If one street reflects the wonders of suburban life in South Manchester it’s probably Burton Road. A bustling thoroughfare overflowing with highly regarded options for food and drink, the tree-lined, Victorian red-brick aesthetics of the area all contribute to the charming feeling, a combination of classic residential architecture, urban greenery, and contemporary hospitality that you don’t get often enough. It’s in and among all this that we find Santé, a Mediterranean small plate specialist open seven days a week.
Situated in the heart of West Didsbury, limited seating is available outside for those after the pavement cafe experience, but inside is just as appealing. Simple, pared back design allows brickwork and industrial flooring to make themselves known, contrasted by a generous dose of plant life positioned on tables, bars, and hanging from the ceiling itself. White and blue colour schemes complement those features, rather than working against them, and nod to the Greek village tavernas at least some of the dishes on offer have taken inspiration from. Speaking of eating, food is available daily from 12PM and comes in the form of a reassuringly well-selected menu.
Moving from nibbles such as Olives and Habas Fritas things quickly get more complex, with firm favourites like Salsa Romesco and Flatbread, Keftedes (meatballs of pork and veal), and Bavette (30 day dry aged steak with preserved lemon and rosemary butter). Crispy croquettes, Gambas prawns, and Squid & Chorizo Ragu are also up there. Tiramisu and Cheesecake are the up there with the desserts, as well as Torrijas, a sweet Spanish toast. Drinks keep it continental, with a healthy range of European beers on draught and in bottles, along with an extensive cocktail offering that’s crying out for another round. Spanish, Italian, and French wines dominate the list, with a dedicated Gin section to boot. From 12 to 6pm, customers can order three small plates for £15, and the Santé Late Night Club, essentially a happy hour, runs daily from 9PM, with two pints for £8, two doubles and mixers for £10 and two spritz for £12. Choose from Aperol, Hugo, or Watermelon.