' on Liverpool Road, Dimitries is expanding into Jowata, and 'Lal Qila' is opening in the former Negresco...” |
Anonymous says..“ Tried to go to the Angel last night, no answer on the phone and looked in darkness. Anmyone know whats going on ” |
Anonymous says..“ ROB has done his usual and fooked off. Wonder how many staff/suppliers/landlord etc he has also fooked off this time.” |
mark m says..“ It was certainly not just meant to be short term. ” |
Anonymous says..“ And the non card facilities? Considering anyone can get a terminal in under a month.” |
Fi says..“ Quite. Francis Carrol is the front of house version of ROB” |
lucky-chris says..“ Schofield - I CANNOT believe you just did that.” |
Chick says..“ Excuse typos, I'm livid!!” |
rosie says..“ p.s. why didn't you remove the whole post instead of leaving the first sentance,thus making me sound(read?)like a sycophantic little twat??” |
Red Ken says..“ Lets get the Angel / ROB / Mark Addy rant back on . Come on Man Con , be brave , bold and show some Elan” |
Chick says..“ We live in hope Red Ken, we live in hope. Elan; interesting choice of word. Mine would be balls.” |
mark m says..“ never going to hapen RK or chick. I must say, having been very involved, what did you expect MANCON?” |
rosie says..“ hi Chick, Mark M was Rob's business partner when the Angel opened. He's also my partner (as in the guy I live with), which is why I have a personal interest in the debate.” |
HieronymousBiff says..“ I believe they have a lively forum at www.self-righteous.com you might be interested in. Tedious serial posters welcomed apparantly.” |
Curry Lover says..“ Believe me guys, ain't no-one going to be able to win an argument with Cas. He/she spends two hours a day arguing with an empty room. I am back off to my life.” |
Cas says..“ Probably find Rob there. Now I'll just get my restaurant reviews from City Life. Maybe not as witty but hopefully more impartial. Off to the beach.” |
gor says..“ this is getting boring.” |
Gordo knows who says..“ Hi Gordo, just booked for Harvey Nichols, see you there, you can buy me a drink as you have not done "The Ramsons" thing with us. look forward to seeing you .” |
Jonathan Schofieldld - editor says..“ Anon, must have missed that. Where is the comment, which story, and we'll remove it.” |
Andy says..“ PS. Did I really just see an elected official citing an MEN "poll" and saying it informed policy? Jeez, we are knackered.” |
lucky-chris says..“ http://www.manchesterconfidential.co.uk/index.asp?Sessionx=IaqiNwB6IHqiNwP6IHqi have to say... you lads must love coming to work every day!” |
Cas says..“ What's the big fire in town?” |
scoteee says..“ no news anywhere about the fire last night or this morning” |
Anonymous says..“ have you got a twitter page ?” |
Anonymous says..“ Food to suit every pallet?. How big is the food?..and I didn't win tickets anyway” |
J says..“ Maggs, I take it you weren't made to feel you weren't welcome then? Oh and the pictures are supposed to represent the food served? That was my point...” |
Destino says..“ Message to J says, sorry about your experience J, we truly did not think we acted in this manner, apoligies, come and have a drink on us.” |
Janeybaby says..“ Yes, that linguine has been well pared down from what they gave Gordo obviously” |
Avo says..“ I'd seriously question the culinary palette of anyone who orders ducks tongue pickled in garlic vinegar when going for a dim sum lunch.” |
Travelmanc says..“ Sir Richard promised all main access lines into Manchester will be working and free from congestion by Nov 2nd” |
Cliff says..“ Had a great meal at Destino , well worth the effort . You have to support business that are not chains” |
J says..“ You are rude! I'm quite within my rights to complain...shame there isn't the right channel to do so!” |
east lancs says..“ So in summary; everybody but J had a brilliant time at Destinos?” |
Anonymous says..“ Thats very unfair to the editor, he's had little to do with the 'debate' he's just bored of it so called it a day, every debate has an end afterall.” |
Anonymous says..“ Persecution complex much?” |
O says..“ Hey Angela's backkk, you lynch anyone last night? ” |
Cas says..“ Anyone had the Obsidian meal deal thing yet?” |
Anonymous says..“ Editor: Can we have some more restaurant reviews please, they seem to be thin on the ground lately.” |
chuffed says..“ ..ace - am going to Obsidian on Friday night and am really pleased to hear that I won't be dissapointed. Has anyone been to Aumbry in Prestwich yet?” |
gor says..“ I dont care about the Kinofilm European Short Film Festival BORE OFF” |
Gordo says..“ Cas, thanks for that. The last time we reviewed it was really poor, but that was a while ago. We will give it another go and see if we agree. We do know things have changed.” |
lucky-chris says..“ Might be a longshot... Does anyone know of any pubs/bars showing UFC on Saturday? (ESPN)” |
Anonymous says..“ Yes come on Schofield, lets get the Council actually undoing that shift back in 2002 when when they nicked thousands of parking spots of us.” |
Tired Independent Shopkeeper says..“ I am on for this, my business needs more people coming here by cars, whatever you think of them, they are here for the next thirty years or so.” |
Cas says..“ How many articles today??? Stop it, it's almost like someone is trying to prove a point! ;)” |
mark m says..“ Went to Damson the other night. WOW. Just had to comment. WOW” |
Anonymous says..“ arrange for the rants to be delete after 2/3 months” |
gor says..“ so who is going to pay for this then... not me” |
Care to explain mancon? says..“ i read corltonists comments and I'm a so called "Hero" and would like to know BEFORE I send another tenner!” |
Mark Garner, the Publisher says..“ Calling Ostara as we speak. Care To Explain, please email me on the Heroes email you have for comment or wait until I have had an explanation off the restaurant. ” |
frosty says..“ Gordo... I owe you a couple of pints for pointing me in the direction off the mark addy. Fantastic lunch there yesterday.” |
scoteee says..“ Ed, any plans to review Rosso's yet?” |
Jonathan Schofield says..“ Scotee, we normally give it ten to fourteen days before we visit. ” |
johnthebrief says..“ Did you have the blackened steak, Gordo? I hear it's tremendous...” |
johnthebrief says..“ Damien, you're spot an about Karims. |
scoteee says..“ i'll agree on that one.I am a Hero how do I book a nice table please?” |
johnthebrief says..“ Gordo - I've booked a table at Rosso for the 12th Dec: as I'm a hero as well can you make sure it's a great table or arrange for a couple of brazilian girls to sit with me?” |
scoteee says..“ Apologies, I have dug out the"Heros" e-mail and will go through that.” |
Cas says..“ Scoteee, you won't be shocked to know I think the correct decision was made. ” |
O says..“ What a shock eh Scottee? I don't think so. It was never going to go against the banks that one in the current climate. ” |
tblzebra says..“ Stockport Plaza too Jim?” |
Lou says..“ http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/article6934109.eceIsn't this our old tree? Ungrateful gits. we should take it back!” |
Anonymous says..“ Someone just commented that Ithaca has gone tits-up. Anyone?” |
Anonymous says..“ is being a hero like having a black Amex ?” |
Cas says..“ Lisa, I'm sure ManCon will be as concerned as you and sort something out. ” |
rosie says..“ I couldn't be arsed reading past him calling Lisa a liar. Told me all I need to know about "new" Ithaca.” |
NorthernGeezer says..“ Being full on a Friday and Saturday night dont mean everything is ok.BTW.................do they do pies??.” |
Anonymous says..“ Oh dear, when ARNIE S HIRA, real or fake, sees this, I doubt he'll be happy with the PR from his new management team” |
scoteee says..“ don't talk bollox anon, you probably never have been there anyhow, and have no intention.You just came on here to rock the boat and anonymously at that!” |
classifieds section good idea says..“ yeah!” |
anonymous says..“ scoteee,cas,chick,rosie,are separately identifiable and this is apparent when they rant.anonymous,anonymous and anonymous are not.” |
Anonymous says..“ "I'm sorry, i'll look into it, would you like a free meal to make up for it?" THAT is the only response he should have come back with.” |
Chick says..“ What's happened to the Strictly Confidential offer at Ithaca? ” |
Dan Brown says..“ Hands off Charlie, Jonathan Ithaca, writes all my novels for me and then I simply add my name. ” |
Madchester says..“ Ano - dont hold back will you!” |
johnthebrief says..“ Tristan - any chance you could archive or delete some of this rant? It's 2 years old, and it's so long that if I try to access it my computer sulks for 10 minutes” |
Gordo says..“ I agree, u ok with that Jonathan, it goes on forever; the new design will solve it but it's a ba****d on my iPhone” |
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I went to see the Spice Girls at the MEN Arena last night. I really really enjoyed it as I have always been a big fan of the girls. One thing annoyed me though. We got there at about 7 o'clock . We knew that there was no support so we expected the girls to come on stage fairly shortly. However, the show didn't come on stage till 9. I paid £80 for my ticket plus booking fee on seetickets.com, and I think that to have no support act but not come on earlier than 9 o'clock is a bit much for that much money. What does anyone else think?
