In a city that seems like it has endless options of places to eat and drink, it can be pretty difficult to actually make a decision. Seriously. How is one supposed to decide when almost every vibe, almost every cuisine, and almost every price range sits within our city boundary? Every bar and restaurant in Manchester has its own little niche, and for Foodwell/Firefly – being both a day and night destination is theirs.
Offering relaxed, Californian vibes by day – accompanied with bright and airy lighting and even palm trees inside – Foodwell takes a mindful approach that’s become synonymous with the LA elite, serving serious sunshine vibes with each and every dish. We’re talking detox bowls, turmeric tofu scramble, coconut Katsu chicken, and small plates such as Korean BBQ cauliflower ‘wings’, tempura prawns and so much more.
Fusing LA influences with all corners of Asia, guests can tuck in on healthy-leaning brunch dishes and tapas-style plates, alongside a menu of ‘Foodwell Favourites’ which consists of bigger, heartier dishes such as trofie pasta, cauli and coconut curry, and miso-teriyaki grilled chicken, to name a few.
But by night is when Foodwell evolves, transforming into a mysteriously chic cocktail bar that exudes New York City vibes. Setting aglow as the night falls, Foodwell gracefully becomes Firefly – a name that nods towards its nightly twinkle and low-lit setting that’s perfect for late-night dining and drinks.
Unveiling its evening persona every day from 6pm, guests are invited to unwind beneath a ceiling jungle glittered with fairy lights, while taking in an immersive atmosphere that’s complemented by frequent DJ sets.
On the menu, it becomes all about the sushi – with delicious creations such as Nigiri, Sashimi, and even a sushi fusion menu packed with tasty new additions such as the Wagyu burger roll, Korean pulled pork sushi rolls, and a five-spiced crispy duck roll, too. Elsewhere on the menu, guests can tuck into the charcoal grill menu – with plates such as Chilean striped seabass, côte de boeuf, and miso-teriyaki grilled chicken.
Cocktail-wise, the drinks look almost too good to sip on, with Instagrammable options such as the Leotini; complete with a ‘fairy bubble’ on top, the Fallen Angel; complete with feathers, and the Honeycomb Espresso Martini; complete with a decorative lump of honeycomb.
Open from 10am til midnight on Friday and Saturdays, 11pm Wednesday-Thursday and 9pm on Sundays, Foodwell and Firefly can be found at Suite 2, Ground Floor, One New Bailey, Stanley St, Salford, M3 5JL.