Five of Manchester’s finest and best-loved restaurants are battling it out in a unique cooking and cocktail and service competition on Wednesday 20 October.
As part of Edrington UK’s ‘CREATE’ project – an advocacy programme highlighting the strength in collaboration between the kitchen, the front of house, and the bartender teams – the chefs and bar staff at Australasia, Tast, Tariff & Dale, The Alchemist, and New World Trading Company – who own The Botanist – have been prepping and practicing ahead of the brand-new competition that’s challenging them to think differently about spirits.
The chefs and bar staff have been tasked with coming up with some tasty dishes and cocktails that each use a different brand of spirit, and these will then be expertly presented by the front of house to an exclusive, industry-leading judging panel on Wednesday.
Forget wine, the chefs taking part in CREATE will be cooking with Highland Park single malt whisky, Roku gin, and more.
CREATE is focusing on the importance of food pairing and service when creating the perfect consumer experience.
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It may be a competition, but this one-of-a-kind project has also given the participants one-on-one time with CREATE’s industry experts to allow for mentorship and coaching ahead of the big day.
CREATE’s founders say the project is about “crafting the spirit in food, together”.
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The restaurants and bars have been tasked with coming up with some tasty dishes and cocktails that each use a different brand of spirit / Credit: The Manc Group
The Manc’s very-own Food & Drink Editor, Georgina Pellant, will be on the judging panel at the competition – which is taking place at the neutral venue of Hilltop Country House in Macclesfield.
And our presenter and food-enthusiast, Joe McGrath, was also lucky enough to get to chat with two chefs and one bartender last week to find out how they were getting on in preparation for the big day and even get to sample some of the amazing food and drinks they’ve created and perfected using their chosen spirit.
The lucky winner of the competition will get some amazing prizes that will benefit the team at the restaurant, with features in CLASS Magazine, bespoke bar kits, and first-class butchery courses all up for grabs.
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Edrington UK will also be taking five of the winning accounts front of house staff through WSET Level 1 in Spirits.
All the restaurants taking part will get to make valuable connections and build long-lasting relationships with Edrington UK’s committed customers too.
CREATE kicks off at 9am on Wednesday 20 October at Hilltop Country House.
Featured Image – The Manc Group
Food & Drink
A dozen major new openings coming to Greater Manchester and beyond in 2025
Thomas Melia
GreaterManchester is already bursting at the seams with wonderful restaurants, shops and buildings, but surely we always have room to squeeze in more new openings each year.
As 2024 comes to a close we can celebrate some incredible Manc wins like, getting our own Jellycat store in Selfridges or the innovative K-beauty store, Pureseoul, which landed in Manchester Arndale in November.
2024 also saw the St John’s neighbourhood take shape, with openings like Fenix, Courts Club and Caravan well and truly up and running.
And of course, who could forget the launch of Co-op Live? The huge new arena has already hosted some seriously big names and there’s plenty more to come in 2025.
Manchester’s landscape is an ever-changing one and with the list below already STACKED (hint, hint), it’s safe to say it’s never a dull day for new openings in Manchester.
So here are all the major new launches you can get excited about in the year ahead.
Big new openings in Greater Manchester and beyond | 2025
1. Soho House – Old Granada Studios
The rooftop pool at White City House, the London equivalent.CGIs of Soho House Manchester.Arguably the mother of all new openings for Manchester in 2025. (Credit: Supplied)
It really is out with the old and in with the new, as luxury member’s club Soho House prepares to roost in the Old Granada Studios building.
Set to be a multi-storey hub featuring everything from restaurants to a rooftop pool, this extravagant destination is on track to be one of the most glamorous when it opens next year.
If you’re thinking of lying by the pool and taking an ‘Instagrammable moment’ stop right there! Soho House Manchester, much like its London counterpart, will have a strict no-phones policy, giving everyone complete privacy.
Its opening has been delayed several times over but it’s looking like 2025 will be Soho House’s year.
Alongside Soho House, this once booming TV news building is also welcoming some neighbours in the form of Mollie’s Motel, fit with a contemporary art collection and live music venue.
