It not usual for me to venture into to a bar that is within a national chain of hotel such as Hilton. I had however been hearing good things about the opening of the brand new Store Street Exchange within the DoubleTree by Hilton in Manchester.

Therefore when I was invited to experience it as a guest at their grand opening, I was more than happy to go along and find out for myself.

The name itself had been taken from its location opposite Piccadilly Station, which was originally called Store Street when it opened in 1852.

Inside the decor was tasteful and definitely hinted at the historical side of its name, with lots of filament light bulbs and lots of leather. The bar area was welcoming and a place I would be quite happy sitting in, even if I wasn’t staying at the hotel itself, something that every hotel bar would like to accomplish. Store Street Exchange is definitely wanting to make itself a destination in itself, rather than a bolt on to the hotel.

The menu is designed to look like a newspaper and contains some everyday comforts. Offering Rotisserie Chicken, Beef Rump Roast and Moroccan Spiced Lamb Shoulder all along with a host of sides including Rotisserie Potatoes or Garlic Mash, this is definitely a menu that I would only be to happy to eat from time and time again.

Beers are supplied through Manchester Brewery JW Lees and their Manchester Pale Ale is available on tap, with 10p from every pint going to Forever Manchester. Its not just about the beer though as cocktails also feature and not to forget that Manchester favourite – Gin, of which the Thomas Dakin was being enjoyed by quite a few people on opening night.

Wines are all available by the Glass, with some great options available, I personally developed a love for the Rioja – a Vivanco Crianza, that whilst being a crianza was bursting with flavour with a great taste of oak, it tasted like a much more expensive wine than it actually is.

The opening certainly seemed a success and the taste of Wines, Gin and Snacks that were on hand certainly made me think of this as place that I would be only to happy to frequent.

Store Street Exchange can be found in the DoubleTree by Hilton opposite Piccadilly Station