Manahatta has landed in Rose Street with a burst of glitter and neon and it’s hotter than Hell’s Kitchen.
The NYC-inspired chain of cocktail bars has party vibes, top eats and beats from classic disco 70s to "bang-up-to-date Beyoncé" comments Simon, Mrs Bite’s partner-in-dine (ing) for our visit. Requests for tunes are welcomed and played on the Baby Grand every Thursday.
I start with a Spicy Margarita: El Jimador
Reposado tequila, Ancho Reyes chilli liqueur, yuzu sake, yuzu sherbet, and pineapple; then promptly order a second: one to take the edge off the day and one to savour. It’s salty, citrusy, sour and tropical.
For food, Simon has:” the most tender Calamari I’ve never had to chew in my life” while I plump for Neon Salmon Tacos, vibrant with fresh vegetables and herbs that flirt with rich salmon like Carrie Bradshaw with 'Big'.
We’re getting the NYC ‘feels’ so order MORE.
Plumply stuffed Veggie Gyozas for me and, wait for it, breakfast for Simon! Yes, posh breakfasts are fresh from the kitchen until 4 pm. Satiate your craving for avocado and poached eggs until the radio blasts drive-time news.
Main courses come in US-style portions; a signature Steak Frites has onion rings piled high as the Empire State. A nest of sweet potato and conventional fries, and a pot of piquant peppercorn sauce complete this moreish plate of food.
No room for pudding this time but Simon says:
“Leave a Battery Park-sized hole for the Little Apple, a take on the American tradition that’s as homely as Mom’s own.”
Two floors boast impressive art-deco-inspired arched back bars and bold pink, blue and gold decor and lighting exudes the mood of New York sidewalks and Times Square. A giant mirrored disco ball gilds the already glamorous lily and an elevated DJ booth overlooks the sprawling dancefloor.
I am not sure Rose Street is ready for brash Manahatta but let’s give it a big Caledonia welcome.
(S. Walton, S Wilson).
Manahatta - 28 Rose Street, Edinburgh
Multi-faceted sophisticated bar, diner, and night spot that’s reasonable value.
Affordable dining in a place that should cost thrice as much
Small plates around a tenner and most mains less than twice that.
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