Following the views expressed by 76% of Mancunians in a Manchester Evening News poll in favour of an organised New Year's Eve celebration in our city, Manchester Lib Dems have responded. We are moving a motion at this week's Council meeting calling for a public consultation to begin. We believe that any New Year’s Eve celebrations must be safe, financially viable and have the support of the business sector and public.Now is the right time to review the Council’s previous policy of not holding a New Year’s Eve celebration. Many big cities across the UK and Europe hold successful and enjoyable New Year’s Eve celebrations. I'm sure here in Manchester we would do it even better than them! I hope for cross-party support from all Councillors to make Manchester's New Year's Eve celebrations on December 31st 2008 a reality.Cllr Paul ShannonManchester Lib Dem Deputy Leader
76% of Manchester Evening News readers can't even read, if faced with a question such as do we want a free party of course they're going to say yes. Honestly Councillor this is shamefull politicking. You want the people to rise up and vite for the small-minded liberals. We don't need a New Years Eve party let's do the other ones better.
76% of all statistics are made up on the spot
Just wanted to say have been and had 2 private ski lessons at Chill Factor with a guy called Paul Cole,and although it is expensive I thought he was a great instructor, have only ever been on snow once before and needed proper lessons. I feel much more confident in my ability and he has a great teaching manner and is very patient and encouraging.Cheers Paul.
Just being nosey, big queue outside town hall on Albert Square... what's it all about???? Anyone know?
EastzEast hellJust thought you might be interested in my horrendous experience at the new EastzEast a couple of weekends ago. I think if you read my email below you should find it fairly self explanatory… Also thought you might be interested to know that the restaurant has not seen fit to reply or even acknowledge my complaint. I feel really let down by them. I’ve been to EastzEast on a number of occasions and never had a problem, and I know that you consider them to be your favourite Indian restaurant in the city centre but obviously something went seriously wrong on that particular night. Maybe its just teething problems but I thought I at least deserved an acknowledgement from them – perhaps they don’t care? I’d be interested to know whether you’ve received any other adverse comments.
A friend of mine wants to play poker (for match-sticks) in a pub in or near the city centre but is having trouble finding one with a gambling license. Is a license needed, given no money is involved? Or does anyone out there know of a pub with such a permit?Thanks.
Giraffe - Spiningfields - horrid.Took my 2 nieces here and my husband one Staurday and it was a really bad dining experience. I know it is a fast food kind of place, but seriously McDonalds would have been better. The childrens meal of sausage and mash, was 1 shriveled sausage and a blob of mash. The chicken burger was burnt pieces of chicken that was inedible - you wouldn't feed to the dog. They didnt have the chicken wrap I wanted so I had the Meze which tasted 3 days old. Don't go near the smoothies unless you want tasteless slop. Yeah seriously this place was rubbish. Staff were nice though but I don't pay for smiles. The plastic giraffes on the cups was probably the best thing!
Giraffe is like a Wacky Warehouse gone wrong. The food is amateurish and the sit in Spinningfields so cramped that you walk out with neck ache. We really don't need this place.
Hey everybody Black Francis (Aka Frank Black front man of the Grunge legends The Pixies) will play Big Hands at 7pm today It’s a pre-core gig (like a guerilla gig). Apparently the one in Oxford (7th Feb) was brilliant and over 100 people turned up. They are hoping it will get mobbed. It precedes his NME shockwaves awards gig at the Academy later in the evening.
Have you noticed the GMP police car that seems to be a perminent fixture parked in St Ann Street (outside Habitat)throughout the day, causing an obstruction, not loading or unloading, preventing disabled badges holders a parking facility. What's it all about?
Circle = horrible horrible. Used to be interesting people, now it is just rich people. I was a member for years, even had my picture up on the wall at one point. Got convinced into having my birthday there, half price drinks and food promised. Convinced my friends against their better nature to come along. Turn up - 'no no no, it's only buy one get one free on the first drink' and even better 'who told you get buy one get one free on the food - we could not afford that'! Genius, awfull customer service. I just looked stoopid. They were either broke or desperate. I looked like a fantasist. Then the 'special room' with a broken playstation and a rubbish guitar game..awful. Cancel membership via letter & email, no contact in return. Months later debt collectors get in touch, turns out when I introduced a friend to them, I had signed up for another years membership...and they were holding me to it despite me explaining my reasons for leaving!! Oh well, they get 10 quid a month & have lost a fair bit of business since from friends and associates.Given my numerous emails to them did not meet with a single response it feels good to get this off my chest.Love. Me!
MEN - world class muppets that they are. Today's cover - apparantly global warming is an issue & we need to do something about it! Well I never. Go back to picking on poor council employees who commit minor offences. Or whatever it is you 'investigate'.
Wayne - re Frank Black...when is today?!
HiI received a call on my mobile to say I'd won a night at the Renaissance on your website but I'm still waiting for written confirmation
It might be an idea to put your name so they know who you are.
does anynody feel we've lost our goverment to private businesses ???
North - south divide. No not south of England V north of England...it's Manchester I am talking about. Its such a strong divide and completely constructed ie no real difference especially comparing either to THE REST OF THE WORLD. Whilst Chorlton has its baker (has anyone ever been to Golders Green in London) and whilst I applaud Unicorn for its principles and do occasionaly shop there (from the North of the city so I do burn up the carbs!) ther is life north of Deansgate. It shocks me how few people even know where Boddingtons is (was, its now an other car park). There is now a Croma in Prestwich and Manchesters' only chocolatiers, Slattery is in Whitefield. Nervous friends and colleagues seem determined to buy/remain south, which of course means there is more space up here but it does get a little lonely at times! There view of Manchester stretches to small areas of the south as far as the city centre.
Got used to being told by restaurants when I book for seven o'clock that they want the table back by nine. The Aladdin in Withington went one further tonight -brought me my bill unasjed at 8:15 when we were still on dessert and coffee. How's that for middle eastern hospitality?
Why is Manchester City Council so determined to stop people parking in the city centre. The proliferation of double yellow lines has been phenomenal and the (predictable) result is that our streets are gridlocked with people looking for somewhere to park. Perhaps if the council made it easier to park they'd find that both the environment and local businesses benefited, as people spend less itme running their engines and more time spending money.
John the brief is absolutely correct. I am a non smoker, but drivers are now joining smokers in the group of unwanted people. I like to visit the city centre, out of hours parking used to be easy, now it is often impossible. I am also responsible and law abiding, I would not dream of drinking and driving, nor would I park on a double yellow line.What is wrong with a few single yellow lines in quiet areas, wide roads, or side streets?All the Greater Manchester councils seem to love putting more and more paint on the roads.Let's have some more single yellows in central Manchester, it has not been abandoned to the binge drinking youth.
FITNESS FIRST GANG OF BANDITS. They lost my membership cancellation letter & charged me for the next month. Then whilst failing to get back to my phone calls took ANOTHER payment & now simply refer to the terms and conditions in refusing to give me my cash back. They know I am telling the truth & hide behind the contract. From what I hear typical. DO NOT GO NEAR. If one person has second thoughts after reading this, I will be delighted.
Subway breakfasts... the only time I've taken a bite out of a sandwich and put it in the bin. Completely gross - don't be sucked in by the brekkie vouchers!
Michael Todd, not in the public interest!!!!Maybe the police can explain how hounding my father for 18 months for a minor accident he did not have, producing statements dated before the alledged, false offence, several visits to court for the alledged victim to produce a bill for damage to her car of £150. He is supposed to have deliberately rammed her old banger, I think more than £150 damage would have been created if that had happened. Police refused to carry out a visual of forensic test on my fathers car to clear him. He basically was set up and it cost the taxpapers a lot of money. I would love someone to explain how the CPS classified this as in the public interest. Ironically my fathers formal complaint was then made confidential and he was not allowed to view what was input to cover up the polices set up and cover up as it wasn't int he public interest.
Q: When is a pub quiz not a pub quiz?A: When it becomes the 'Look-at-me-I'm-the-zany-Quizmaster' show.Ie. Trof Northern Quarter. Poor Lizzie B, relegated to the sidelines...
Went to San Carlo last night for a birthday celebration - nothing to celebrate at San Carlo. We went for the later 9.30 sitting which was fine but you can't add drinks that you have at the bar to your overall bill. Why? Mozzarella starter was cold. Hubby's main course came without his side order; my main of risotto was warm, not hot. The side order never arrived and no apology from the senior waiters was offered, despite our complaints. Not good service at all from Manchester's top rated Italian Restaurant. Don’t go there if you want a good value for money celebratory night out - you won't get one there!
Jackie , The place is appalling , San Carlo is full of Chavs and Slappers all dressed in cheap looked gold .The food is consistenly crap and the best bit , they just dont give a **** about you Every body , please go elsewhere
Party from office went to Belle Vue Dogs last thursday on the 2 4 1 offer.Great night - food OK - did not like way vegetables were served - our waitress was absolutely useless - 20 mins wait for bottle of wine - 25 min wait for 2 vodkas - need to sort out lazy waiting-on staff from helpful & efficient waiting on staff -
FAO - Horrified Observer - the best pub quiz in Manchester is 9pm every Monday night at Tribeca on Sackville Street. (and no I'm not the quizmaster or an employee)
Anyone get towed or clamped at Sale Metro today (Old Bar 2 car park)??It seems strange to me that the car park was made to look like it was open to the public for a few months whilst it got busier and busier with commuters and then all of a sudden signs were put up saying 'private property' and in one day all the cars in the car park were either towed or clamped. I reckon that's an easy £5,000 the particular 'parking services' company made today!!
