One of the reasons I know this is because I was part of the ‘celebrity’ judging team, even though I’m less of a celebrity than that woman who put a cat in a wheelie bin a few years ago.
Anyway, I was required to eat 5 brunches over the weekend, which was a slog in itself. I was however very lucky to try some truly fantastic places and dishes, including this year’s winner – Fress!
Customers brunching at all 13 venues over the weekend were asked to score their brunch based on several factors including food, drinks, service and overall experience. Votes were counted and an average score applied to each venue. With a combination of the most votes collected and an average score of 4.9, Fress were an outright winner.
As a visitor to Fress I’m not surprised with this announcement – not only was the venue very busy and clearly popular, but I also enjoyed a fantastic Cronut and perhaps the best Smashed Avo dish I’ve ever had in the city or elsewhere.
I was however also very impressed with the other places I visited, including Albert Square Chop House whose Corned Beef Hash was absolutely fantastic, and Cottonopolis‘ Japanese inspired brunch dishes (and the best Bloody Mary), which sorted my head out on a rather fragile Sunday morning.
Well done to Fress though, and Barry Chui, owner, had this to say; “As a new, small independent business this absolutely means the world to us to be voted Manchester’s best brunch – by the people of Manchester!”
Ray Sherlock, Director of Engage Hub commented ‘Battle of the Brunch was a great success – there was a real buzz surrounding brunch throughout Manchester not only across the social channels but in the venues themselves. We were amazed by the number of people that voted and could not be happier with the winner who truly deserved to take the crown of best brunch’