The Manchester site is trialling out a first for the Americana-inspired motel company as this is not only set to be their first city-centre location but also features studio suites, unlike their two other locations.
However, they aren’t losing all their authentic touches, this Manchester Mollie’s will have a classic diner stocking ‘New Yorker’ peanut butter and jelly pie.
Inside Chotto Matte, the new rooftop restaurant at Gary Neville’s St Michael’s development in Manchester. (Credit: Supplied)
A cross of Japanese and Peruvian delicacies, Chotto Matte is big on flavours and sophistication, with each guest treated to a ‘culinary journey’ through every dish they serve.
They really meant business with this restaurant as not only is it ‘high class’ it’s also high altitude, situated on the rooftop of Gary Neville’s St Michael’s development.
Not so much one of most exciting new openings in Greater Manchester but more a rebirth. (Credit: Oldham Coliseum)
Launching the careers of many of our favourite soap stars and breaking the hearts of many locals with its closure in 2023, Oldham Coliseum is ready to return to reign supreme once again.
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From Charlie Chaplin to Corrie greats like Bill Roache (Ken Barlow), this North West theatre has said hello to quite a few famous faces over the years.
After plans were announced not too long ago for a new multi-million pound but much smaller new site, it’s great to see this drama institution remain in its original and much-loved home instead, with a major refurbishment planned.
Opening in time for Christmas/Panto season 2025 – read more HERE.
5. Power Hall – Science and Industry Museum
The Light Lab at the Science and Industry Museum. (Credit: Science Museum Group)
Since 2019, this incredible part of Manchester’s Science and Industry Museum has been closed for restoration works and has been dearly missed by all visitors.
The plan for this renovation sees the Museum preserve its original historic elements while making way for new spaces for playing and learning in.
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There will also be a gantry crane connected to the Power Hall which towers an impressive 8 metres high and 72 metres wide, wow.
6. National Portrait Gallery Unframed – MediaCity, Salford
Two people looking at a portrait of Queen Elizabeth I at FRAMELESS Manchester. (Credit: FRAMELESS)
The London-based gallery is moving up North to create a ‘ground-breaking’ new experience which sees paintings in a completely new light, literally.
Some of the world’s most famous paintings are about to be brought to life in an immersive digital experience, in collaboration with FRAMELESS Creative.
The long-term partnership which will be based in Salford is bringing new art experiences to wider audiences via an all-new digital exhibition.
This site will be designed around an expansive open plaza which will house a large stage, perfect for all varieties of family-friendly events and shows.
This Oxford Road hotspot is bringing a much-loved concept for visitors and locals alike combining street food with live entertainment and bars, a perfect city centre attraction.
Treehouse Hotel has confirmed details of its first Manchester restaurant, and a new summer opening date. (Credit: Supplied)
Nothing like a bit of shrubbery to break up the grey-scale skyscraper landscape of Manchester and this next new opening has taken it to the next level.
If there’s one thing ‘Treehouse Hotel’ is doing well it’s branding, from the restaurant titled ‘Pip’ to the decked-out green interior and exterior, this place is a nature lover’s paradise and will majorly transform a building that’s been a bit of an eyesore for years.
Making its grand arrival to the massive hotel scene in Manchester, their website seems to hint at a Spring launch with rooms bookable from April onwards.
A CGI mock-up of what the latest space will look like. (Credit: Supplied)
Get ready to make way for a Yorkshire favourite as next up on this list is the highly-anticipated launch of The Cut and Craft.
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The steak and seafood specialists will be opening their first site in Manchester and North West as a whole in the spring – this being their third location to date after the OG spot in York and the second site in Leeds, which our Hoot team vouches for wholeheartedly.
With a grand former banking hall being renovated for the new premises over on the corner of Mosley and New York Street, you can expect high-end ingredients turned into gourmet goodness. We’re talking freshly-shucked oysters, caviar; beef tartare, king scallops, fish and chips, steaks and so much more.
Undouvtedly one of the most talked about new openings in all of Greater Manchester. (Credit: Supplied)
From two football stadiums to Victoria Baths, a Grade II-listed swimming pool, Manchester has a lot to say for itself, even more so with Stockport Pyramid, a Northern landmark which is soon to double as an Indian restaurant.