I want to know why the Cinema in the trafford centre charge extra for the 'Premier Seats' ? I went to the very same cinema when it first opened and the only difference between the seats is a small screwed on plate saying 'premier seat' ? It is obvious they have pick out the most popular seats and decided to charge extra for them - this does not happen at other cinemas. The one at the Printworks is excellent, you can pay extra and help yourself to as much nacho & cheese dip as you like and you can have a beer, the seats are leather and are almost like sofa's (if you life the arm rest. If everybody complained about the charge then maybe they will do something about it! I urge you all to boycott these so called premier seats!!! If you want to spend extra money then try the printworks. PS the cheese dip for the nachos is also very good there. Lol.
Just got back from the Laundry Shop on Oxford Rd and been disgusted by the customer service. Got a pair of trousers back which had to wear for 1 day back at work and the pockets not pressed at all. Asked for repressing....NO! Was told had to pay again, after forking out a fiver to have them cleaned in the first place!!! I've used the Laundry Shop frequently over the last few years, this is the first time they have messed up but won't return after this rubbish customer service. How about an article on the best dry cleaners in the city centre... need to find one who can do the job properly!!!! Thanks for listening
Hey there Mancon, could you post a rant section on the St Petersburg offer/competition.I'd love to explain how you'd have to pay me a lot of money ever to set foot in that dreadful place ever again.
Dear Johnthebrief it's on our list.
I'll write you a review for a tenner - taking in the whole experience from non existent service, sub-Burger King food, the drunk girl wearing a velvet curtain and singing karaoke, and the obvious mafioso propping up the bar. Why did we have to lose Ikan Baby for this dump?
Johnthebrief, wow, I think you've done the review already. I quite like the idea of an obvious mafia bod by the bar. Does this man know nothing of the benefits of disguise in his line of shady business. And while I'm on here, Christian, we'll leave the dry cleaning thing for the mo, but if you want to let us know which is the best then we'll communicate that. As for the Trafford Centre point from Angela, I'll get somebody on to it next week and we'll find out what's going on.
ABODE restaurant - give the special offer a miss if you want to feel you have eaten. Portions are miniscule and you definitely need side dishes as these are not included in the price although no-one bothers to mention this to you until its too late! The cafe bar looks nice from the outside but is not finished off inside - look like an old workhouse at the back! The eating area located behind a glass screen looks like something out of an airport cafe bar and lacks ambience. Staff pleasant enough but lack training required for what is supposed to be a high quality eaterie. Wouldnt recommend it.
Hello,This is not strictly a rant but its the best place to speak to people in Manchester!Do you work in the design industry in or near the City Centre?Would you be interested in talking to us, and getting rewarded for your time?We represent one of the leading Spray Adhesive brands and are excited to chat to you about our next big campaign.If you are interested in getting involved, and would be able to spare an hour of your time TOMORROW EVENING, please feel free to get in touch.Date: Thursday 10th AprilTime: 5-6pm; 6-7pmLocation: tbc. but will be in central Manchester!Light refreshments will be provided, and recipients will be paid £15 for their time.Spaces are limited, so we look forward to hearing from you as soon as possible!Please email sprayfocus@hotmail.co.uk for more information and we will be in touch. Please feel free to tell your designer friends...Thanks for your time.
I hope the "sprayfocus" shill has paid for his/her impromptu advertisement in the RANT section! Moving on to comments on fixed priced menu deals such as the current one at Abode. Yes, most places I've been to do try to bump up the bill with the inevitable "vegetables" or "water" questions but I didn't find the need to pay extra at either Malmaison in June or Abode in April. The portions were fine and the food good. My only concern would be a) the automatic addition of a service charge at each venue and b) the apparent assumption at one place that we were leaving a further tip on top of the service charge and that there was no need for them to bring back the couple of quid change. If they need £30 (rather than £25) to make the deal work it'd be more honest to say so. But, as I say, no complaints about the food/portions.
Went to the Krispy Kreme opening this morning in Piccadilly and stood back to take a photo of them cutting the ribbons so ended up about 10th or 11th in the queue and contrary to your Krispy Kreme article they didn't give free donuts to the first twelve, just to the first 8. I had to buy mine.They are delicious though - but just wanted to put your write up right.Mo
I would like to thank Manchester Confidential for a fantastic night last night at the Cirque Surreal at the Trafford Centre, i won the tickets and had a very enjoyable evening, the show is excellent and i recomend to every one.Thanks again, Nicky
Could anybody explain why the memorial service for Michael Todd was completely overwelmed by the on-street police presence? What on earth were they all doing there? Shouldn't they have been doing other jobs?
Manchester confidential competitions.Exactly how are the winners chosen?Why ask for post codes?Our theory is that those from less affluent post codes are deliberatly excluded from the competition prizes as there is less payback!!!!Which would explain why I have won nothing in a zillion years of entering every relevant one!
GJH we take postcodes because we want to know where our readers are, this helps us with stories and promotions. All competition winners are chosen randomly, there's no postcode lottery here. As for not winning we have the best competitions and offers in Manchester but we also have more than 55,000 subscribers. Keep trying, your time may yet come.
does anyone have an events diary/guide for manchester? basically i need a list of what's on in manchester in say "august" or "october", ive tried the tourist office, various hotel foyers, marketing manchester and the metro, no one has one. I know i've seen them in the past, can anyone help?
Jonathan - Has Gordo gone part time or have you cut his expense allowance? We hardly ever get a review from him these days, and they were the reaosn I first started reading this site.
I agree with you, JtB, more money please
If you're short of readies this month Gordo, check out Kim by the Sea in Hulme
I can't believe it Krispy Kreme have stopped making the Manchester Tart donut.Someone needs to start a campaign to get them
No no no MikeB - coconut, on a dougnut?!Like jam on a pizza!
Mo...Are you a press photographer or summat?...why would anyone other than that be taking a pic of the opening of a doughnut shop ffs?...
And another thing...Man Con.. Why do new posts appear at the bottom of the pile?..shouldn't they appear at the top so we don't have to keep scrolling down all the time?..It's like having a pile of mail, lifting it up and sticking todays at the bottom.
Did anybody see this post on the Panacea review? Hellen says..“ Last Saturday night whilst enjoying some quiet drinks with professional friends in Panacea, I was approached by a short guy dressed in a dishevelled cream shirt who proceeded to remove a friend's Porn Star Martini from the table. At the time, my friends were visiting the ladies room, and I was simply an innocent woman sat alone. I felt isolated and intimidated by his aggressive and unreasonable behaviour. When questioned as to why a 'stranger' (Jo Akka - Manager) was trying to steal my friend's cocktail, I was told that it had a 'tea spoon' in it. My calm response involved explaining that this cocktail and the previous four that my friend had bought, had all been served with a spoon. His reply was 'I'm taking your drink'. I said 'I'm afraid not'...'it's my friend's'. Within seconds, I was approached by a small 'bald bouncer' who escorted me - without explanation - off the premises. I explained that I was with three friends who would all be concerned as to what had happened to me. I remained cool, calm and collected as I left as the bouncer threatened to physically remove me - 'drag me out' - if I did not move there and then. About ten minutes later, my friends who had not been informed of my whereabouts exited the club to look for me. We proceeded to attempt to discuss the reasons as to why exactly I had been asked to leave. And of course, during this time, there was no sign of Akka. The bouncers had no rational explanation (hmmm, surprising!) as to why I was asked to leave..and as we were very aware of Akka's violent behaviour towards women, we thought it best to leave. We left over £50 worth of drinks on the table - I only hope that Akka got his spoon in the end!!.... It is obvious that Jo Akka suffers from short man syndrome; I suggest in future he picks on someone his own size! Oh yeah, he did with me being a towering 5ft 3” tall!”
I'm more than happy to stick a tenner on Utd, just as the ad suggests, as long as if they do win we get to see Gordo running down Deansgate with Utd shirt pulled over his head, a la Ryan Giggs after scoring a goal....
I don't wish to appear unsympathetic but anyone who chooses to go to Panacea should expect to be treated like ****. It's what they do. And why would anyone want to give money to a man who tried to kill one of his own customers? How does the guy still have a licence?
Thanks for a great night at the theatre Man Con! We won a pair of the tickets for the gala performance of 'A Glass Menagerie' on Saturday night. We even got dressed up in our glad rags and had a wonderful time, the Royal Exchange being as fab as ever.On a more sombre note, does anyone know what's going on with Gastros? I've just got used to having this place here for brunch and foodie gifts, plus a quiet glass of wine on the rare nights I don't fancy TriBeCa. Now there's a funny notice on the door and it was all shut up last night.Can anyone shed any light?
I just finally got around to watching the Sex and the City movie trailer and weed my pants in excitement.
£21 for 3 courses and unlimited wine at vermillion?? My I'm SURE that was what Harvey Nicks do???
IT'S ELECTION DAY!!! Make sure you get out and vote - People died for you to have the right, don't waste it because you can't be bothered! If you're lucky enough to live in Manchester City Centre - VOTE ANTHONY McCAUL!!!
Sorry Kev, while I agree with your sentiments on exercising the right to vote, I am never in a million years going to vote for Mr McCaul, as the local representative of our lying prime minister.
Local elections are, oddly enough, about LOCAL issues. Manchester is a fantastic city thanks to our fantastic Labour Council, who continue to buck the national trend year on year and gain votes despite national opinion polls. That's because most people in Manchester have enough intelligence to separate out what's going on nationally from the great things happening locally.
