Formerly known as Athenaeum, the Browns' chain took over the premises in 2011.
Originally occupied by Parrs Bank the building was designed by Charles Heathcote in 1902 and is a superb example of Edwardian baroque with some increasingly fashionable art nouveau detailing. A large room hosts the bar and relaxed seating areas.
This bar has had an on-off relationship with cask ale, currently off.
Conversion
Originally occupied by Parr's Bank the 1902 building is a superb example of Edwardian baroque with art nouveau detailing. It is among the most opulent of the surviving banking halls. An impressive vestibule entrance leads to a large room hosting an imposing island bar and stylish seating areas with interesting nooks and crannies. These are complemented by massive marble pillars, an ornate plasterwork ceiling and frieze, rooms partitioned by a full height screen and mahogany panelled walls and a fireplace. Operated by M&B with meals but no real ale. Grade II*-listed.
Browns Bar & Brasserie, Manchester