Finders Keepers

Looking for waterside drinks in what may or may not be the UK’s coolest district (depending on which newspaper you read/trust/acknowledge)? Call the search off — Finders Keepers has got you covered. Located in the redeveloped and thriving New Islington Marina, a calm corner of super-hip Ancoats, this neighbourhood bar specialises in luxury pours, sophisticated serves and a very warm welcome. All the better on those warm spring, summer and early-autumn days when the area really comes into its own. 

First and foremost, then, the refreshments. Finders Keepers does cocktails like very few other spots do. Or at least very few other spots we know of. Pairing mixology with the time of year, standout ingredients have included vanilla ice cream, ginger infused foam, cardamom agave, date soju, and clementine. Plenty to tantalise the taste buds, other creations involve mulled cranberry and poached pear juice, evergreen martinis, salted caramel Irish coffee, and pomegranate sours. 

Of course, a bar wouldn’t be a bar without claret, verde, and blush. The wine list at Finders Keepers is small but perfectly formed, with new and old world well represented. But you’re also likely to unearth rarer treats. The Bedoba Saperavi we had last time, from Kahkheti, Georgia, was a case in point. And we could have probably drunk a full case — proof, if it were needed, that the Caucasus is one of the unsung viticulture heroes. Meanwhile, drought beers run from imported upmarket heavyweight lagers to Manchester, northern and UK craft options, and you’ll find an excellent spirit cabinet for neats and mixers. Finally, there’s no formal kitchen here at the moment, but the bar snacks are great, and Manc pizza icon Nell’s is available to order in if you’re hiring the place out privately. Oh, and the Hours of Happiness — or happy hours — are 3-6pM Wednesday through Friday.