11 Central: What to expect from the new Seven Bro7hers bar at Salford Quays - first look inside

Manchester now has its fair share of breweries, taprooms and craft ale pubs, but none of them are as successful as the Salford-based Seven Bro7hers. 

The family-run brewing empire has just opened its latest venture, 11 Central, a bar jointly run by the brothers and their (literal) sister company Four Sis4ers distillery, offering their combined full range of craft beers and gins. 

It is located within the brand new food, drink and entertainment venue Central Bay at Quayside mall, Salford Quays, which recently opened a massive 20-kitchen food hall Kargo, complete with a large outdoor terrace overlooking the water. 

When we reviewed Kargo’s opening a few months ago, we noted that these new developments look set to reinvigorate and bring some much-needed footfall to the dated shopping mall, and, judging by the bar’s lively launch night on Thursday 16 November, that may be the case. 

What to expect at 11 Central

The large open-plan bar is brightly coloured and modern, in keeping with the welcoming style that regulars at any of the existing Seven Bro7hers beerhouses will be familiar with. They have a range of seating, including booths and large tables, catering for parties of all sizes, as well as a stage for performances.

One of the more exciting additions that this new venue boasts, however, is the in-house distillery, where gin-lovers will be able to create and make their own dream gin concoctions using over 50 different botanicals. What’s more, you’ll be able to take a 70cl bottle of your creation home, and if you like what you make, you will also be able to order the same recipe again after the event. 

The premises also has its own microbrewery, which will be producing new beers exclusive to 11 Central. They will also be running their own beer school with opportunities to take part in these exclusive brews. 

Guests to the launch night were treated to a sample of some of the sophisticated yet hearty dishes on offer, including seared tuna and wasabi, and beetroot carpaccio and goats cheese for starters, followed by beef wellington and mash, and a chicken and black pudding terrine. 

We were also treated to a set from 11 Central’s new houseband, the Cafe Soul Collective, who played a varied selection of covers. If that performance was anything to go by, visitors are in for some fun with this lot – but hold on to your drinks because they seem to enjoy climbing on the tables. 

Our 11 Central verdict

Salford Quays and MediaCity have changed beyond recognition in the last few years and the area’s evolution is far from complete. With even more development plans in the works that would see MediaCity double in size, new openings like 11 Central are hopefully a positive sign of what’s to come. 

And it’s no surprise that Seven Bro7hers are at the forefront of Salford Quays’ transformation. Their personal connection to the area is central to their identity, evident in the fact that this is the fourth location in Salford alone. As with neighbouring Kargo, where the majority of the 20 kitchens are run by independent Manchester-based traders, it’s refreshing to see so many local businesses in one place – especially when so many of the other food and drink offerings in MediaCity are national franchises. 

With lots of fun had by both young and old at the launch night, 11 Central is sure to be a hit and well worth a visit – whether you’re just spending an afternoon wandering around the Quays or looking for a lively venue for some evening fun.