In 2008 nightlife in Manchester lost a big one. Writing for The Guardian at the time, Luke Bainbridge lamented the passion of Electric Chair, labelling the monthly “the best club night in the country”. Plugged-in by Luke and Justin Unabomber circa 1995, the raucous party ran for 13 years, moving from The Roadhouse to Music Box before bowing out in a hail of cargo netting torn from the ceiling (those who know will know), soulful and deep house music, alt-club jazz, soul, funk, hip hop, electro and a touch of Detroit techno. It has been missed ever since, but the masterminds behind the session haven’t disappeared. Electrik, one of our city’s most beloved bars, is just one part of their living legacy.
Proud to be “an independent café bar nestled in suburban Chorlton”, this perennially popular spot continues what the owners started three decades ago. A place to come for laidback, down-to-earth drinking, by day and on midweek evenings the vibe is wonderfully chilled. Especially if you’re here when the sun shines and it’s possible to make full use of the not-so-“secret” beer garden out back: one of our favourite places for a pint in this part of town. Inside doesn’t let the side down, mind, with large and very comfortable booths and a prevailing dark wood aesthetic.
Visit at the weekend, and things take a turn for the busier, rowdier and party-er. Electrik regularly hosts DJs, turntable tastemakers and selectors, spanning rare groove, disco, broken beat and so much more. Of course, none of this would make any sense without an amazing selection of drinks, with international, domestic and local beers on tap and cask, or bottled, alongside an expansive selection of wines and spirits, some of which are used for the exclusive and classic cocktails the bar is also well-known for. Finally, on any given day you’ll find Happy Hours, pizza by the slice, and a warm welcome for dogs. So, what’s not to like?
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