The Alan

"An early evening pre-gig supper at The Alan was a culinary masterclass in modest portions with huge flavours that complemented each other so well, there was really not a low note on the menu from what we could see. A simple oyster served with kimchi opened the tastebuds and we moved on to a rosti of white Devon crabmeat, sweet and delicious. The goat cheese pudding with bacon jam was perhaps heavier than anticipated, but tasty. Then a small plate of steak tartare set our pulses racing again with perfect shavings of the tenderest raw beef, served with diced cornichons and egg. A small fried Guinea hen fillet was crisp, savoury and served with a green tomato purée took fried fowl to a new level of flavour. We opted for two large plates, one of salt aged duck with chard and plum, the other a monkfish tail with clams. Both exquisitely seasoned and generous portions. Fried Cheshire potatoes were a great side order. For dessert we selected milk & honey, a light parfait, and Ed’s 100s and 1000s - a dark chocolate and blackberry confection that ended the meal on a high. Paired with an interesting and unusual wine list - a white Assyrtiko from the Bekaa Valley was a revelation, as was the Primitivo Rose. I was being treated, so cannot comment on whether this was value for money, but on taste, balance and superb ingredients, I thought it was wonderful."

"A pleasant experience except for the dining room being really cold, very quiet but generally good food and service "

"I’ve clearly been missing out on the developing Manchester food scene by not buying in to the small plates thing much. Food here was excellent. A sort of slightly spicy shredded lamb special that was crispy to bite and just the right amount of dressing to make it not too dry. The Asparagus, Jersey Royals with duck egg recommended by the waitress was a spectacular triumph in mid- May. All I could do to stop myself from licking the plate clean. The cavatelli with crab was well done but a bit rich for my liking. I know it’s the tapas way to get it served when the kitchen cooks it but I would have liked it first rather than the lamb. Only a minor grumble though. Great, friendly service from an Estonian with a Mancunian accent, limited but good wine choice. Look forward to visiting again"