“We are an independent, family run Irish neighbourhood bar in the heart of West Didsbury. We pride ourselves in providing the best quality food and drink with the service to match. We’re talking some of the best brunch dishes for miles around, silky smooth lattes, loose leaf teas, and small plates. All areas are covered in our small but brilliantly executed menu; served in a cosy rustic environment.” So say the team behind Rustik, which calls the much sought-after and epicurean magnet of Burton Road home. A relaxed, contemporary neighbourhood hangout on one of Manchester’s best-known strips for eating, drinking, and socialising. The focus here is classy comfort food, cocktails and a revolving door of live music talent, transporting a little Emerald Isle vibe to this sophisticated South Manchester district, setting the scene among dark wood panelling and blue cushioned seating, both of which help make this place so comfortable and inviting.
Rustik’s menu is split in two, food-wise at least. Brunch sees a combination of well-loved classics, such as the full and vegan breakfast, alongside more exotic options. For example the Turkish Poached Eggs, with spicy whipped garlic and harissa yogurt, mushrooms, chilli oil, dill and mint introducing a taste of Eurasia to the hungry people of North West England. A taste that continues with one of our favourites, Shakshuka, where spiced tomato and red pepper meet poached eggs and feta.
For dinner, inspiration comes more from the States, with a range of burgers — including oyster mushroom patties for the non-meat eaters out there, standard burritos and burrito bowls on offer. All of which is before we come to the signature cocktail menu, and busy events schedule, with every night of the weekend hosting something to hear, see, or even join in with. Open Mic sessions, Irish trad performances, and live band evenings all regularly feature at Rustik, often alongside specific deals on food and drink.