September 2023. Stretford.
Enough of The Smiths heritage, let’s head back to Stretford’s heritage mall.
I thought there might be a tourist office to explain the history of the “Stretford Giants“,
but sadly not.
Feeling inspired by those “Meat Is Murder” quotations on the Iron Bridge I had brunch in the Stretford Canteen, as good a little bistro as I’ve been to in Greater Manchester. Mushrooms and vine tomatoes on sourdough; gooey and gorgeous. Should probably devise a scoring system for it.
Although I no longer feel the need to complete a GBG again, the urge to let it guide me round the country has never left. Why else would I find myself staring at old Post Offices in Stretford on my first visit in six years, wondering when it will become a Brunning & Price.
There’s a food hall at the front of the mall with craft beers on tap; for a nervy moment I thought that was the new GBG entry recommended pub.
But here’s the Longford Tap, fronted by gorgeous floral display.
Yes, it’s very modern bar, but I love the history panels on the walls,
and the test tubes showing you beer colours in the shape of jugs,
and the jukebox, pumping out banging tunes at just the right volume.
Who can resist Kiki Dee at 97db ?
Not only do I get the always great company of Quosh who knows all the latest openings in Mancly, but also Sara of Sarah@Twoilets fame who’s local and gives me the latest on plans to turn Stretford into Altrincham or something. She’d like the toilet art;
Yes, that is Cruella and Richie.
The house beer is Marble, cool and rich (3+).
But it’s the Old Boys who make the place, and not just for their eclectic jukebox choices.
Great place, but will it make the Guide. You can find out tomorrow.
retiredmartin 