This iconic symbol of Stockport is about to undergo a miraculous transformation into an Indian restaurant and banquet hall, perfect for all foodies SK1 or further afield.
11. More Terminal 2 additions – Manchester Airport
Credit: Supplied
Yes, we know a lot of T2’s large-scale refurbishment has already been completed over the past couple of years, but with the second and final phase of the update already well underway, there’s still a lot more to come in 2025.
Set to be completed by the end of the year, there are still various new shops bars, and restaurants due to open in the coming months – another 22, to be more specific.
A total of £1.3 billion has been pumped into this much-needed and long-awaited renovation and once all is said and done, it will benefit roughly 80% of all passengers travelling in and out of Manchester airport. Maybe 2025 is the year it gets off to a real flyer.
12. Chester Zoo Lodges – Cheshire
A mock-up illustration of the planned safari lodges. (Credit: Supplied)
And finally, we couldn’t forget our neighbours just down the road. From a green space-themed hotel to a lodge that sees you face to face with all kinds of different animals, 2025 is making us all be at one with nature, and none of us are complaining.
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There will be four different styles of lodges all inspired by and themed around traditional timber African safari lodges, with the first plans submitted in 2022.
Some of these incredible new staycation suites overlook a refreshing lake while others are set next to an enclosure full of free-roaming giraffes.
January 2025 deals, discounts and offers at Manchester restaurants and bars
Danny Jones
It’s January again – and that means a whole raft of fantastic deals, discounts and offers at bars and restaurants across Manchester.
Whether you’re in the mood for some birria tacos or have a real case for sushi, what better way to sweeten the deal than a terrific discount paired with it.
There’s pretty much no need to pay full price anywhere in town over the coming months, with prices slashed across the city and deals galore all over Manchester.
We’ve gone hunting all over town to find you the biggest and tastiest bargains out there.
Read on for all the January deals you need to know about in Manchester in 2025.
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The best January food and drink deals in Greater Manchester
Piccadilly
Food at Beeswing. Credit: The Manc GroupMadre in Manchester has a great deal for January 2025
Zambrero – Piccadilly Gardens
What is it: Mexican food chain started in Australia, serving up burritos, naked bowls, snacks and more.
The deal: £10 meal deal which includes a burrito, drink and a side of tortilla chips for just £10. On offer all throughout the month and available at their new location on Cross Street as well.
Beeswing – Kampus
What is it: A charming wine bar tucked upstairs at Kampus, that serves brilliant tapas dishes, and charcuterie boards.
The deal: 50% off food all day every day excluding 3pm-close on Saturdays.
Madre – Kampus
What is it: The city’s favourite Mexican joint, serving fantastic tacos, burritos, meats, margs, and loads more, in a beautiful leafy space off Kampus.
The deal: 50% off tacos, Sunday to Thursday.
Lock 84 – Ducie Street
What is it: A sleek new canal-side restaurant and bar within the new The Reach at Piccadilly Hotel, serving an innovative menu showcasing some of Manchester’s best independent producers, such as Worker Bee Coffee, BrewTea, The Salford Rum Company, and Seven Brothers.
The deal: 50% off food and drink, every day from the All Day Menu. Bookings must be made in advance HERE.
Ducie Street Warehouse – Ducie Street
What is it: A HUGE space that’s as popular for laptop-surfers as it is for a great cocktail before a night out, plus there’s a full evening menu that celebrates social dining.
The deal: 50% off food on the evening menu, every Tuesday to Friday from 5pm to 9pm.
Spinningfields / St John’s
Premium sashimi at Sexy Fish ManchesterTattu in Manchester has announced its January 2025 offer
The Trading Route – Goods Yard
What is it: A brand-new beer hall and rotisserie chicken restaurant, from the teams behind Trof, Manchester Union Lager and The Wandering Palate.
The deal: 50% off chicken and all food, Sunday to Thursday, throughout January when you book online.
Sexy Fish – Spinningfields
What is it: The high-end Asian restaurant that started out in Mayfair before making its way to Manchester, serving up top-quality sushi, sashimi, seafood, and other Japanese-inspired dishes.
