Launching in 2020 as a luxury rum liqueur brand, the idea behind Witch Kings was storytelling through flavours. Using the legendary tropical spirit as base note on which to top varying fresh fruit palettes, the results proved to be a huge hit. Soon expanding into live music events and pop up bars across Manchester, the crew then came across an ideal location in Levenshulme. Now an established cocktail haven with roadside and indoor seating, and cherished kitchen, it’s a welcome addition to a suburb that seems to be constantly evolving and increasing its food and drink choices.
Suffice to say, plenty of people come to this Slade Lane address for cocktails. On arrival, they’ll first find a smart but understated eggshell exterior giving way to a mid-sized space inside, statement wallpaper and purple lighting nod to their imagined Witch Kings — ethereal creatures, witches who are kings of the world between worlds, and obsessed with human music. Inspiration aside, artisanal drinks are very much the order of the day, created with love alongside liqueurs, tonics and syrups which have all been made on site from fresh, all-natural ingredients. The best bit, head down between 6pm and 7pm and you can enjoy two house cocktails for £10 (must be two of the same cocktail). There’s also a broad selection of draught beers, wines and other spirits if those are more suited to your tastes.
In addition to the exceptional bar, a French Alpine tapas-style menu is served, which makes perfect sense once you’ve experienced it. That means simple yet nuanced classics such as boeuf bourguinon, French onion soup, mini cheese fondue, and celeriac steak with beetroot bisque, which, as small plates, are perfect whatever the weather. As we hinted at before, the Witch Kings know a thing or two about tunes, too, and run a busy programme of free live music, including weekly folk on Fridays and jazz Thursdays, alongside other social activities and family-focused roast dinners, all in this cosy, vibrant and inviting space.