Could the Black Friar pub in Salford actually rise from the ashes? It has done just that. It is a gem amongst giants. Today we will explore this historic pub. We will discover how it has been resurrected. It now stands bigger and better than ever.
The Black Friar was built in 1886. But it lay derelict for over 15 years. A fire gutted its interior. It seemed destined for demolition. But thankfully an extensive refurbishment in 2021 brought harmony between old and new. The Black Friar welcomes everyone. It offers something for all tastes.
This unique, independently owned pub is more than meets the eye. It has risen from decay to become a symbol of hope. In the front half of the pub, you can enjoy traditional pints. You can also grab quick bites in a cozy atmosphere. At the rear, a modern restaurant awaits. Here, you can dine á la carte. The grand Glass Room provides a unique setting.
The Black Friar boasts a beautiful beer garden. It is filled with comfy sofas and bistro tables. The award-winning outdoor Tavern is perfect for soaking up the sun. Miracles do happen. The Black Friar has two menus. One features pub classics like pies and fish and chips. The other offers a modern take on British food.
Neil Burke, a local restaurateur, now steers The Black Friar. He wants it to have a significant impact on Salford. He wants it to be everyone’s local. He envisions it as a destination. It is a place where you are guaranteed good food and a welcoming atmosphere. You should feel at home nipping in for a pint. You can also enjoy a fantastic three-course dinner.
The pub became a symbol of hope after a £1.4 million refurbishment. This allowed the Salford pub to rise from the ashes of two fires. These fires had left it in a dire state. The revamp is very impressive. The Black Friar now catches the eye of national critics. Jay Rayner gave it a rave review in The Guardian.
Inside, a log stove warms a traditional cozy front room. The hearth surround is latticed with green tiling. This evokes the spirit of the city’s fellow surviving old boozers. Enticing armchairs suggest the prospect of a wee dram. You could enjoy a newspaper and a snooze.
The Black Friar is split into several guises. There is a cosy snug with a roaring fire. There is a modern gastro dining restaurant. You can find the choir sanctuary upstairs. A gorgeous plant-laden glass atrium awaits you. There is also a suntrap veranda outside.
Neil Burke explained his vision. He took on the pub in January 2021. At that time it had sat derelict for years, damaged by fire. They aimed to do something different. They didn’t just want to be another square box restaurant.
Neil also focused on how things looked. Because of their “weird” location by a main road in Salford, it was vital to present things well. This would ensure word of mouth and social media spread the good word about The Black Friar.
The diversity of The Black Friar’s experience makes it perfect for many occasions. You can pop in for a pint. You can have a hearty meal. You can celebrate your Grandpa’s 80th. It is a very versatile venue. It has great food to warm your soul.
So, as the wise words carved above the door say… you may go further, and fare worse. The Black Friar welcomes you. It offers a unique experience in a historic setting.