Cutting Room Square is a prime example of Manchester regeneration at its most vivid. At once showcasing the city’s industrial heritage — Ancoats was at the beating heart of the Victorian-era revolution — and the best of modern culture and culinary offerings, it’s here we find Cafe Cotton. “Feeding residents and workers for more than 10 years,” as the team proudly put it, the place is committed to providing value for money with excellent breakfast, lunchtime sandwiches and refreshments made using the best ingredients.
Situated in the Hallé St Peter’s, a church converted into a stunning contemporary cultural space where the Hallé Orchestra rehearse, record, and perform, among other talent, the menu is packed with homemade snacks, treats and light bites. Think chicken salad on locally-baked sourdough bread, Greek melts on olive oil focaccia, upmarket fish butties, and jumbo shrimp po boys. Those looking for something sweet won’t come up short either, with classics like billionaire shortbread and carrot cake on offer, alongside orange, cranberry and pistachio buns, and blueberry bakewells, many of which are vegan friendly.
In contrast, main dishes are the order for each evening, with a range of local and continental beers, wines and cocktails playing accompaniment to the food. We’re big fans of the non-alcoholic drinks selection at Cafe Cotton, too. Thanks to a partnership with Atkinsons of Lancaster, refreshing loose leaf blend, Earl Grey, Blue Sky, green, hedgerow, and peppermint teas are all options. Meanwhile, coffees run from straight-up Americano and indulgent cappuccino through to beetroot, turmeric, matcha and chai lattes.