Swan Street was once just that road separating the Northern Quarter from Ancoats. Today, it has become a nightlife destination in its own right. That’s thanks in no small part to the team behind The Firehouse and Ramona next door, which together form an outside-inside institution offering everything from exceptional eats and fine cocktails to live music, club-style events, theatre and plenty more besides.
With its high ceiling and industrial aesthetic, The Firehouse occupies an old mechanics station that has now been converted into a party paradise, metal support beams adorned with fairy lights and an incredible soundtrack. Suffice to say, though, the focus here is firmly on what’s being served up on plates, which the team are understandably proud of. As the name might suggests, an open fire kitchen specialises in artisanal chicken and dishes inspired by the long Californian summers. So alongside poultry that means Chargrilled Oyster Mushroom Kabobs, Beetroot Borani, Stracciatella, and Crushed Roast Fingerling Potatoes.
Anyone visiting by day can find a Saturday brunch menu during the afternoon, featuring protein and green-heavy bowls, French toast, bacon and sausage pitas. Meanwhile, Baked Chocolate Pudding and Lemon Posset give an idea as to how desserts shape up. Cocktails and wines are a big thing here and far too plentiful to list, with a long line of beers also waiting to sink. Most importantly, Firehouse has a packed events programme, which ranges from Club de Vino (50% off wine, Aperol and pittas with every table booking on weekdays) through to voguing exhibitions, which happen most nights from 10PM. Fringe, a dazzling cabaret showcase comprising three acts, takes over on Thursdays, while Fridays open the floor to Ghetto Fabulous and more voguing. Saturdays mean House of Fire, an avant garde-style dance performance, and Sundays are all about roast dinners, with vegetarian and vegan options available and plenty of trimmings.
