Living Ventures have launched their most challenging and exciting restaurant to date, newly opened Artisan set in a vast 12,000 square foot, semi-industrial space on the first floor of Avenue North in Spinningfields. Think artist’s loft studio meets concrete warehouse – stripped back and raw. Showcasing sculptures, murals, art installations and furniture from the very best artists and craftsmen.
Fire is at the literal heart of the restaurant, with two wood ovens burning throughout the day and night. Artisan offers a modestly priced, rustic menu to pick over or feast on. Flamed meat, fish and unusual pizzas come straight from the fire, everything is prepared in front of you before being thrown into the flames. The team of chefs cook back to basics; with fresh, interesting ingredients cooked using age-old primal techniques, this is casual dining at its best.
This handcrafted sensibility extends to the drinks menu; a collection of innovative cocktails will be served from a unique 20 foot long bar. Sitting alongside a small, but perfectly formed, selection of wines, spirits and beers. The spacious, informal bar hosts a selection of DJ’s playing on in-built decks throughout the week.
Tim Bacon, Living Venture’s Managing Director, describes his driving passion to create something different, something that Manchester has never seen before. He says of Artisan: “It’s the people, the art and the food, you should always leave with a story. Whether a tale from a night spent feasting with friends on the Captain’s Table or a strip of pictures from the photo booth.”
Open all day, every day, serving brunch on weekends as well as lacing the city with music and drink into the night; Artisan is aiming to embrace Manchester’s thriving creative scene and produce real, honest dishes from its open kitchen. The restaurant’s blend of bucolic values and culture will provide a different experience with every visit.