Nope - an idealistic sentiment but sadly misguided - local elections are the only chance the people of this country get to pass judgment on the government at Westminster. And in my own view our Labour Council is a lot less than fantastic, but I won't bore you with that.
i wonder if anyone could sell me a ticket for next week eufa cup final cheers allan workman (glasgow p`s no touts thank -you
First things first....what a great day for both the supporters and the city of Manchester. That said in the current environmental climate......i am curious to know what Manchester City Council are doing with the rubbish they are collecting? On a recent recycle now advert, it states that by recycling one glass bottle will save enough power to watch a tv for 20 minutes......we could watch a lot of television if Manchester City Council collected and recycled the waste generated by the thirsty supporters!!This would also go along way to help Manchester to secure the title of Britains greenest city. Just a thought!!
Not denying city centre dweller exactly... I've met some lovely fans in the past 24 hours...but at the moment I'm locked in a bar with rumours about riots at pic. Anyone know what's going on?
Just been for lunch at the opus restaurant at the radisson and considering they sell pizzas for £16.50, yes thats £16.50 you would think it would be a bit special wouldnt you! well it wasnt, in fact it was awful. Sandwiches were soggy, chips greasy and then menu range very poor. Dont bother when there are so many fab restaurants and cafe bars in manchester.
Just read your recipe for Spag boll. This would not taste nice. Bolognese or any tomato based sauces should be cooked for an hour or two, after which they will taste fantastic. 15 mins is a bollocksnese sauce
The bridgewater hotel in Worsley. The worst place to eat or drink in Manchester (must be?) Burnt, tasteless food and slow service. We were a party of 10 and the only ones in the place and still no drinks orders were taken and i think the serving staff were also doing the cooking. Lovely ladies but no idea. When i complained about the burger they had served up, they knocked off £1.30 from the whole bill. Wehey. Then told me that the chef had walked out and they were struggling a little, ALITTLE!. Wanted to warn people, don't make the same mistake as we did. Even complaining to the company direct, didn't get us a reply. Nice?
Hey Jonathan, what happened to the second half of the interview with the muppet in charge of the metro?
Ive just heard the new release by manchester band Air Cav , how good are they ? Better that some i could mention ,liam .
Having had a great night out, i'm now home eating crispy chicken. rock the **** on mancunia!
Loyal employee of the Manchester Museum says..“ This is just the tip of a larger Ice burg, in recent months a number of our displays have been removed. Human skeletons and any thing which depicts evolution have simply disappeared from our mammal’s gallery. The public comments are in sharp contrast to those stated by the Museum management. Loyal employee of the Manchester museum.”
Jonathan, whatever happened to part 2 of the metro interview? And who won the £50 for the "best bar in Manchester" competition? I'd hate to think you were going back on your word....
Any chance of confidential doing a piece on the MMA or Mixed Martial Arts scene in manchester as no onw else seems too. Predators Gym in manchester crowned 2 world champions at the weekend and it would be nice to see them get some recognition. There site is http://www.manchester-mma.com Thanks
Ithaca,Ithaca,Ithaca!what a nightmare...,Following an evening that left me £150 lighter on confidentials advice I paid a visit to 36 john dalton street to find the waitress apologising for the multitude of chefs and kitchen assistants all walking out for a calm down following a "queen" style chef bust up within minutes of ordering.Apparently these guys are working from 7am in the morning until 11pm at night and, in good restauranteur style, the management are refusing to close on a monday rendering the team to work those hours seven days a week.Well it has just opened.And where was the superstar head chef on a Thursday night? I only went to be fed by him???As the evening wore on it became clear that fitting a loud table of 12 full of rude oiks in that tiny first floor restaurant was a bad idea for the new 6ft5 French Roger Ramjet Lookalike Manager with his square jaw and sucked in cheeks it was amusing to see the whole kitchen collapse with confusion and frustration at the rowdy table and lack of food orders being completed.The food its'self was above average with the Black cod well recommended.The seared scallops topped with caviar and a zesty dressing overpowered the three side by side beautifully cooked pieces .I also tried the gaspaco wagyu beef which came as four of the thinnest slices that melted in the mouth these were beautiful even if i did feel i was swallowing a fiver at a time(thinner than a fiver they should have melted too!.A seaweed salad dressed in sesame oil and sesame nuts was an interesting texture too.All washed down with an white oaky Rioja which had me staggering out of the restaurant an hour later and represented excellent value for money at just £22 per bottle All in all i felt raped, but had to admit the food is almost there but the management need to be less nervous about boystrous wanabe's and make a decision about the hours otherwise I wouldnt go again.make sure the executive chef is working that night... Food 8/10waitress made our night 10/10,Atmosphere 4/10.a huge crowd which were continuously being plied with daft cocktails and sambucas that got spilt on a client and smashed on the floor because there are more staff than seating space begun the evening on the wrong foot for me.the food (when it came) idnt come at the same time reminded me of a family meal at frankie and bennies where i was waiting for a free portion of the scallops as a gesture of good will but got nothing but sorry's
no i didnt do a spell check or a grammar check!!!! I'm busy me !
If you weren't there last night, go and buy a ticket for Leonard Cohen before heleaves on Friday. The run's sold out but the touts will sort you out - pay them, whatever they ask it's worth it. This is a once in a lifetime chance to see the greatest singer/songwriter of the age. Last night's performance was awesome.
Second half of the metrolink security interview? A result for the "Manchester's best bar" competition - you owe someone £50. Restaurant reviews have pretty much dried up... Are you all on holiday or has ManCon run out of money....?
If you ever use on-road parking in Manchester, be wary when you're getting a ticket! I left my car, walked up to a pay machine, which was all of 15-20 meters away, started to put my money in, turned around and saw two traffic wardens starting to issue my car a parking ticket! I complained about this, and was told that apparently "they don't have time to make sure someone's currently getting a ticket". My car was one of only two on the road, and apart from a couple of passerby's (who actually got my attention and pointed me over to the traffic wardens) the street was empty. Maybe it had something to do with it being 5:50pm and their supposedly non-existant quotas?
Remember all the high hopes for the regeneration of Castlefield-the derelict areas to be grassed for the visitors to have picnics on;repair the wooden bridge:make the steel bridges non slip:get in touch with the Owner of G Plot......
Dear Anonymous, the hig hpes are still there. The high hopes will turn into real results. But these things take time...sadly. Yet behind the scenes things are happening so let's not despair.We'll do a follow-up later this year.
Just when you think Man Con might be the alternative, witty sharp new media baby that crap about San Carlo goes up. Shame on you fellas...too obvious, too bleeding obvious. And of course we can't comment on that story.
whats up with the San Carlo Story? About time someone is making money if you read the newspapaers all you want to do is hang yourself
Birdcage - completely let down by it's neanderthal door staff!!!Myself and about twenty others planned a trip to the Birdcage, Manchester for my friend's hen night. Oh what a mistake!! We had each paid £15 deposit to secure our table and had been looking forward to it for some time. Upon arrival at the door the 'bouncers' were extremely rude and aggressive in their nature and accused us of bringing more people then had paid deposits and stated that two of us would have to pay again. We had in fact brought the correct number of people & in my opinion they were just trying to pull a fast one. They eventually backed off and in the end decided we could go in. As my friend was on her way in I tried to take a picture of her (as I had been doing all night to document her hen night). As I lifted my camera a male 'bouncer' stormed over and ripped the camera out of my hand stating he did not like having his picture taken. (PLEASE DON'T FLATTER YOURSELF, LOVE!)He was extremely threatening and aggressive in his manner and I was pretty shocked to say the least. He finally gave me my camera back but as you can imagine I was non too impressed to have my personal property ripped off me for no reason and made this clear to him. Following this, they decided "they did not like my attitude" and refused to let me in. Quite what attitude you're supposed to have after being threatened and intimidated by such utter thugs I have no idea. My friend and I came away minus our £15 deposits and headed over to the Northern Quarter instead where the people were far more civilised and pleasant! A full letter of complaint has gone in although I do not expect a response. After talking to other people I have heard many a horror story about The Birdcage and it's wonderful door staff - my experience it seems is not a one off incident. The Birdcage should be thoroughly ashamed of these members of staff who are giving it's club a very bad name. Avoid at all costs - you have been warned!!!
Why have you suddenly started posting adverts dressed up as stories? What's the "news" angle in the latest one about Davis Blank Furniss? Aren't adverts meant to be labelled as such?
McFly are coming so i booked tickets, would be nice to have a hotel as well, save having to drive 2 hours after concert, checked out 5 top hotels, all with same answer nothing doing we are full or don't do mum and kids, is this what Manchester is all about now,
I agree with johnthebrief about the advertorials masquerading as news stories on ManCon. It doesn't do your credibility any favours.
Does anyone actually read this bit? Anyway, I've realised that whenever I post comments on here it's usually to criticise or moan about something that's been written on here. But I only do it because I like ManCon and care about it. It's become my number one source of local news and its campaigning and passion for Manchester puts the MEN to shame. Just wanted to get that off my chest!
Mat, we always read the comments and from Friday we're going to have a Rant of the Week article to show we do. And thanks for that.
Agree with Mat. We only shout at you because we care, Jonathan. Much as we may bitch and moan, ManCon is a bloody good source of news, comment and entertainment. And on the subject, whatever happened to the rest of the metrolink interview we were promised?
