Ramona

Follow the lights. What used to be an old MOT garage, just off Swan Street, is now Ramona. Lit up in a yellow hue and yet hidden away behind tin walls, the warm atmosphere – and the firepits – will draw you in. 

Next door neighbour Firehouse shares more than a wall with Ramona. The team of Firehouse and Diecast – that big outdoor venue down the road – are also the developers of Ramona. However, this venue is a little different. 

Ramona is famous for serving up Detroit style pizza. I can tell you first hand, it deserves the buzz. The pizza is something else, as is the venue itself. 

So if you are wondering what makes this pizza different to any other slice of pizza in Manchester, well I’ll tell you. It’s the dough. Every pizza is made using focaccia dough, they leave it to ferment for at least 24 hours before even thinking about putting it near an oven. This ensures the bubbles. The bubbles are essential in making sure that the pizza slice you receive is soft, fluffy and flavourful. 

My personal favourite is the Jabba slice. The tomato sauce, Finocchiona salami, ‘Nduja, hot honey, sweet peppers and jalapenos, blend together to form a spicy and delicious bite every time. 

And don’t skip past the sides either – hot wings, truffle tots, even the salad is worth a taste. Pair all that with an expertly crafted cocktail and you have yourself a meal. 

But don’t be mistaken in thinking they just stopped there. Delicious pizza and great drinks are just for starters. Ramona is now a – in demand – music venue of their own. With an outdoor stage and DJ booth tucked under a marquee (smart move, this is still the North of England after all). 

The entire venue is technically outside. Like a huge tent intertwined with the trees. Then there is a chalet-like section with 360 windows and long wooden benches. No matter where you sit, you will feel the warmth of a firepit and be lit by the many, many fairy lights decorating the space above your head.