We tried out the massive new food hall at Salford Quays and two things make it stand out from the competition

A new food hall opened on Thursday night at Salford Quays, boasting 20 food and drink vendors, as well as a large outdoor terrace overlooking the water, Old Trafford and MediaCity.

The VIP launch night of Kargo MKT and the Central Bay development took place on Thursday 14 September, and we were lucky enough to get an invite, sampling the food on offer, taking a look around the 2,000 sq ft venue, and enjoying some entertainment from DJs and a live samba band.

We got to sample char siu pork and dumplings from Wong Dumplings, a fusion take on fish and chips from Super Fry Guys, passion fruit tea from Boba Cha, and dosa and chutneys from Rottu Kadai Dosa, to name but a few.

There are so many of these food hall venues in Greater Manchester now that it’s almost overwhelming. In the city centre alone there is Mackie Mayor, Society, GRUM, Freight Island, and the Arndale Market. However, there are two things that distinguish Kargo from the others.

Firstly, the size and scope of the venue. With 20 kitchens under one roof, it has much more to offer in terms of food and drink, bringing together cuisines from around the world and, more importantly, much-loved independent businesses from across the Greater Manchester region.

The line-up includes local favourites from Worsley’s Leopard Pie pizzas to Chorlton’s Jerk Junction. It was also great to House of Habesha there as well, the Ethiopian and Eritrean food spot that was one of the food traders recently given one month to vacate their first home at Hatch, which closes for good at the end of the month. Another personal favourite of mine, Ad Maiora, specialists in schiacciata sandwiches, also have a spot at Central Bay, having previously operated out of a dark kitchen in a Northern Quarter flat.

Secondly, and probably the biggest selling point in my opinion, is the location. This is the only food hall with a waterside terrace  – although, Society does also overlook the small basin outside the Bridgewater Hall. This may not be ideal for the fast-approaching autumn and winter months, but nothing a couple of patio heaters and some extra awning couldn’t sort out perhaps.

It will be interesting to see how this opening will impact the rest of the area, namely Quayside, formerly the Lowry Outlet mall, in which Central Bay is located. Anyone who has visited recently will know that it’s not exactly a shopping destination to rival the likes of the Arndale or the Trafford Centre. It’s often very quiet, it has an unusual selection of shops and a rather depressing food court. Maybe Quayside will benefit from the increased footfall thanks to Central Bay, which will also see inevitable rush on match days (you can see Old Trafford from Kargo MKT).

There is more to come from the Central Bay at Salford Quays, including the 11 Central microbrewery and bar, a joint venture from Seven Bro7hers brewery and Four Sisters gin distillery, due to open this autumn. But in the meantime, Kargo has already launched a program of events, for both adults and children, starting with the opening weekend.

What’s on at Central Bay?

On Friday 15 September, 7-11pm, hip hop and R&B DJ LORDZDJ will be taking over the decks and entertaining the crowds. And on Sunday 17 September, 10am-12pm, Central Bay is hosting a Mermaid Princess Mini Disco, complete with photo opportunities, singing, games (including pass the parcel), magical wishes and disco dancing. Both events are free to attend.

Outside of this weekend, the venue will also be offering pop-up events, indie markets, live music performances and recreation space for children. More information can be found on the Central Bay website.