The deal: A £28 two-course all-day set menu throughout January (usually £48). You can book HERE.
Tattu – Spinningfields
What is it: This sleek restaurant provides Mancs with a chance to experience modern Chinese cuisine in a luxurious dining setting.
The deal: 30% off food only from 2 January to 31 January, excluding Friday evenings and Saturdays. This offer accommodates up to eight guests and can only be used via this booking link HERE.
Banyan, Spinningfields and Corn Exchange
What is it: One of those Manchester venues that caters for everyone with a diverse all-day dining menu and great deals on cocktails, even when it’s not January.
The deal: 10 different dishes for just £10 all month long, including pad Thai, Korean fried chicken burgers, and chicken shawarma flatbreads.
Central
Tampopo Manchester has announced its January 2025 dealMaray in Manchester has loads of vegan and vegetarian options. Credit: The Manc Group
Almost Famous – Great Northern Warehouse
What is it: The OG dirty burger gaff in Manchester which started out in the Northern Quarter and has gone on to build a real empire. Big portions, crazy combos, creative cocktails, great desserts and more.
The deal: 50% off all burgers, meaning you can grab one of the options for as little as £6. All month long barring Saturdays. Available at Great Northern and NQ. Book HERE.
El Gato Negro– King Street
What is it: One of the best tapas restaurants in Manchester, started by chef Simon Shaw, serving up authentic tapas and Spanish small plates.
The deal:Three tapas dishes for £20 all day Sunday-Thursday and 12-4pm every Friday all month long. You can reserve a table HERE.
Maray – Lincoln Square
What is it: Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and North African-influenced restaurant specialising in small plates, sharers and more, including some of the best vegetarian and vegan food in town.
The deal: ‘Green January’ – 50% off all vegetarian and vegan Monday-Thursdaythroughout January (desserts and drinks not included). Available now for tables of up to 7.
Black Cat Club – King Street
What is it: Activity bar and social food spot from the same team behind El Gato, serving up fantastic sharing food, drinks and cocktails, as well as live sport, music and DJs.
The deal: £5 food and drink on selected items – crispy cauliflower, chicken bites and margarita cocktails – to be enjoyed alongside interactive shuffleboard or Flyby Darts. Book in now.
Tampopo – Albert Square and Corn Exchange
What is it: A long-standing South East-Asian restaurant loved for its street food-inspired small plates, curries and noodles, spanning Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and beyond.
The deal: 30% off small plates all day every day throughout January.
The Alchemist – New York Street, Spinningfields, and MediaCity
What is it: A decades-old cocktail bar where every drink is presented like a science experiment – also serves brunches, lunches, dinner and small plates.
The deal: 20% off cocktails and 25% off food when you sign up to their 20/25 sale HERE.
King Street Townhouse – Booth Street
What is it: One of the city’s very best boutique hotels, with a charming and traditional tavern and tearoom space on the ground floor.
The deal: A January set menu available 12pm-6.30pm daily, with two courses for £28 or three for £33.
Rajdoot – Albert Square
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What is it: One of the city’s oldest restaurants, Rajdoot is a family-run spot proudly serving authentic North Indian curries since 1966.
The deal: 30% off the entire food bill when using the code JAN30 upon booking – available Tuesday to Thursday until 30 January (groups of six or less).
Society – Barbirolli Square
What is it: A brilliant street food hall home to a burger joint, pizzeria, Korean street food and more, with LOADS of beer taps thanks to its partnership with Vocation Brewery.
The deal: 7″ pizza and a side for £10 at Noi Quattro, Monday to Friday, 12pm to 3pm; Burger and fries for £12.50 at Slap and Pickle, Monday to Thursday; Chicken or vegan katsu special for £10 at Manzoku, 12pm to 3pm every day; Korean fried chicken lunch deal with fried Mandu dumplings from Yoki Social for £13.99.
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Ancoats
Canto in Manchester has discounts and deals on its tapas in January 2025Indian Affair in Ancoats, Manchester also has a deal for January 2025
Canto– Cutting Room Square
What is it: Popular Mediterranean tapas bar and social dining space in the heart of one of Manchester’s trendiest neighbourhoods.
