A new Mexican restaurant specialising in tacos, ceviche, mezcal and tequila cocktails is opening in Manchester.
Called Madre, it’s born out of a collaboration between the founders of London’s popular Breddos Tacos and the team behind Liverpool favourites Belzan and Filter + Fox, with a menu that features birria-style tacos dunked in gravy (well consomme, but this is Manchester so we’re calling it gravy).
Foodies who’ve spent any time at Escape To Freight Island will likely already know the brand and its excellent tacos from its residency there. Those who don’t are in for a treat.
Image: Madre
Now, owners are moving on up – taking on bigger premises of their own as they venture out to open their first full bar and restaurant in Manchester for the first time.
A proper mezcaleria and taqueria, it’s not going to be all hangover gravy tacos here – there will be some fresher, zesty dishes to get stuck into too.
Diners can expect to find more classic tacos loaded with the likes of Baja fish, fried chicken, halloumi and BBQ Yucatan pork, alongside small plates such as blistered peppers, salt-baked beetroot, nachos and roasted bone marrow.
Image: Madre
Image: Madre
As for drinks, think a solid margarita menu, mezcal cocktails like palomas and mezcal coladas, alongside red and rose sangria, a full wine list, bottled and draught beers and a decent selection of softs.
Inspired by the foodie culture of Mexico City, the new restaurant will also put a focus on ceviche – offering a selection of super fresh, zesty plates of the Peruvian raw citrus-cured fish favourite when Madre opens its doors later this year.
Foodies who’ve spent any time at Escape To Freight Island will likely already know the brand and its excellent tacos from its residency there. The new Manchester restaurant follows on from the success of the first Madre joint, opened in 2019 at Liverpool’s Albert Dock.
Now, owners are moving on up – taking on bigger premises of their own as they venture out to open their first full bar and restaurant in Manchester.
Located at garden rental neighbourhood Kampus, which borders the city’s famous Canal Street, the restaurant is pipped to open sometime this spring.
Madre at Kampus will open daily from 11am til late, evolving from a lunch spot and family-friendly destination to a buzzing bar with Mexican party vibes as the sun goes down.
Visitors can expect an interior inspired by the adobe houses of South America, with earthy, organic tones promising to create an intimate and warm space.
Image: Madre
Taking over a space in Minshull House, the restored Victorian warehouse, Madre will count brands including Cloudwater Brewery, Pollen bakery and Nell’s pizzeria amongst its neighbours.
Speaking on the new opening Chris Edwards, co-founder of Madre, said: “Madre is perfect for a party city like Manchester. Taquerias can be pretty raucous, social spaces but at the same time have a family feel, where people come together to share amazing food.
“We’ll be bringing that vibe to Kampus, with iconic favourites alongside a drinks menu stacked with margaritas, natural wine and local beer. Madre de-mystifies traditional Mexican food, serving up new plates made with top quality local produce and a love for authentic flavours.
“We knew we had to be part of Kampus, we love the heritage building and we’ll be in top company with the other independents signed up.”
Image: MadreImage: Madre
Manchester will be treated to a packed spring and summer as the neighbourhood comes to life, with pop-up events, exhibitions and operators opening their doors this year.
Adam Brady, of HBD, said: “Madre’s whole ethos is about social dining, an inviting space where friends and families can share stories as well as delicious food. They’re a perfect match for our growing family of independents.
“With more people calling Kampus home and a stacked summer of events and openings, 2022 is already looking like an epic year for the neighbourhood.”
Feature image – Madre
News
Manchester to fall silent today to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day
Emily Sergeant
Manchester will mark the 80th anniversary of Victory over Japan (VJ Day) with a poignant ceremony at the city’s Cenotaph today.
While VE Day in May 1945 signified the end of World War II in Europe, thousands of British, Commonwealth, and Allied troops continued to fight in Asia and the Pacific – but VJ Day, which was declared on 15 August 1945, brought a final end to the global conflict.
The day remains a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of those who fought for freedom, and Manchester‘s commemorations today will aim to honour their courage, resilience, and sacrifice.
