It’s not quite been here long enough to remember when all this was trees, but nevertheless Folk has been holding it down for well over a decade now as the large neighbourhood bar in the centre of leafy West Didsbury with the laidback vibe and style. Made iconic by its al fresco terraced area, which has gone from bamboo and palm-lined Balearic to retractable sun-roof chic, the establishment is a cornerstone of the Burton Road drag, and is a firm favourite in an area renowned for firm favourites.
Under new ownership since 2021, aesthetically things have take on a more modern look and feel but the focus remains pretty much the same. Specifically: serve excellent brunch and evening food, pour fantastic cocktails, grind and brew amazing coffee, and play good music to a discerning clientele. All in an inviting, relaxed establishment that puts the emphasis on warm welcomes, making for the kind of place you can spend all day.
Looking to plates, and it’s all about seasonality, with everything made in-house to exacting standards. A reassuringly small menu allows the kitchen at Folk to focus on doing what it does very well, which is contemporary yet classic cuisine. That means Steak & Eggs, Huevos Picanté, Apple French Toast and Avocado, Halloumi and Mushroom Burrito until 3PM. After that, it might be Charred Courgette & Truffled Ricotta Bruschetta, Mumbai Toast, or Prawn Pil Pil for evening guests. Behind the bar, a great selection of beers and wines have been handpicked to suit ambience, not just the dishes, and cocktails are as good as you’ll find in South Manchester. Buzzing by day, the place really come into its own later, with DJs regularly putting in a shift, and an entire night dedicated to Folk’s renowned smashed patty cheeseburgers. An invaluable asset that shines among abundant surrounding options.