The last time I wrote on this rant was regarding Milan in Worsley. Went to Ambiante tapas restaurant in Worsley last night, here are my comments:The food was nice – but a distinct lack of taste to the tapas we had to start – it needed salt (I don’t think you should ever have to add seasoning to restaurant food), we shared a meat paella for main – it was nice but over salted! And they ‘forgot’ to put the chorizo in (a key ingredient to meat paella one would think!) – we told them and they brought a bowl of chorizo out – but we’d virtually finished by this point and were too full to eat it.We sat outside which is absolutely gorgeous – felt like being in Spain – until a couple came and sat at the next table and started smoking – even though its outside I would expect smoking to be banned as it’s a restaurant and other people will be eating, and it wasn’t – disgusting! Luckily we’d finished eating and went inside to finish our wine.We brought up the missing chorizo when the bill came – and they were really put out! Not apologetic. Then they took off a whole £1.50 from the £16 paella to compensate! – very disappointed!
I'm currently loving http://www.waiterrant.net. Just thought I'd share with the group.
If anyone's thinking of having Sunday lunch at the Woodstock in Didsbury, then heed my words and AVOID AT ALL COSTS. I have had many mediocre Sunday lunches over the years, but today's takes the Rank Roast Biscuit. This pub could be so much better, but invariably the lack of staff necessitates an unseemly and stressful queue, only to be eventually served by sour-faced, disgruntled staff, who clearly wish to be someplace else. Why employ two bar staff when thirty people are constantly waiting to be served? My order of standard roast beef lunch was the most appalling plate of tepid food I have been presented with in a long while. A general mess of bland beef (very little of it), on a soggy Yorkshire, next to two pathetic 'roast potatoes' (aren't roasties supposed to be crisp?...these were like leftovers from a dinner party two days ago), and a mass of barely-warm leeks, in an insipid gravy. In short, utterly joyless food served by clearly disgruntled staff in an understaffed pub that clearly doesn't give a to*s about its food!
After your article in the April manchester confidential i went along to the new Boutique in Stockport. what a find. Everyone was really friendly and I picked up a great couple of outfits and am now having a dress made by Sue. Cheers Manchester Confidential.
Oops! forgot to put the name of boutique. MODISTE on Lower Hillgate
Sleb spotting-Neil Morrisey enjoying a pint or several with his 'Dylan' co stars in the Marble on Rochdale rd. Bloody loud fella!
After reading an MC write up on the king william in wilmslow and being bored of the usual fir coat no knickers food haunts, we decided to give it a try early on sat evening. I thought it only right that I let you know the lack of atmosphere and poor service was accompanied by terrible luke warm, over cooked tasteless food.
Is anyone in town at the minute, i hear a man has been knocked over by a bus outside Marks and Spencers food!!
Went to MC abode yesterday afternoon with the confidential 'exclusive' offer of a sharing platter and a bottle of wine for a reasonable £19.95. Excellent food, good service (even going as far to explain the three different types of bread accompanying the platter). All round an entirely civilised way to spend an hour and a half before going to the theatre. There was only one problem: The listed price on the menu for a platter and a bottle of wine is £19:95, the little crumpled token I diligently printed out and handed out to the bar staff said as much. WTF?! If something costs something why do I need a token to buy purchase it at the price it already is?! As a result I look like the coupon kid as I bashfully linger infront of the polished bar like I'm being done some massive service and I should be oh so greatful. What next? an exclusive offer at the pound store everything for a pound with this print out! Penny sweets for a penny but only if you find a printer first?
If anyone wants a break from the bar scene in Manchester, may I recommend a tour of the Robinson's Brewery in Stockport. We recently went last month and for the princeley sum of £11, we were treated to a full tour of the 300 year old brewery. The highlight of the evening however was the hour and a half or so in the Unicorn Room where it was a free bar so everyone could sample the full range of Robinson's beers complimented by a traditional finger buffet. Gordo, sounds that may interest you if you fancy venturing out of our great metropolis??Anyway, if anyone wants more information, please follow this link http://www.frederic-robinson.com
Just wanted to make everyone aware that if they go to Pau Brasil for lunch on Fridays they will be charged £22.50 from now on. We went for lunch today and only found out at the end of the meal that the lunchtime price of £12.50 is now only valid Monday - Thursday. I did point out that their website had not been updated to state this fact and that we were not informed of this when we made the booking over a week ago. Although the food was very nice (if a little too salty) I really think £22.50 for lunch is overpriced and if we had known this in advance we would have probably gone somewhere else and gone back to Pau Brasil on a different day. We did complain and they knocked off 20% from the bill but it still put a bit of a downer on the experience.
hi am vikas,from india,looking for ajob in airlines,or in hospitality,but ilove to work with airlines
has anyone seen 'gordoworld.com'. maybe this is an old one, but if u know gordo it is quite funny really
does anyone know the details of one of those cab firms that come out on a scooter and drive your car home for you?
scooterman.co.uk, oddly enuff!!!
Went to Red & Hot for dinner last night… really impressed, the food, interior and service were all excellent. Value for money was brilliant and portion sizes very generous, will definitely be going again to try some of the more interesting dishes that I could see people enjoying!!
Is panacea in Alderley edge any good?
I was there last night, the champagne wasn't, if they have spent all that money they should have at least made sure that the punters get the real stuff and plenty of it. poor.
Took up the MC offer at Walrus last nite with a mate. Was well impressed & stayed longer than expected. Bar Staff were friendly & attentive, food service was good. Really enjoyed the food, the Squid starter was perfect melt in the mouth stuff, the mini thai fishcakes were tasty. We had the Yellow Curry chicken & Pork & Holy Basil Main, both dishes were excellent with just the right amouny of spice and the slightly sticky rice (made it easier to pick up with chopsticks) was perfect. Great music and atmosphere, will deffo be going back...
My Scouse bird told me to do it.
Hey has anyone come across www.nxtbook.com/…/0…
Went along to Walrus after the Young Designer Awards at the Triangle (on thursday evening.(we have got great talentand style here in the North) We had printed off the discount voucher and got ther just befor 8.0p.m. deadline. It was a great deal and the food was brilliant, staff were pleasant as well. Thanks
is it true that mr manchester him self has left the chop house. just heard from the grapvine. well hope this is not the begining of the end, hope to see you soon mr pilling we all injoyed your service, the place will not be the same with out you.
FFS- another post about Steve Pilling - can ManCon just run a headline story about Sam's / Tom's to keep all the bloody posts in one place
ManCon already have laid this to rest at www.manchesterconfidential.com/index.asp… It's also been said on here that he runs Destino round the corner in Pall Mall.
hey Modiste you are so right, not big portions but spot on qaulity.
The offer at MC Cafe is rubbish!!! I thought that 32 quid was a bargain for 3 courses each plus wine but that was before I saw the size of the portions! the main course dish of salmon was the size of a starter and had no stodge at all with it - just salmon and sauce - and the sticky toffee pudding was seriously only 2 inches squared. We got a pizza and donner meat on the way home - I kid you not!crap atmosphere too - playing club tunes in a hotel restuarant does not seem right. We received our starters before our drinks and the toliets were a disgrace! I seriously walked into the middle cubicle to find poo all over the toilet bowl, seat and even wall. It was like a scene from train spotting. They cant have eaten there though because there was far too much poo...
Just to let the good folks of Manchester know and all the old customers of the last 22 years "HARPERS" re-opened last night 23/09/08. Good tapas and menu overseen by the great Eugenio (spelling?). I went on the off chance it was there first night and great
Viva la differrence.!! long live the independant, Good luck to Harpers and make sure the staff get all the tips!
Well, kudos for Walrus again...returned after 1st visit with more mates. Once again the food was superb & exceptional service from Dangermouse himself. Had to have the Squid again but this time had the Katsudon pork which was delish..also highly recommend the massman too. Thanks to Walrus for not disappointing with new peeps in tow...
no wonder his other overhyped sh*thole burnt down
Manchester confidential fashion visited a boutique called Modiste in Stockport Underbanks the other month and did a article on the new boutique. I popped in this week. What a find, their own great designs plus collections by other independents. It was so interesting to talk with Sue the designer. I mentioned Manchester Confidential and was given 10% discount. Thanks M/C.
City centre Manchester now is WORSE in the day than it is at nite. Drunks and gangs and homeless all doin the zombie like tour of the streets..its horrible..Piccadilly is the worst when it should be the best bit? Sorry sorry place these days.
HARPERS - Has Felix finally gone to put up his feet ? Ive not been for a couple of years but love the place, and all the staff make it a great place to eat drink and enjoy bein merry :)
I have been looking on the web sire for some time now for a write up on Chesters Hotel & Restaurant. if you want a really excellent steak then you have to go there. They do other dishes but the main attraction are their Steaks. It is a Hotel, butyou do not have to be resident to dine there. The restaurant holds about 80 so has a warm friendly atmosphere. Not the cheapest but certainly the best Steak around. This is situated on Chester Road near man United ground.
Just warning people not to eat at the Mitre Hotel cafe on Exchange Square, waited over 45 minutes yesterday for the worst sandwich ever!
visited the Hilton on Deansgate at the weekend - pre booked months ago. cloud 23 was absolutely brilliant service 100% staff lovely - attentive but not imposing. Went downstairs to podium restaurant and it was the worst eve I have had the misfortune to sit through! we were there almost 1.5hrs and only managed to be served starters and a bottle of wine we had to ask for more than once. The mgr on that eve blanked us when we went to front of house to advise of our arrival as he had a more "prestigious" guest to look after who was standing BEHIND us. Staff didn't even know what dishes were on/off that eve and when we finally placed our order he had to come back out to ask how we wanted steak cooking AGAIN! Then when we finshed starters we were looking at our plates for about 15mins (had to ask in end for them to be removd) then I think there was a mix up in kicthcen as about 30 mins plus passed we still had no main (now at bottom of wine bottle) aked waiter to chase it up - ssured us we were next table to be served - alas food went in other directions from the kitchen. We asked again and a supervisor went to check on our order but did not feedback any info to us - with which we got up to leave; whereby a manager finally appeared to ask to sit down and the'd make our night special!!! Why should you have to complain in order to get a service/product you expect when you pay a certain amount - I'd understand crap service from a fast food place as they are knocking out a high volume of food at a basic price etc not £25 per plate!So to sum up - DO NOT GO!!!annoyingly when i have spoken to friends and coleagues since they have all said the same just a shame nobody else has ranted over it and I could have saved the heartache and a very special oocasion ruined!
