Underbank

We’re off to the opening of Underbank. A name with fantastic search engine optimisation, but slightly challenging to explain to your non-Stockport friends, it’s the biggest newly opened venue on the block. 

You can hear it down the street. From miles away. Nell and Des, who own Nook Cafe Bar in nearby Heaton Moor, have launched the new multi-storey bar, venue and kitchen at exactly the right time. With tables spilling out into the sun, and a rooftop bar set to open soon, this is the suntrap Stockport needs.

The taps are thoughtfully curated. Guinness, of course, but also a really tasty selection of locally brewed pints from the likes of Pomona and Runaway. The prices of the cocktails are a genuine shock. A pleasant shock, mind you. £9 for an espresso martini is dangerous work.

Underbank promises a really exciting roster of rotating kitchen residencies. But for now, we’re starting with Steve Patel from Vaso Kitchens. It’s quite seriously the perfect food for after you’ve had a few pints, but not yet kebab-ready. Hearty, flavourful, but no faffing about. 

We get the Butter Chicken Loaded Curry Fries and the Paneer Tikka Naan Bread. The Butter Chicken has a perfect chicken-to-fry ratio. It’s generous. Topped with coriander, pickled red onions, chillies, and chutney, it’s like the lovechild of fine Indian dining and a British night out. Which, really, is a reflection of the whole atmosphere. To put it simply: relaxed – but bloody good. 

The Paneer Tikka Naan is glorious. A great veggie option that isn’t just rabbit food – it’s every bit as satisfying as the offerings for meat-eaters. A super buttery, herby naan with a great lashing of yoghurt raita and mixed spices on top. 

It’s a strong opening night. Underbank has DJs, disco balls, photobooths and plenty of space to dance. It’s nailed the right kind of energy and has plenty more to promise once that rooftop opens. This one’s getting a re-visit.