Velvet Central, Manchester

Modern bar and restaurant just of Manchester's Albert Square. Has seen a number on incarnations over the years before coming under the Velvet group who also operate a successful bar and hotel on Manchester's Canal Street.

The ground floor is long and thin with the bar stretching along the right-hand side with seating booths facing it. Beyond the bar is more seating with a spiral staircase that leads to a mezzanine balcony which can be reserved for private parties and groups of up to 25 people.

Two handpumps are on the bar with beers selected from the range of Hornbeam Brewery.

Food is available from the bar from midday. A soup & sandwich menu is offered until 4pm alongside the full main menu which is available all day. Downstairs in the basement is an a la carte restaurant which opens from 4pm - 10pm daily. There is also a function room downstairs that can seat 60 - 80 and is available for private parties.

Normally closed Sunday unless an event on in Albert square.