Does Confidential know that there's a recession? I say that because I've just received an invitation to subscribe to their supa doopa new dining card which gives me 25% off the food part of the bill at 25 hand picked restaurants. There's a 3 month introductory offer but the ongoing rate is £20 per month, which means that to break even on the deal I would have to spend a whopping £960 per year just on food at this restricted list of eateries. And it seems that the card can't normally be used on Friday night or anytime on Saturday. Forgive me if I'm being thick but that doesn't seem like a great deal to me, Gordo!
Just noticed that if you commit to a full year you get the card at £10, so you'd only need to spend £480 a year on food at the 25 eateries. But not being able to use the card on Friday night or Saturdays would still give me an issue. Throw in a discount on the booze and it might be worth thinking about!
I spend that a month. will save me £100 a month. no brianer.
Mancman, it is very experimental. You can't buy twelve months yet, lets stick to the thre months but you will be guaranteed the deal ongoing at either £12.50 a month or £10 if you then sign up for twelve. You will be able to get 10% off rental properties from three of Manc's top people, saving at least £65 a month, and 20% off monthly hair stuff from some great places which will save my girlfriend £30 every six weeks or so. Don't look a gift horse in the mouth. Also, when you tell them all that you are a Mancon Privilege holder, you are going to be well looked after, they will all be terrified of you guys ranting about **** food and service. Finally, the team here have grafted their bollocks off for everyone for four years, with everything wrung out of advertisers. Don't you think it's time to support Manchester's only Media owned by Mancunians and for Mancunians, without £695 million of the Scott Trusts money to piss up the wall?
....no brianer. Love it!
Be fair Gordo, GMG performs a useful service. Who else would employ Mark Dodson (never mind pay him 250+k a year)? Mind, as he's one of only three employees left, he does have to write a lot of the bollox they put out. But who will they get to fill that 100,000 sq ft of empty office space at 2 Hardman STreet? The new ManCon offices perhaps? Thats what you get when you make all your staff redundant. Space, glorious space.
Is that Panacea featured in the Bold 2in1 White Diamond and Lotus Flower advert on the telly?
yeah chickadee it is!!
Brings a bold fresh smelling perspective to washing your dirty laundry in public!
can someone please review San Rocco and see if the staff are just as rude as they were to me....? many thanks
if you came across to them as opinionated as you do on here then i am not surprised that they were rude to you.xx
lol
mind you, now I come to think of it maybe it was when I said "please can I have extra balsamic with my bruschetta and please can you make my risotto quite al dente and please can you turn the music down, and close that window over there" that they got the hump...who knows
http://www.waiterrant.netGenius (I must admit I got the link from here but enjoyed it so much I thought I'd pass it on!)
caroline from whalley range - your comment is class. "A no Brianer?" - which brian are you referring to?
A few thoughts from the above: 1) "Just bought it" must be as fat as a pig! 2) Gordo's girlfriend must have the most stunning hair in Manchester 3)I'm sure that the 3 Manc top people renting out there properties will do me a deal these days without me flashing a Mancon card 4)Another card on the market, at lower cost, gives me a much wider range of restaurants with great discounts. 5)I enjoy my free MEN so don't knock it! 6)If nobody's ever going to have to pay the £20 pm advertised price of the card, this smacks of the never ending sale to lure in the punters.Sorry, still not convinced!
Emma Grace, i am with you! - The San Rocco in Hale is horrendous. We got treated like second class citizens even though we were nothing but smiles! When a pasta starter arrives 5 minutes after ordering but the bill takes 30 minutes it's pretty shoddy.
Sounds like you aren't the right target market MancMan, i have just had 36 quids worth of completely free food at Ithaca on the Privelege Card. Good it was as well. Thats paid for all but 3 quid's worth of my three month membership.
That'll be ex girlfriend now, to you MancMan! Any girls out their with cheap hardo habits and like eating a lot?
So you've just spent £180 on food alone to get your £36 knocked off, Just bought it? Glad you enjoyed it! By the way,Gordo, does the card mean that all of those great offers you used to send us are now things of the past?
I'd volunteer myself to be Gordo's flopsy,but I have no idea what a "hardo habit" is.Maybe I'm too sheltered....
MancMan, you don't get it. There are lots of other stuff other than the discount. I was, along with 500 other people, given two free lunches at Ithaca. yes, the lunch menu free. All I paid for was the booze. So, not 25% off, free food. There were a few other tables in there from Manconfidential as well. Lunch menu, £17 for food, times two, equals me saving £34. Cost of card for quarter, £37-odd, so far I am out of paocket 3 quid. and I have two meals a week for sixteen weeks to go. By the way, I did enjoy it! Frankly, I don't begrudge giving my custom to manCon, its a good local bunch of people. I have had bags of stuff off them in the past for nowt so they get my vote.
Mancman, yes, we will be doing more of the same, getting stronger all the time. The Privelege Card is designed to build revenue streams, re-invest in more writers and account managers, etc etc. don't be so bloody cynical.
This has probably nothing to do with any of the other rants going on this evening....but I had a really REALLY bad experience at East z East on Blackfriars last Saturday....the service was appalling and the food wasn't that great either!!! Akbars is by far the best curry house in the city centre! I was begged by the manager to try it again...but it is not worth the hassle!!!!
What's going on at the former Cocoa Rooms? Looks like it is re-opening. Anyone know?
Just having aa look at you offers.There's a good 'un from the belleview dogs offering a meal and entrance for a mere 1p. Excellent value. However, in the advert it states ..'hear the pounding of the paws as the sleek and elegant greyhounds live up to their reputation as the second fastest animal in the world,'Surely this can't be right. A greyhound? second only to, one presumes, a cheetah? Even assuming we are talking of land mammals (I'm near certain some birds could out move a dog)is not a horse nor none of the other big cats (a leopard?) faster?Am I a pedant or just plain wrong?Confused Withington.
Classic stuff! Gordo says I'm being cynical because I question the value for money of one of his products. He tells me "the Privelege Card is designed to build revenue streams, re-invest in more writers and account managers, etc etc. don't be so bloody cynical.” well sorry Gordo if I don't rush out with my chequebook every time you come up with another idea to generate revenue. There's plenty of much more deserving charities out there
Mr Yeah, meant to say, have you got a girlfriend?
Mancman, when was the last time you were asked by Manconfi for money? I can't remeber once in four years. Are you the Editor of the MEN, you tight little sh1towse? Got an invite to eat with Michael Caines the 2 * Michelin chef in a weeks time one day after my membership with free food, how good is that? If you are impressed with a free MEN you should **** off back there. Long Liver Manconfi...
I thoroughly agree with The Times. The Indian Ocean is a wicked place which I first visited when I was in my teens. Their seafood dishes are also very good.
I admit it, I love Man Con as much as I love Man U. That's why I check the site at half time...
I'm still waiting for Croma to call me back about a party of 12 for a Christmas meal. Yes they might be full and yes we're late to book, but "I'll check now and call you back in 5-10 minutes" is becoming "we can't be bothered to call you, we don't need your business". I probably won't bother booking there again just for the sake of a 30 second phone call, they clearly don't need my business.
I see that Phil Specter is as rude as his namesake. I won't sink to his level of abuse but he may wish to know that there's a job going on Radio 2 which will be much suited to his style. In the meantime, I'll stick to making reasonable comments where I think that they are merited.
What’s going on with the Manchester Confidential privilege card? I paid for mine almost 2 weeks ago & was told that it would arrive by the end of the week. It did not so a week after I coughed up I tried to call the confidential offices but was unable to get through so then I sent an email asking it where mine was. STILL nothing. I am exceptionally disappointed by this abysmal service. Today is November 1st, which is the start of my paid subscription time, & yet I am unable to start utilising my card.Following the Ithaca free meal debacle I had hoped the privilege card itself would run considerably more smoothly……. How wrong I was. Be warned people, you’re going to end up paying for something you can’t actually use. I WANT MY MONEY BACK!
Manchester Confidential Privilege Etc Etc, eay tiger, the cards were delayed. we will have temporary ones delivered Monday. I do not understand why you couldn't get through to the office. Call 0161 228 0044 normal working hours. Email me at markg@planetconfidential.co.uk otherwise; in the meanting we will book any card holder in any estblishment they require. I will ensure your card is recredited on Monday.
Nice to see such a humble apology!
ooh, MancMan, i see you haven't found that life yet...
Whats trhe best Chines in the city? I am coming in two weeks...
After a review on here i went to red n hot, faulkner street. just awesome. sechuan style with very interesting use of offal
dear readers the reason some of the privilege cards havent arrived is because im your postman and cant be arsed doing my job ive got sack fulls of post stashed under my bed thinking of having a real fire fitted here at home because it wont cost be anything for fuel.sorry mark but you just cant get the staff these days.
