Cult Manchester cocktail bar The Font closes its doors for good

Raise a glass to The Font Manchester, which closed its doors for the final time on Saturday 7 January.
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Popular cocktail bar The Font announced it was shutting for good last week and fans have taken to social media to show their appreciation for the Manchester institution – in particular its legendary £2 cocktails.

The Font announced the sad news in a Twitter thread on Friday 6 January, explaining that the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and the cost of living crisis had taken “insurmountable toll” on the bar and they would be closing for the last time the following night.

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The bar, located on Whitworth Street off Oxford Road, enjoyed a 22-year run in the heart of the city centre, becoming a go-to spot for generations of students,due to its location among university buildings and accommodation, as well as its cheap cocktails.

The Font social media post said: “With sorrowful hearts we regret to announce The Font Manchester is closing for business.

“Unfortunately the impact of COVID, followed by the cost of living crisis has taken an insurmountable toll and while this is tough news for sure, we feel comforted by the memories of the last 22 years and the countless awesome times we’ve had here! Thank you, thank you, thank you to all our staff, customers and friends past & present, your support has meant the world.”

Customers have been posting their favourite memories from The Font in response to the post. Among them are many people who had been coming to the bar since it first opened in the nineties. David Hamer tweeted: “My favourite place to eat in Manchester. 4 amazing years at university eating and drinking in The Font. Trips back to Manchester will never be quite the same again!!”

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Facebook user Olivia Devine said: “Very fond memories of numerous birthdays spent here! I had my 21st at Font and enjoyed working through the £2 cocktail menu on more nights than I could count, or remember. Always a brilliant place to drink.”

Tim Griffiths also commented on Facebook: “Been going in here since early 2000s when I did my art foundation degree. Had many a great night here. Sometimes it was the start of the night, the whole night or even just having a relax and a quiet pint or cocktail when attending Manchester Punkfest. Font is the place responsible for where I first met my wife on our very first date. Another Manchester gem lost but I’m sure never forgotten. So long Font and thanks for the wonderful times and memories.”

The bar opened for one last time on Saturday 7 January for a farewell party. In another post published after the event, The Font wrote: “From the first dates, classic nights out, pre gig drinks, friendships made, countless hugs & laughter, all the ways Font meant something to you guys has been so warming to read, thank you so much for sharing!  Keep meeting up, find a new spot, support one another, we love ya!”

Luckily for fans of the bar, The Font Chorlton will remain open.