Matt & Phreds

Few venues capture Manchester’s musical soul quite like Matt & Phreds. Tucked away on Tib Street, this long-standing jazz club has earned cult status among locals and touring musicians alike – a place where world-class players, good food, and the city’s unmistakable energy come together under one dimly lit roof.

The story began decades ago with two musicians, Matt and Phred, who set out to create a space dedicated to live jazz. Years later, when the Turner family took the reins, they kept the spirit alive – preserving the venue’s warm, unpretentious charm while turning it into one of the city’s most beloved haunts. Today, Matt & Phreds remains a cornerstone of Manchester’s music scene, with gigs six nights a week spanning jazz, funk, folk, swing, and the occasional touch of ska. On any given night, you might catch a young local quartet finding its rhythm, or a seasoned touring act shaking the walls with brass and soul.

The space itself is intimate and full of character: red walls, candlelit tables, and the steady hum of a crowd that’s come to listen, dance, or simply soak it all in.

Alongside the music, the bar serves up an impressive range of cocktails, craft beers, and wines, while the kitchen has built a quiet reputation for it’s pizza offering. Their famous happy hour – where buying two drinks gets you a free pizza – has become the stuff of legend.