The deal: The usual ‘Tipsy Tapas’ returns on Fridays and Saturdays as per usual – priced at £40 per person for three dishes and a mix and match of drinks for 90 minutes – as well as 30% off all food items and sangria all day Tuesday-Thursday throughout January.
Ancoats Deli – Murray Street
What is it: Neighbourhood delicatessen, cafe and bar located down a cosy little cobbled side street in the heart of Ancoats. Fresh, seasonal and artisanal produce, baked goods, sundries as well as excellent wine.
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The deal: £5 wine from 5-7pm on Wednesdays and Saturdays – perfect to pair with cheese plates.
Indian Affair – Blossoms Street
What is it: The second site opened by the cherished Chorlton curry house and modern Dilli-style food spot. North Indian dishes cooked to the very best standard here in Manchester.
The deal: 25% off the entire food menu, Sunday-Thursday, from 5 to 30 January – available at both locations. Book HERE.
Elnecot – Cutting Room Square
What is it: A brilliant little brunch spot (and dinner, and lunch, and drinks, and a bit of everything really) that’s one of the original and best Ancoats restaurants.
The deal: 30% off your total bill throughout January, Monday to Saturday, when you book in advance and use the code JANUARY30.
Northern Quarter
Super Awesome Deluxe has announced its January 2025 deals. Credit: The Manc GroupNell’s Pizza at Kampus and in the Northern Quarter
Smithfield Social, Thomas Street
What is it: A popular, casual little spot from morning (brunches and coffees) til night (great cocktails and small plates).
The deal: 50% off the all-day menu Monday to Friday, 12pm til 9pm – book HERE.
New Century – Sadler’s Yard
What is it: One of the city’s newest (and coolest) food halls, with some great local names in the kitchens and a retro gig venue upstairs.
The deal: 25% of your entire bill when you book Wednesday to Friday, plus a happy hour all month with £4 house lager and £5 Guinness.
Boogalu – Tariff Street
What is it: A cool little taco, tapas and cocktail spot, with entire platters of different birria tacos and loads more vibrant Mexican bites.
The deal: 50% off food throughout January, plus £7 cocktails on Monday to Thursday.
Birria Brothers – Oldham Street
What is it: A proper outrageous Birria-style taco joint that moved in with Koffee Pot last year.
The deal: 25% off Monday to Thursday in January.
Chakalaka– Oldham Street
What is it: South African bar and kitchen, famous for its Happy Hour, big portions, weekly discounts and all-around good vibes.
The deal: 50% off mains from open till close Sunday to Thursday from 2-31 January. Happy Hour (two cocktails for £11 between 4 and 7pm on Tuesdays) – is also extended from Mon-Thurs. Book HERE.
Rewind NQ– Oldham Street
What is it: Late-night bar formerly known as Blockbusters and themed around the famous video store. Great tunes too.
The deal: Happy Hour for full opening hours from Wednesday to Sunday: 2 for £11 on cocktails, £6 frozen cocktails, 2 for £9 on all house pints, £10 Prosecco, bottles of wine for £19 and mix and match on three bottles of beer. £2 hot dogs too.
Nell’s at Common – Edge Street
What is it: A beloved Manchester-born and bred New York-style pizza brand serving slices and full pies from one of the best bars in all of NQ.
The deal: Half-price pizza when you book in at any Nell’s location (Common, Kampus, The Beagle and their new site in Altrincham). Available Sunday-Thursday for the whole of January.
Super Awesome Deluxe – Thomas Street
What is it: Manchester’s newest burger joint by the team behind Almost Famous, only this time they’re serving up just three highly-perfected smashed patty recipes.
The deal: 25% off all three burger options throughout January (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays).
Wilson’s Social – Oldham Street
What is it: An approachable and sizeable neighbourhood bar and restaurant that stands on the corner in the heart of the Northern Quarter.
The deal: 50% off food throughout January (2 – 31 January), every day, but must pre-book HERE or via email.
Deansgate
Blacklock is one of the biggest and best openings in Manchester of 2024. Credit: The Manc GroupMedlock Canteen in Manchester has big deals for January 2025.
