Having been involved in a number of top spots around Manchester — Proove, Public, Madre, to name but three — the stars aligned and a group of hospitality veterans put their heads together. Inspired by trips to New York City’s West Village and the thriving DIY and independent food and cultural scenes in Athens, Greece, they came up with a simple plan: create a new casual dining den that’s accessible, delicious, and known for high standards. The Last Stop opened in spring 2024, and soon became a firm favourite in the Heatons.
“We’ve strived to curate a menu that’s affordable, without sacrificing quality,” the team explain. “On the food front, we’ve sourced locally to support suppliers in the area. All our meats come from our friends at Littlewood’s butchers, just minutes from our front door, and our vegan potato buns are made at The Bread Factory in Manchester. Everything is prepared here fresh, daily, including our sauces and marinades — the thing that separates an average from astounding gyros or burger.
“Whether it’s a home-made seitan alternative on the gyros front; an intricately crafted cauliflower steak burger; or a four patty smashed bacon cheese burger, all bases are covered,” they continue. “Our drinks menu is similarly impressive, staying loyal to local brewers, friends and suppliers such as Indigo Coffee for the morning run, and a fresh pastry; or Shindigger and Seven Brothers for a few beers at lunch. Our cocktail menu stays focused on undisputed classics, but reaches just far enough to keep things interesting and refreshing”. Plenty to go at during happy hour then, when you get two drinks for £15 between 4pm and 6pm, or a more committed shift at the bar, where you’ll find a Romanian Pinot Grigio Rose undisputed champion of The Last Stop’s wine list. A clue as to how interesting the selection gets, Spanish reds and Italian whites are also in abundance, if you prefer something more traditional.