Don’t know about you but I want to be impressed, I want something different, and I want somewhere I can walk into without suddenly becoming overwhelmed with the fact that I am definitely not cool enough to be there.
But if you are bored of exposed brick, avocado and paying four entire English pounds for a coffee experience identical to the one next door, then you might be refreshed by Idle Hands.
The interior is fresh, light and airy which makes a welcome change from the other Edison bulb lit chambers dotted around the rest of the NQ. The focus is on good coffee (obviously), sweet pies with some serious Twin Peaks vibes and savoury plates that are not restricted by an overriding theme. They also have a range of ever-changing beers, wines and cocktails to liquefy that lunch.
Naturally, it is important to note that they are no stranger to us with their documented difficulties with their landlord in their original project over the road. After some fund-raising and a bit of good ol’ fashioned hard work they have bounced back and are ready to become a serious contender in the Northern Quarter coffee game.
Pop in for a brew with one of their speciality roasts from Koppi, Worksop and Dark Arts alongside some seriously good pie. The chocolate, orange and pistachio is what dreams are made of and is topped off with a healthy dollop of cream to make the entire experience that little bit sweeter.
I must say the Idle Hands coffee, pie and booze concept is an innovative one and makes a nice change from the endless sea of pretentious coffee shops which lack original identity. The coffee is excellent, the food- spectacular and the general vibe is worth a return in itself. Bravo!
Idle Hands Coffee, Dale House, 35 Dale Street, NQ, Manchester, M1 2HF
idlehandscoffee.com/