Hawksmoor – Deansgate
What is it: A brilliant steak restaurant with top-notch service, which is frequently named the best restaurant in Manchester.
The deal: Rump steak and a side for £19.50, with five sides to choose from – available Monday to Thursday, 12pm-3pm and 5pm-6pm; and Fridays and Saturdays, 12pm-3pm.
Medlock Canteen – Deansgate Square
What is it: One of 2024’s best new openings, Medlock Canteen is inspired by both American diners and Parisian bistros – it has its own rotisserie chicken oven and a menu stuffed with delicious bites and great breakfasts.
The deal: 50% off, Monday to Thursday.
Blacklock – Peter Street
What is it: One of Manchester’s newest and most luxurious steak and chop houses, straight from its award-winning, multi-site success in London.
The deal: ‘Butcher Price Mondays’ will see customers able to enjoy prime cuts of meat like porterhouse, prime rib steaks and more for the same price you would pay at your local butcher’s. Booking recommended.
Dishoom – Bridge Street
What is it: Unquestionably one of the best Indian restaurants in all of Greater Manchester, serving up classic Bombay comfort food and elevated modern takes on traditional dishes.
The deal: Free breakfast naans for anyone who dines in the afternoon or evening. You’ll be given a voucher after your meal which can be used between 8am-11:45am from Monday to Friday throughout January. You can book for next month now.
Rosa’s Thai, Deansgate
What is it: A solid little Thai restaurant on Deansgate, serving authentic takes on curries, rice dishes and noodles from across Thailand.
The deal: A free homemade Thai iced drink (other drink options available) when you order one of their spicy three-chilli dishes.
Manahatta, Deansgate
What is it:A glitzy little bar and restaurant famed for its boozy brunches, all inspired by (you guessed it) Manhattan.
The deal: 50% off food when you pre-book to dine, available Sunday to Friday throughout January.
Oxford Road
House of Fu in Manchester has loads of January 2025 deals.Bundobust is giving away 2500 ‘Lunch Express’ meals. Credit: The Manc Group
Bundobust – St. James
What is it: A fully fledged veggie eatery serving up some traditional Indian cuisine that really packs a punch. Bundo is always a good call.
The deal: Bundobust are giving away 2500 free ‘Lunch Express’ dishes this January with the main batch of free food going to the first 100 people queuing outside the restaurant across all locations in Manchester, Leeds and Liverpool. Then from 7 until 31 January, there will be 25 free lunch spots every weekday to get your hands on.
House of Fu – Portland Street
What is it: Big bowls of ramen and noodles, delicious small plates, plus great frozen cocktails and karaoke rooms, all in a colourful two-storey spot in the heart of town.
The deal: £10 ramen and rice bowls, 11.30am – 6.30pm Monday to Friday, plus loads of giveaways including a trip to Tokyo (scratch cards handed out every time you dine).
Zouk – Chester Street
What is it: Comfortably one of Manchester’s best and most popular Indian restaurants, famed for its traditional Indian and Pakistani grill dishes and curries.
The deal: Loads of free prizes – every diner will spin the wheel of fortune to win things like free curries, discounts, drinks and mystery prizes. Available when dining 12pm-7pm on weekdays in January.
Hello Oriental – Circle Square
What is it: A super stylish, underground pan-Asian food hall serving up absolutely tonnes of options, from fried chicken, pho and bao buns, to sushi, dim sum, street food favourites and more.
The deal: 20% off across the entire menu throughout the month and starting from as early as 27 December for Hello Oriental subscribers. You can sign up for the exclusive discount HERE. They’re also opening a new venue in the Trafford Centre mid-Jan, so you can make the most of it there too.
Victoria
The Real Greek – Corn Exchange
What it is: Exactly what it says on the tin, it’s a Greek restaurant bringing flavours of Greece and eastern Mediterranean cuisine – yum.
The deal: In honour of ‘Veganuary’, this establishment are treating diners to their ‘Vegan Plate’ for only £12 this month starting from 1 January until 31 January. Perfect for vegans and anyone partaking in the meat-free month challenge.
Emily Sergeant -
19th October 2021 
