If you ever find yourself on Manchester’s Canal Street make sure you set aside time to visit the little gem that is Oscars. Although centred around musicals, it manages to avoid being a tacky themed bar (although themed it is) and instead celebrates vintage Hollywood with all the class and panache of Gene Kelly himself.

Inside you’ll find staff who truly care about the drinks that they serve, their ingredients and the flavour combinations. Whilst there I had the privilege to sample a variety of drinks from their extensive cocktail menu. A particular favourite of mine was the Pomegranate Bloom made with Bloom gin and, of course, pomegranate. Many of their Bloom goblets were light and fruity and more than palatable even to people who don’t normally like gin – me included.  Ones to watch out for if you fall into that category include the Summer Bloom and the English Bloom. Also on the menu was a delightful Opihr cocktail with notes of cardamom, cumin and ginger and the Mary Pickford cocktail which will satisfy even the sweetest tooth. Less successful for me were the Moulin Rouge and the rather bland Folies Bergere.

Bloom Gin Cocktail

As for more traditional spirits, I recommend the West Rock rum mixed with Fentimans Ginger Ale. It was my favourite drink of the night and one that I will certainly be ordering again.

On the evening I was there, entertainment was provided by Paul Walker who sang  a selection of musical numbers from stage and screen. His choice of songs was spot on and his powerful voice and warm rapport with the crowd really added to the experience.

Oscars Bar Interior

I can’t recommend Oscars highly enough. A word of warning though – it’s a small room so if you’re planning on going on a Friday or Saturday you might want to get there early to nab a table. If people know what’s good for them then it’ll be very busy.