First it was coronavirus lockdowns, now the cost of living crisis and soaring energy prices are threatening the future of the city’s hospitality industry.
Last week, the Campaign for Real Ale, a pub and brewery consumer group, warned that if pubs were to increase prices at the same rate as energy prices, then the average pint could end up costing £15-20 – deterring customers and crippling the industry.
Some places have managed to stay afloat during these difficult times, but some have not been so lucky.
Here’s a reminder of just some of the city centre’s popular watering holes that have closed their doors in the last few years.
If you have a favourite that you miss, send us your memories of it on our Facebook page here.
1. Apotheca
Apotheca was known for its creative cocktails and underground passage to neighbouring pizza restaurant Dough. They both left the Northern Quarter in 2020, having originally opened in 2008. Credit: Google Street View
2. Albert Square Chop House
Located in the Grade II-listed Memorial Hall building on Albert Square, this historic pub closed in July 2021 and recently reopened as the Fountain House bar and restaurant. Credit: Google Street View
3. Waxy O’Connors
The Printworks lost its popular Irish bar during lockdown after almost 20 years. Credit: Google Street View
4. Dry Bar
Dry Bar on Oldham St closed in 2017 and has yet to be replaced. It was founded in 1989 by Factory Records and welcomed some of the city's most-loved music icons, including Oasis and Happy Mondays, through its doors. Credit: Google Street View