We all dealt with the fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic in different ways. Some of us retreated to the safety of our four walls with the help of Netflix and co., while others were quite a bit more productive than that. And when we say ‘quite’, we mean, creating an entirely new and unique business in one of Manchester’s many thriving neighbourhoods. Didsbury local Jemma O’Brien falls into that latter category, with the founding of KIOSK.
Seeing huge potential in a storage cupboard below her flat, which was previously used to store the outdoor furniture for neighbouring bar Wine & Wallop, former hospitality worker Jemma decided to take a chance and go it alone, after losing most of her work as a result of the pandemic.
The result has been a new local hotspot, which Didsbury dwellers have been flocking to frequently since its grand opening back in May 2021.
Previously donning a 70s-esque woodchip aesthetic, the cupboard has been given a completely new lease of life – after failing to become an access point to the flats above. Now, the cupboard’s original brick has been revealed and cleaned up, with Jemma and her team fitting a bar, counter, fridges, storage and worktop space to create what is now known as KIOSK on Lapwing.
Now, you’re probably wondering whether this is some kind of Harry Potter cupboard under the stairs situation, and you’d be right to question it because there absolutely is no room to swing a cat in there. But while the cupboard lacks in space inside, on the pavement, the tiny bar has been granted permission to create a welcoming outdoor terrace – which is now filled with pink chairs and tables in keeping with KIOSK’s sunset pink and terrazzo vibe.
From the terrace, guests can enjoy delicious coffees supplied by Blossom coffee roasters, organic fizz from Le Social Wine on tap (because there’s zero room for bottles in the cupboard!), beer from First Chop brewery and a classic selection of cocktails; including Negronis, Espresso Martinis, Aperol Spritz, Bloody Mary and Mimosas.
In addition, guests can also enjoy a selection of tasty bakes from Levenshulme’s Long Bois Bakery, which includes biscuits, cakes and pastries.
Open now on Lapwing Lane, KIOSK can be enjoyed 7 days a week, opening at 8am on weekdays and 10am on weekends. Find them at Lapwing Ln, West Didsbury, M20 6UT next to the Post Office.