The Daisy

You’ll find The Daisy underneath the wonderful Evelyn’s, a small plates restaurant we’ve visited (and loved) many times over the years. Old-timers might recall that Daisy actually opened back in 2017 as a members-only bar before realising that kind of thing doesn’t fly in the rainy city, and wisely walking it back. 

In keeping with the name, it’s a female-led space, and indeed, on our brief visit, the main punters were gangs of girl mates with a few couples tucked away in hidden corners. Rowdy stag dos? Not here, not by a long shot. 

Expect pink lighting, plush seating and a design feel that’s a touch more considered and elegant than the usual. 

At the weekends, it’s something of a party destination, with packed-out tables and a decidedly banging soundtrack, with resident DJs. It’s not the biggest place, so booking a table is recommended, or else you’ll be left out in the cold, or at the very least, waiting on the steps to be allowed in. 

Outside of the peak party nights, it transforms into more of a cultural hub, hosting regular readings, talks and candlelight chess nights. From cocktails to chess in one easy move? It doesn’t get much more Northern Quarter than that. 

The Daisy is one of Manchester’s more in-demand basement bars, offering an underground Paris-inspired night out and “late-night escapism” for the people of Manchester. It’s discreet and intimate, with a long and lovingly curated drinks list.