Opening in 2017, the original Blanchflower quickly made an impact in Altrincham. Driven by that success — not to mention their other interests, such as Longford Park’s Caffeine & Co — the team then looked further north for their next operation. Launched summer 2022, Blanchflower Sale looks to make the most of a town that has undergone a significant facelift, welcoming a multitude of new shops, eateries and drinking spots in the process. The result is a corner of Manchester that’s well worth exploring on foot to see what you can find.
Occupying a prime position in the area’s new foodie hub, Stanley Square, the minimalist, wood-clad interior sets the tone for a kitchen that does away with superlatives while delivering incredible food. Almost everything is made on site, whether you’re looking for cruffins and vegan banana loaf, a savoury brunch or lunch classic. Many mains show off the exceptional baked bits, and dishes have a seasonal focus. That means evergreen recipes aren’t easy to come by, although risotto of roasted squash with rosemary and parmesan toasted pumpkin seeds, handcrafted pies and roast swordfish give an idea of what to expect.
While midmorning and afternoon eats aren’t always synonymous with elevated dishes, deeper and more complex flavours, this is where Blanchflower really stands out. Pan roast pork loin steak, creamy mash potato, orange glazed carrots, butter roast parsnips, sticky red cabbage & fennel verde. Bouillabaisse with mussels, prawn, pan fried seabass, fondant potato, pickled fennel & sourdough. You get the point. Of course, this is also a go-to for lovers of great cakes and flawless desserts, with tiramisu and espresso syrup, a refined Manchester tart, and zesty apricot frangipane tart with basil cream all standing out. Add to this excellent coffees and teas, speciality soft drinks and a licensed bar, and you understand why this establishment is always packed.