My comments is that I am unable to find a control product because I do not have the calssic size. I have a midriff/ tummy problem but am size 14/16 bust and 10/12 hip. Please can you advize of a product that would help JM
What's happened to Love Saves the Day on Thomas St?
Love Saves the Day went in to liquidation.
Simply Yours does seperate bits of control wear for top and bottom halves so you can mix and match.
NEWSFLASH.reports are coming in today that a russian submarine believed to a typhoon class was spotted this morning in hollingworth lake near littleborough.police began receiving calls from members of the public at around 7am.local fisherman wayne kerr said "i saw this sub suddenly surface right in front of me.after a moment the hatch on the connig tower opened and a head popped out.when he saw me he ducked back inside and then the sub went down again".royal navy vessels have been sent to the area to comb for the rogoue sub ,but say it may have headed down the rochdale canal into open water.angry residents are demanding action after last years incident when an iranian gunboat arrived in hebden bridge and the crew did a runner leaving navy and goverment officals with egg on thier faces.
i saw the iranian crew run past the station there were to fast to catch up to and got away
This is nothing to do with a gig I've been too, its in regards to the privilege card and there is nowhere to make comments about it on the website... is it not cheaper to get a hi-life card as it costs around £90 for the year for the platinum card which you can pay in monthly instalments and there are more restaurants included and you get 50% off your food bill...
This is nothing to do with a gig I've been too, its in regards to the privilege card and there is nowhere to make comments about it on the website... is it not cheaper to get a hi-life card as it costs around £90 for the year for the platinum card which you can pay in monthly instalments and there are more restaurants included and you get 50%; off your food bill...
Hi does anyone know the opening times for the new North Pole bar which is being set up near the Urbis, it doesn't say anywhere on their website and I was wondering how late it was open til in the evening, ta!
The bar is open from midday till 11pm. It looks to be a good place to visit as the cocktails are done by ex socio staff and the food is done by Robert Owen Brown.
BELUGA BAR: Burritos = BAD! Tried them with some mates last week; first of all they were not burritos - they looked more like cheap chicken fajitas with barely any filling! Plus, when we implied we weren't happy with the food to the waiter, what we got was an arrogant remark!
donate and download music at http://www.socialkaos.co.ukto help prolong life for saint annes hospice and the new childrens appea.supported by Ricky hatton,Wes brown,Clint boon and Sir Gerald kaufman.
Why is the halloween bash at circle the only entry on man con that is not available to read and rant?
No GJH that was an oversight. There will be a rant facility appearing in five, four, three, two, one.......now.
fair play editorial...and another thing. Ithaca. I really really want to like you. I ate there & your marinaded cod was gods own. The best sushi I have had...I even feel sorry for you when I realise you opened on the brink of a recession.But still - your emails are written by gushing two year olds on acid, stop all this love and peace rubbish....and most of all - your latest one - 'celebrity favoured' PLEASE...do you want to be the Sugar Lounge or a propery eatery - you can not be both. People who will buy your food will not give a monkeys if that bird from corrie was in. over and out.
What's up with Manchester Confidential this week? It's all adverts and now a blog about an allotment? Where are all the food and drink reviews? I can't stand Citylife, but this week it seems I have little choice. Shape up!
Hey Sal you a boy or a gir l .Y You sound fun over here from Japan and like going out having goodtime cheeky
Does anybody know whats the deal with the police in the northern quarter every weekend??? They had a metal detector on blue on Saturday night...
I think that says more about Bluu than the Northern Quarter in general...
Ive seen them too, they have been in the NQ for the past 3-4 weekends and i've seen them patrolling round mid week. They had sniffer dogs in every bar about 3 fridays ago, people were being dragged out and searched.
ooh, drama
In that case, I think it's pretty obvious what's going on!! tut tut
Do you think sniffer dogs enjoy bing?
I think they love bing!!!
Has anyone tried to book a table at Matt & Phreds, I have left 3 telephone messages, sent 3 emails and they still cannot confirm is my table is reserved. Is this part of their PR strategy.
I am a little unsure of whether to vote yes or no on the Transpot Innovation Proposals. If I vote yes I would like the transport system to be improved I am also voting for a congestion charge at the end of it. If I vote no to the congestion charge, am I also saying that I do not wish for the transport system to be improved. Is there a standard of improvements that can be measured and agreed before the congestion charge is initiated.
Have the Labour Party deserted the north?11 years of Labour and we have seen- north south divide getting wide- significant public transport investment in london- shelving of public transport investment in Manchester (unless we pay the congestion charge)- Labour pushing for another runway at Heathrow- Tories saying no to this and proposing a high speed rail link to Manchester, Leeds etcRead this article on the FT from the shadow transport secretary;www.ft.com/…/4-a5f1-11dd-9d26-000077b07658.html… are beginning to look very tempting for us northerners
I suggest you send an email to andrea@mattandphreds.com . She's great and will definitely get back to you.
Went to Central Perk on Thursday morning for a sausage barm. The food was great. The peppery little cumberland sausages were served on a fluffy barm which went down a treat. There was a nice ambience in there too whilst I waited, plenty of seating and a comfy battered old leather sofa with Joss Stone flowing from the speakers. An excellent place which sorted out my mid week hangover a treat! ManCon, you need to review it!
Yes Andrea has been my contact for 3 emails and 3 telephone calls, but has confirmed they are busy and will confirm if my reservation last Monday, still no word.
Anyone else getting sick of door to door begging in South Manchester? We're in Whalley Range and its become at least a weekly occurence now.
Richard, I am very interested in doing a piece on this; I am horrified with these women from the Balkans carrying children that look like they are dead, begging. Can you email me and tell me whats happening where you are? Mark@manchesterconfidential.com. Thanks Mark Garner, The Publisher
Re: trouble with booking at Matt and Phred's post. I'm very sorry to hear about the poor service you've received from the club with respect to your enquiry. Please email me at dean@mattandphred.com and I assure you I will contact you as soon as I receive your message. Sincere apologies, Dean Moull.
I went to an absolutely fabulous restaurant last night...Mancon you really have to go. It was called Bazooka by Night on Princess St, opposite the Garratt. It was SO busy, full of Christmas parties (I was on my works do), Greek restaurant. I wasn't sure when I first walked in. I couldn't have been more wrong...the food was fab but the best bit was the service. When the food was gone the waiters got the whole restaurant up, holding hands and dancing round the restaurant in between the tables. One of them was sat playing traditional Greek music on his guitar and singing at the front, and they had dancing competitions for bottles of wine. They had us up dancing on the tables! Honestly, if you've never been, you must must try it...the atmosphere was fabulous.
there's a restaurant in didsbury, next door to M20...anyone got any idea what it's called??
I just thought i would leave some words of wisdom about a restaurant i visited in the last few weeks in Stalybridge. The Roe Cross an old carvery pub in Mottram, well where do i begin we were told the food was good but to be honest the night started in disaster and did not improve, the staff did not have a clue what they were talking about the management were just sat around like slobs expecting to see a full till at the end of the night when it was obvious that they too did not have a clue and when it came to the food well what can i say i wish we had gone to mc donalds we could have had a better meal it was the worst i have eaten maybe they should run a burger van they may get that right after alot of training but i doubt it!!!
SUBJECT: YANG SING RESTAURANT – PRINCESS STREET I think everyone should know – THIS RESTAURANT IS A DISGRACE – for the following reasons: Quality of service 1/10 Attitude of management and staff alike 0.5/10 Value for money 1/10 Food 6/10 We had the misfortune of visiting this restaurant on Tuesday 16th December 2008. We (my elderly mother, auntie, my cousin and I) had booked our table three weeks in advance. Upon arrival we were frowned upon and ushered to the table like cattle, promptly barked at by the restaurant manager “You out of here by 8pm – this table booked for next party, you out by 8pm – YES!” We smiled politely and said we would be and sat down. The ten minutes following this rude interjection to what is allegedly (and I use that word allegedly quite literally) the best Chinese restaurant in Manchester, we were asked NINE times if we were ready to order. Not only were we asked nine times, but four different waiters and waitresses asked us! We then ordered at around 6:45pm. Our food arrived promptly and we ate it as such, feeling both unwelcome and uncomfortable. We finished our once a year get together /Christmas meal at 7:30pm and asked for the bill, we had finally had enough of what can only be described as one of the most stomach turning events of my entire social calendar. Once we had paid the bill, another manager in a grey suit (and a black eye, it looked like his wife had been beating him round the soup kitchen with the chow mein ladle) came to our table and hastened us to leave as (and I quote) “We have another table due here now, quickly quickly” we were told. Of course by this point they had already received over £100 of our hard earned money, which by the way got us a couple of starters, a few main courses and a bottle of wine that tasted like Jesus’ sandals rather than Jesus juice. And the best bit?! When we complained to the grey suited, black eyed man, he told us “Our other customers get preferential treatment because they book in advance, you booked last minute” WHAT??!! Three weeks in advance? How soon do we have to book to get preferential treatment? Three years?! I think everyone should know how appalling the YANG SING ON PRINCESS STREET is and I would implore you all to avoid it at all costs. Manchester has a huge variety of Chinese restaurants – eat here at your peril! Or if you do, say hello to the rats I noticed scurrying around the side of the restaurant eating the bits of food the kitchen hands had dropped out of the bin bags. ”
Sorry to hear that Jamie however it is a well known fact that the Yang Sing has lost its original badge of honour some time ago...many locals I know avoid the place. I am pretty sure that in time, the message will cross the borders and "they will get theirs".Hindsight is a wonderful thing, but I would have ordered more food and wine before asking one member of my after the meal to lead my family up the stairs and to the car. At that point I would have stood at the till and opened my wallet offering my business card and telling them to send me an invoice…there isn’t a bloody thing they can do legally. I don’t get angry in restaurants, I vote with my feet. Having done this before and true to form, the police couldn’t careless anyhow, let alone GM police.Sorry to hear that ...
