It’s hard to believe, but Schofield’s – the bar founded by brothers Daniel and Joe Schofield – is turning five. In that time, it’s gone from fledgling cocktail spot (carved out of a pub once owned by Liz Dawn from Coronation Street, The Old Grapes, no less) to being named the best cocktail bar in the UK.
It’s a dazzling achievement.
To celebrate, they’re planning a very special evening indeed. On Sunday 1 March, the team will be joined by friends from the legendary Harry’s Bar in Paris, including fourth generation owner Franz MacElhone, for an evening that connects Manchester to one of the most important addresses in cocktail history.
Founded in 1911, Harry’s Bar is widely regarded as the oldest cocktail bar in Europe and the birthplace of some of the world’s most enduring drinks. The Bloody Mary (imagine!), the Boulevardier, the French 75, the Sidecar and the Blue Lagoon, drinks which are the stuff of cocktail lore, all trace their roots back to its legendary bar top, shaping how cocktails are mixed and enjoyed across the globe.
From 5pm to 9pm, Franz and the Harry’s team will take over Schofield’s, serving a menu of their signature cocktails and sharing the traditions, techniques and assured confidence that has kept the bar relevant for more than a century.
Earlier in the day, Schofield’s will be open for normal service from 12pm until 3pm, before closing briefly to reset ahead of the evening celebrations. A limited number of reservations are available through the website, with remaining space kept for walk-ins on a first come, first served basis.
It’s a fitting way to mark five years for a bar that has quietly set the standard in Manchester, surrounded by friends, great drinks and a shared love of proper hospitality and proper service.
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