It’s almost impossible to remember what was going on in the area where HOME now stands prior to its 2015 opening. One of Greater Manchester’s flagship arts and cultural destinations, widely regarded among the UK’s foremost arts organisations, pre-pandemic it was welcoming just under 1 million visitors per year to a mixed programme of theatre, cinema, exhibitions and more. Alongside its incredible programme of listings sits HOME Bar & Kitchen, both a pre and post-theatre destination for some seriously good grub.
Created as a new base for sorely missed Oxford Road independent cinema, The Cornerhouse, and the acclaimed Library Theatre Company, it’s a favourite hangout for the city’s artistic, creative, and cultural professionals. All will enjoy an excellent selection of wines, beers and spirits, alongside a large choice of soft drinks, and the option to take glasses to their seat if they’re watching a performance. Delicious cakes and pastries, alongside other casual snacks, are also available. The Home Bar & Kitchen terrace is also a great place to enjoy a tipple or dish from their takeaway bar menu, alternatively if the sun is shining, their HOMEBREW van outside not only serves draught beer and cocktails but boasts a new spritz menu too.
Next find a first floor restaurant which is ideal for a leisurely lunch or pre-theatre dinner. Menu divided into three, pick from the Il Circolo hand-stretched pizza range, or one of the home comforts. For example, slow roasted lamb, chargrilled hispi cabbage, or cauliflower buffalo wings. The Little Fern section, meanwhile, covers a series of market plates, such as teriyaki salmon, chargrilled halloumi, saag dahl, and chargrilled Greek chicken souvlaki, alongside superfood salads like avocado poke and North African buddha. There’s also the option to build your own, add protein and tasty extras. Vegan, halal, vegetarian and gluten-free all available. Finally, a third space, on the second floor of HOME, offers a more limited choice of alcoholic and non-alcoholic refreshments.