For anybody who might possibly be interested I can confirm that Matt and Phred's is for sale! Hopefully, somebody will pick up this [potentially] fantastic venue and make it the great venue that it should be. Please, somebody???
Manchester (sh)ity Council have done the good people of Manchester proud, once again. We are all invited to join the city center festivities this evening with an estimated 80,000 souls in attendance. Great..........While everyone enjoys the disply etc.. at midnight the buses and trams will be running their last trips out of town at 12.30am leaving everyone at the mercy of the overproced black cabs who are charging us the outragous rates that the Council have set. Happy Christmas Manchester Council you have done us proud one more time.....
We had our Christmas party at Tiger Tiger. What a disgrace. We were charged nearly £30 for a buffet and VIP seating. The buffet was awful and would have caused a riot if it had tipped up at Strangeways Prison. As for the VIP seating we were offered 2 grubby couches for 10 of us in a room that reaked of urine and sweat and that was at the start of the evening. The music was nothing short of amateurish, I think the DJ was deaf. On the whole a crap night apart from the good company.
Great gig coming up...Legendary Neville Staple from The Specials, supported by Manchester band The Ambush, Moho Live, Fri 16th Jan.www.nevillestaple.co.ukwww.myspace.com/anambush…
Can I ask a question please? I need to book a plane ticket to Germany in March and as I never fly anywhere, I have no idea where to start looking. Too many websites!! Can anyone recommend a good website/company??
http://uk.travelzoo.com/ try this miss grace
http://www.onewayticketasfarawayaspossible.com is just for you EG :o))
Oh yeah. ah well. happy hunting.
Ms G have you tries travel supermarket?
No...but I will. Thanks!
Went to Ithaca last night to take advantage of the Asahi beer offer. it doesn't exist. Neither the waitress or her manager knew anything about it. Very disappointed. First visit and was not impressed with the place either. Only 1 toilet (shared male/female) for the bar area, dodgy toilet seat, wonky tap and broken door lock. Thought this place was supposed to be posh.It ain't.
Have been waiting for weeks for the winter deal card which gets you 50% off your food bill at Room. I have tried to get this card 5 times now. I have eaten there a few times and its a great place so when I saw this offer I thought WOW! Very disappointed when I have heard that others cannot get the card either!!!
Methinks me n my mate are owed a drink. Went to Ithaca for the Thurs nite beer offer which does not exist!!! The bar manager said that had had conflict with ManCon before putting deals on they had no idea about... Sort this, you're still advertising the damn deal... As an aside for an expensive restaurant, the WC door handle was about to fall off, no lock on the door n the loo seat bout to fall off!! You'd think for the prices they charge things would be better kept.. fur coat no knickers and won't be back !!!
Hey, what happened to Job Confidential? xx
Manchester for University Challenge Champions! C'mon!
ilove1984, the recession is what happened to Jobs! We have 'mothballed' it until later in the year.
Cheers Mark...just when i am looking for a job though!! Grr ;)
And what happened to Yousaf calling regarding a job?
I really like Manchester Confidential but I find it frustrating and confusing that there are no publishing dates on many of the articles and also the rants underneath them so there is often no way of telling how old an article is. Can this be reviewed, it would be very helpful Many Thanks
yes there is, just look at the bottom of the page! That's what I do.
Do we know who has won the Valentines meal at Abode?! x
Was it the same person who won the "cook for us competition"?
Jonathan - I enjoyed you TV appearance last night! Can you tell me how you can get into doing the tour guide course, or how you can get carreres in Manchester tourism? Thanks
Hey ManCon: any chance of some analysis of these new plans for the Library/Town Hall -- in particular the (worrying, I'd say) vision for Library Walk? Would be good to know what your architecturally-informed writers think about it all...
We'll be all over them like a rash next week. Thanks for asking though. Editor.
I see the rant facility has been pulled from that god awful Bredbury Hall advertorial. That was the poorest 'article' I've seen on Confidential for a long, long time. Truly awful.
Do all bank customers feel that the failed banks should not be paying their staff any bonuses this year. I thought performance related bonuses were paid from a percentage of the overall profit, not the overall losses. If all customers decided to change their banks because the did not agree to their bank paying the bonus, do you think the powers that be might change their mind?
Does anyone know of a good Indian takeaway in city centre as not found a good one in the 7 years I've lived here?!!!Fave dishes are Dhansak, Pathia Tandoori Chicken etc. I always find the "creamy" dishes to be a very strange colour and horrible consistency!!! Anyone please help??
The Martket Restaurant.We used to look forward to the market restaurant , every valentines day (my Birthday) we ate great food , attention to detail was great ,atmosphere fab, expensive but worth every penny, now im afraid its a different story, new owners.Im sure anyone who takes over this landmark of a restaraunt must have good intentions to keep the same quality of food service etc, but you do feel miffed if your bill is £120+ and the food has been relegated to almost pizzahut standards, this rant is too long already , but if i can save some poor tourist or anyone some money by writing this then ok.It is not the same restaurant, service attitude, too cool for school--kids who you know eat at greggs regulaly, and are on the rude side, terrible waiting time between ordering a bottle of wine (25mins later im at the bar collecting) etc etc, £130 pounds later, nobody says bye thanks ,,, bugger all.We were sad because for us it was special and its the end of an era.
Would someone please look into matters regarding the Manchester Civic Society??? What has happened here??? There is no information on their website at all...and hasnt been for over 2 years now. Rumour has it that the old committee have been overthrown...or rather forced out by conflict within the society. I have been told it has been taken over by a conservative councillor who has muscled in on the back of this conflict... with a gang of his fellow tory mates. But who is this chap? Where has he sprung from? AND...more importantly what are his motives??? Is he using the society as a political platform??? Or is it simply to promote himself?? Pillar of the society??? I think not! Do long standing civic society members not have a say in all of this??? What about corporate members?? Indeed.....are there even any members left???? If so, who are they and where the hell are they??? (and what about their membership fee's????)Hey..one more thing....what happened to the Forum???? Come on Mr Schofield.....surely if anyone can come up with some answers....it's you! There is something decidedly dodgy going on here..dont ya think????
Gordo! Why no review for Linen after they started - only the decor review in 2006? We went there recently on that recommendation and were impressed with the food too. One of the best risottos I have ever tasted. I asked to speak to the chef who had made it and was really impressed with Oliver Rushton's knowledge and enthusiasm. Good wine list and very good value for money especially with the 10% off for showing your membership card. (Available free in the lobby on arrival) Not compulsory to join but a no brainer!
What's going on down at CIDS - Their offices are 'to let' and The Drum says they are closing, but no news elsewhere - conspicuously nothing in their own Creative Times... any news?
Sooo excited that San Carlos is coming to Dubai, I've been missing it!Let me know if you want a review ManCon.
Just spotted this in a wine newsletter and couldn't help myself to a bit of cut and paste! Gordo! do you read our rants?!2005 El Gordo Victorian DurifWAS £72.00 NOW £60 per dozen!“El Gordo means “the fat one” – add big, dense, thick-set, rough-hewn to ‘fat’ and I’ll drink to that. Durif is a beast in any case, rarely tamed, but these guys have just about managed it – the tannic chunkiness well matched by rich, black plum syrup, herbs, eucalyptus and mint.” Oz Clarke (250 Best Wines Wine Buying Guide 2008)This is certainly one to warm the cockles of your heart during these cold nights! I love Durif, it has the classic richness and grunt that typifies Aussie red, but great balance and a rich finish. Great with steak or with casseroles.
I've seen the new Ithaca offer. Best savings are on Sunday with 50% off your food bill - shame it's not open on a Sunday then
Have i missed something? Has this now become CheshireOaks.com??? Talk about selling your Soul!
Dear ???? that's a cheap trick. We are commercial and we only survive on advertising. These are very tough times and we are as far as we know the only website magazine that pays its freelance writers to bring you content that is unavailable elsewhere. The Cheshire Oaks style ads won't happen all the time but if they help keep us going as an alternative voice then they're a small price to pay. We do have soul but we need to keep the body together as well. Or maybe you'd like to pay a subscription for all the great articles and comps and offers we put up? 50p a week perhaps?
Mr Schofield, i see your point but ?? has a point i feel too. I'll give you 10p a week but i want to win at least 10 competitions a yr.
Steve, what is the point, I'm intrigued? This is a free access site after all.
The girl on the Cheshire Oaks ad is a little hottie and has breasts that seemingly defy gravity as she is obviously trampolining so I don't mind looking at her while the main page is loading.
Tsk Avo
Shut up and get prepping. You need to sort out your mis en place boy!
That Cheshire Oaks ad is irritating. Yes you are a commercial operation out to make money but I think you've gone a tad too far here. Most websites are commercial operations and have ads but not like this. Perhaps less ads and drop a journo as half the comments on the rants seem to be from them, surely not all needed. As for charging us all, whether we pay or not we are the hand that feeds you as you'll know no readers means no advertisers and while we read you because we enjoy it perhaps a little more respect when 'customers' give their views as above wouldn't go amiss.
I don't think it's that bad, not that different from a full page ad in the evening news is it? I just click passed it, does me fine :)