Everyone needs a proper caff in their life. The sort that happily piles steaming hot plates of breakfast in front of you, long past breakfast time. And doesn’t mind when you turn up looking like you made some questionable life decisions the night before. Or will even warmly welcome you through the door carrying a bag of cans with the lads (or lasses).
Down on the border of Old Trafford and Hulme you’ll find an unassuming grey-fronted shop, with no sign, that offers all that- and plenty more besides.
Don’t judge this book by its cover though, the inside has been fitted out in smart wood panelling and is light, clean and welcoming. “We’re trying to offer good home-cooked British food with a modern twist” co-owner Alex tells me.
“We want to create a friendly relaxed atmosphere, this is why we offer the BYOB experience with either brunch or evening food and also the roast dinners, which we do on the first Sunday of every month”
The place has only been open nine months, but as their loyal band of customers will no doubt attest, they’re doing it all right. Alongside your usual fry up fare expect to find Smashed avocado toast topped with poached eggs and fat, fried hunks of halloumi, smoked salmon or bacon.
The house recipe Rarebit, Jacket potatoes and a bunch of heavily stacked Sarnies more than make up the numbers on a well proportioned menu. For the protein fiends out there don’t miss Steak and eggs either, splashed with a smoky chipotle mayo.
It’s the full English that will probably be on most minds when heading down here though. Lancashire’s finest, Grandad’s Sausages – fresh from their street food trader of the year award at MFDF – supply the snags, and they’re glorious. The Big Gaff will earn you two, backed up by bundles of bacon and all the usual trimmings.
Tea and coffee is provided by another set of local heroes too. Worker Bee MCR gives a monthly donation from their sales to Forever Manchester & The Christie Charity, and they make a bloody good brew too.
So what’s next for The Gaff?
This weekend will see the launch of an evening menu and everything is also now available on Deliveroo, Uber Eats and Just Eat if you really can’t face stretching your legs. Plus the venue is open for hire for private functions or food pop ups, last time out saw chicken specialists Wingin It head down for a BYOB Chicken Wing party – you can’t say fairer than that.
We all want a caff like this on our doorstep, but even if you’re not living down these ends, you need to come check a breakfast at The Gaff. Whether you’re after a builders brew or a flat white, smashed avo or a greasy fry, these guys have got you covered.
The Gaff
3 Moss Ln W, Old Trafford, Stretford, Manchester M15 5PQ
0161 302 2074