The event will bring together veterans, civic leaders, cadets, and members of the public in a shared moment of reflection and gratitude.
This year’s commemorations in the city centre will begin at 11:50am.
15 August 1945 marked Victory over Japan.
Join us tomorrow at 11:40am at the Cenotaph to commemorate the 80th anniversary of WWII in the Far East and honour those who served🫡
A two minute silence will be held at 12 noon, marked by a maroon.
Commemorations will start with opening remarks from The Very Reverend Rogers Govender, followed by a solemn programme of remembrance.
The service will begin at 11:58am with The Exhortation recited by Brigadier AG Ross OBE, followed by The Last Post sounded by WO2 Nick Burroughs, and then at midday, a national two-minute silence will be observed – which will be marked by the firing of a maroon.
Brigadier Ross will then recite the Kohima Epitaph, leading into the wreath laying ceremony featuring cadets from the Manchester Trafalgar Unit Sea Cadets, and the Lord Mayor of Manchester.
The service will conclude with the singing of the National Anthem.
Manchester to fall silent today to mark 80th anniversary of VJ Day / Credit: Manchester City Council
Iconic buildings and landmarks in Manchester, including the Manchester Civic Quarter Heat Network (CQHN) tower, will illuminate their facades from 9pm tonight to honour VJ Day.
“Today, Manchester stands united in remembrance and respect,” commented Councillor Carmine Grimshaw, who is the Lord Mayor of Manchester. “The 80th anniversary of VJ Day is not only a tribute to those who served and sacrificed, but also a celebration of peace and resilience.
“Manchester’s commemorations today reflect the deep gratitude we hold for those who gave so much for the freedoms we have today.”
Featured Image – Manchester City Council
News
First look at Chester Zoo’s new luxury safari-style lodges where you can sleep amongst the animals
Emily Sergeant
The first look at Chester Zoo’s new luxury safari-style resort has been released to the public, and it looks stunning.
In case you missed it, artist impression images of the highly anticipated wildlife lodge experience at Chester Zoo, called The Reserve, were unveiled earlier this year ahead of its grand opening to the public this month following several years in the works… but now opening day is right around the corner, the first official images have been shared.
The Reserve at Chester Zoo features 51 beautifully-designed lodges, with some overlooking a private savannah where giraffes, zebras, and blesbok antelope roam free, while others are nestled beside a peaceful lake.
Guests can choose from a variety of different lodges to stay in, available for up to nine people.
The lodges have been crafted using natural and sustainable materials, with the décor being inspired by landscapes in Africa, and it’s already being described as ‘the ultimate African safari experience right here in the UK’.
Combining luxurious accommodation with exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the zoo’s world-renowned wildlife, Chester Zoo says the new resort is set to transform how travellers experience conservation in the UK.
Those behind the project say the innovative concept – where every stay directly-funds the protection of threatened species globally – will help to strengthen the zoo’s role as ‘one of the country’s most loved and most impactful conservation charities’.
Chester Zoo has given the first look at its new luxury safari-style lodges / Credit: Chester Zoo
“The Reserve at Chester Zoo is a game-changer, not just for luxury travel but for conservation,” commented Jamie Christon, who is the CEO at Chester Zoo.
“Born from our long-standing commitment to protecting African wildlife, we’ve created a truly immersive, safari-style experience right here in the UK, where guests may wake up to giraffes on their doorstep, enjoy unforgettable wildlife encounters and relax in beautifully designed lodges surrounded by nature.
“But what makes The Reserve truly unique is its purpose.
“Guests at The Reserve aren’t just going to enjoy a luxury break – they’re going to power our conservation movement for generations to come.”
Stays at the resort are now available to book online / Credit: Chester Zoo
In the off-season, prices for the lodges start from £375, while one-night stays in summer start from £672.50.
And then in peak season, for the more luxurious lodges, prices can go all the way up to £2,486, but it is worth noting, however, that this does include guided safari tours and going behind the scenes with the giraffes.
Georgina Pellant -
15th March 2022 
