The name of this premium Manchester-based bar stems from a forgotten classic cocktail, the Blinker. This three ingredient drink blends rye, grapefruit and raspberry and has inspired the site’s seasonal approach to perfect serves.
“Locally sourced, artfully mixed [and] served with care,” is how drinks are summed up at the cocktail spot, which is headed by ex-Gordon Ramsay bars boss Dan Berger. It operates as a walk-in venue and promises “good company” for all who come through the doors.
Berger is the director and founder of Iceberg Bar Consultancy and previously worked for Pernod Ricard, as well as acting as head of bars at the Ned.
Influenced by British seasonality, the menu changes monthly and always focuses around four in-season flavours. With a dedicated Martini and Old Fashioned section, there’s a heavy focus on the classics, but the bar has something for everyone.
On the cocktail list you’ll find drinks including an Applewood Old Fashioned, which combines Aberfeldy 12yo, toasted applewood and honey old fashioned reduction, as well as an Army and Navy in which Plymouth dry, banana, Fino sherry, almond and lemon are mixed.
There’re also non-alcoholic serves as well as smaller cocktails including mini versions of the Manhattan, Margarita and Martini.
You can find the bar at the top of King Street on Spring Gardens in the city’s centre. Its home is a grand building close to Hotel Gotham and Six by Nico.
If you’re peckish, there’s also the option to get snacks delivered to your table. Truffle crisps, cacio e pepe toasties with three types of cheese and black pepper or a sausage roll with mustard are all on the cards.
