Part church, part fairground, wholly delicious, Red’s True Barbecue Restaurant & Bar in Manchester delivers the barbecue experience with an enthusiasm that borders on religious fervour. Owners James Douglas and Scott Munro are on a mission to spread the word about American slow’n’low style grilling, and having already converted Leeds to the truth with the first Red’s, now cross the Pennines in search of another flock.
Blacksheep design studio wanted to convey Douglas and Munro’s passion coupled with their sense of fun, so while the cooking is taken very seriously, and Red’s has some dark, blood red neon tinges to it, the atmosphere is marinated in a spicy sense of humour (the confessional toilet cubicles probably won’t go down a storm with the local Catholic minister but will get a smile from most) – albeit with a liberal helping of inspiration from the MEATliquor family. The kitchen is contained behind a wire mesh cage, offering diners a view of the “pitmasters” doing their thing. Aside from the main dining room there is a separate room for private bookings in an earthy outfit of burnt timber and upholstery. A feast for the senses. Hallelujah I have seen the meat!
