Veteran NQ bar Cottonopolis is to close after eight years – with owners planning to usher in a new brand and concept ‘in early 2024’.
The bar will shut its doors for a completely new fit-out, and a ‘new food and drink offering’.
Cottonopolis opened in 2015 in a grade II listed former textile warehouse, paying tribute to Manchester’s feted nickname, which emerged in the nineteenth century as the city was at the peak of its industrial output.
Since then, it has become known for its Asian-inspired food menu and cocktails, while owners Nick and Hayley Muir also own the Edinburgh Castle pub in Ancoats, taking on chef Shaun Moffat in recent years to head up both venues’ food offerings.
Director Nick Muir commented: “Cottonopolis has become known as a staple part of the Northern Quarter bar and restaurant scene, we believe we’ve reached the end of our journey in its current guise.
“It’s been great, we’ve thrown some great parties, hosted weddings and worked with fantastic brands but we want to do something just as fresh. Like when it first came onto the NQ scene. It feels like the right time to bring an exciting new concept.
“We’ve already been hard at work with our team behind the scenes to develop our next adventure, which will bring a new quality place to eat and drink to the NQ, with the same exceptional standards we’ve become known for at Edinburgh Castle.
“We’d like to thank all of our guests for their loyalty over the last eight years, and we’re looking forward to sharing the next part of our journey with you.”
There’s no date set for re-opening as yet. According to a spokesperson for the venue, ‘all staff have been communicated with and plans are in place’.
