Opened back in January, Mollie’s was a truly ambitious project, bringing a much-loved motel brand from the plains of Oxford into Manchester city centre – not to mention into one of the most iconic buildings in the city: the Old Granada TV Studios.
Since then, this plush, elevated motel-diner concept has gone from strength to strength, absorbing much of the creativity and 60s style the building exudes, whilst becoming authentically its own. Not just a stunning hotel offering with all the mod-cons, Mollie’s offers the full experience, complete with luxe diner, elegant speakeasy bar, and all the mid-century furnishings you might expect to find in Architectural Digest.
We’ve been lucky enough to try the place out, now Mollie’s is firmly rooted into its Quay Street location, and from our experience, visitors are in for an absolute treat.
The hotel
Filling the iconic 1954 Granada Studios tower are a myriad unique boltholes to suit every need. Carefully preserving those distinctive windows – once looked out of by the likes of Tony Warren when scripting the early days of Coronation Street, and Jeremy Paxman when heading up the revived University Challenge – the suites are of course impeccably designed, packed with warm wooden features, soft lighting and cloud-like beds.
Luxurious bathrooms offer everything you could need, including sumptuous Cowshed products, alongside premium Dyson styling tools available to use in front of the stunningly-lit vanity mirror. There’s truly nothing like unlocking the door to your own slice of paradise after a long day, melting under a steaming rainfall shower, and immediately getting cosy in a king sized bed.
If going to bed as soon as you check in isn’t for you (we can’t imagine, but you do you), a selection of plush chairs and even a boutique sofa sit at the foot of the bed, perfect for lounging, reading or taking in the frankly huge TV screen – on which you can cast whatever your heart desires. Did someone say “perfect”?
What’s more, a sleek kitchenette area ensures you never go thirsty, with a fully-stocked mini bar, coffee machine with a selection of pods, a boiling water tap and plenty of glasses and cutlery to tide you over. But don’t go too crazy, because you’ve yet to experience the diner downstairs…
The diner
A lightning-fast lift journey away, the diner is arguably the main attraction at Mollie’s. Styled as an elevated, luxe American diner, the restaurant space is light and casual, with a hint of intimate ambience and of course incredible food.
Modern takes on American classics include the Mollie’s Double Cheeseburger, the New Yorker and the Pastrami & Swiss – a mega sandwich which is a must-try for any pickle fans like us. Porter House Steak, Roast Half Chicken and Pork Belly Rib are just some of the grill options to salivate over, with classic plates including Mac & Three Cheese, Chicken ‘n’ Waffle and Prawn Tacos to accompany.
There’s also plenty to choose from in the sweet treats category, if you’ve got room, with Ice Cream Sundaes and an immense Apple Pie with vanilla ice cream – which tastes all the sweeter when boxed up and taken to your room…
If you’re not still full from an incredible spread in the evening, the breakfast offering come morning time is just as impressive. Float back down onto the chequered floor, slip into a red leather-clad booth and tuck into something light, or the full works as you rejuvenate with your morning coffee and freshly-squeezed juice.
American diner classics like French Toast, Waffles or Buttermilk Pancakes will have you feeling like you’ve tripped into Luke’s Diner à la Gilmore Girls, with plenty of egg, toast and topping varieties available to add.
Straying away from the American style of the place for a minute, you can also get your hands on a Full English or a Plant Breakfast depending on your preference, or if you’re feeling a little full, the Yoghurt & Berries, Granola and Yoghurt Bowls are the perfect choice. If you’re on-the-go, grab one of the freshly baked muffins and a quick coffee, or pay a visit to the coffee kiosk next to the diner – Mollie’s is for everyone to enjoy.
What else to expect
Studio IV
Another huge selling point for Mollie’s is of course the downstairs bar, Studio IV. Sprawling out onto the terrace facing the St John’s district when the weather behaves, the bar is perfect for music-lovers, groups of friends and solo travellers alike, offering an intimate experience under moody lights and nostalgic touches.
Alongside an extensive drinks menu and, of course, more stunning interiors, the bar doubles as a music venue, with musicians coming in all forms every weekend evening. Described as warm, considered and rooted in Manchester’s musical DNA (soul, funk, disco and jazz-influenced electronic), the line-up here is perfectly curated, and makes an evening at Studio IV is a wonderful way to round out the perfect day at Mollie’s.
Work from Mollie’s
If you’re planning to bring work with you to Mollie’s, you don’t need to worry about where to station yourself. With an entire lounge dedicated to working from ‘home’ (as we’re calling it) and generally going about your business, you’ll find the perfect perch for your set-up, decked out with cosy furnishings to make sure you’re comfortable and enveloped whilst you work.
Design & nods to Manchester’s history
Make sure to keep an eye out for nod to Manchester’s music history, heritage and of course, the Old Granada Studios amongst the stylish mid-century design, and take note of the little touches that make the place feel complete and just like home. We certainly will.
Enjoy the surrounding St John’s district
Located in the thriving St John’s district of Manchester, you’ll find yourself surrounded by bars, restaurants and cafes to frequent along your visit – whether it’s a quick game and pint at Courts Club, a trip to the former Rovers Return within the walls of Stables Tavern, or catch a game of football with a spritz out on The Green.
What’s more, if you’re around on a Saturday, you’re just a stone’s throw from the wonderful Campfield Market, which creeps onto Grape Street. Get your artisan fix with locally baked food, handmade gifts and unique clothing on offer throughout the morning and early afternoon, take in some vitamin D (hopefully) and thank Mollie’s for the wonderful experience.
📍You can find Mollie’s at Old Granada TV Studios, 2 Atherton St, Manchester M3 3GS.
🛌 You can book a stay at Mollie’s Hotel from £93 per night here.
