Walrus, Manchester

My first experience of Walrus was about eight years ago, back in the days where I thought I didn't like cocktails, and clearly knew nothing. Since then, the Northern Quarter exploded with new restaurants and watering holes, with Walrus sat there as a bit of a veteran in this ever expanding part of town.

Last week we were invited to try the new menu, so off we went, with empty bellies and open minds. It was like press central in there, which always makes me feel like a bit of an interloper, despite the fact I've been doing this blogging malarky for around seven years now. Lots of people taking pictures of the new menu, with fancy cameras working the angles. Ladies and gents, I am here to give you the average Doll's view of proceedings!

Let's start with the feel of the place. Comfy booths, friendly bar staff, and a rather lovely front of house manager. We liked her a lot! Drinks were swiftly in hand, with cocktail being sipped and beer poured within a few minutes. I feel I have to warn you that opting for multiple Um Bongos may leave you legless after a few, as it tastes like actual pop. Not a bad thing.

Also recommended from the cocktail menu are the Solero (yes, of the ice lolly fame) and a Manchester take on the classic Bramble, with Vimto poured over the top.

So onto the food. There's nothing fussy here, and I'd suggest that this menu has been designed to be an accompaniment to the lovely drinks.

Chipotle beef pizza with sweetcorn and tomato salsa: Massive. Perfect to share, or eat it alone if you don't mind dozing off. Tasty chipotle beef, however we felt there needed to be more cheese on this, and maybe some sort of herbs for seasoning.

Mac n cheese balls with tomato and basil sauce: Do you even reside in the Northern Quarter if you don't serve these? Nice and crispy on the outside with lots of cheese on the inside.

Dirty fries - doner meat, pickled chillis, mozzarella, and yoghurt sauce: By far my favourite thing I tried. Imagine the scene... you're five cocktails deep and you have the munchies - THIS. My only slight issue is that the 'doner' is too high quality! This is not a real criticism, just the ramblings of my 'five cocktails deep' self. Apologies for the terrible lighting on this one, we were nowhere near a window (blogger problems).

When I review somewhere, I like to imagine who might go, and for what occasion. Many of my friends go to Manchester purely to drink, which is a totally alien concept for me, as I am ruled by food. This is the perfect compromise. Drinkers, you are going to be rather happy with the choice of cocktails and beers on offer, whilst your little piglet friends like me can enjoy some tasty nibbles on the side.

Book yourself a booth, get settled, let the DJ spin some tunes and relax.