Tucked away on Old Bank Street just off St Ann Square, Yards Store stock products that have a story behind them, brands that need little introduction to people who love top-tier craftsmanship and prodigious design.
Back open this week, the shop is fully restocked with new brands including Asics, New Balance, Snow Peak and, in our first Top 5 post lockdown, the Yards Store boys expertly guide us through a perfectly executed mooch around the shops. Summary: eat, drink, shop, repeat…
1.Pollen Bakery
Where is it? Cotton Field Wharf, 8 New Union St, Manchester M4 6FQ
What is it? Pollen is an independent bakery that has quickly become incredibly popular with all Mancunion folk. Founded in 2016, the bakery outgrew its original location at the back of Piccadilly train station in just two years, with its Ancoats location now boasting a much-needed sit down space.
Why is it on our list? Everything that Pollen makes is special, but it is the iconic Cruffin we would recommend making a visit for. A Croissant/Muffin hybrid that tastes as good as it sounds, with a new flavour usually introduced on a weekly basis.
2. Pot Kettle Black (PKB)
Where is it? Barton Arcade, Deansgate, M3 2BW
What is it? Based only a stone’s throw from us, PKB is an Antipodean inspired coffee house. It is a great meeting place, with a laid-back atmosphere and an amazing level of detail in everything that they do. A combination of the finest coffee and easy-going, wholesome food makes any day a better one in our opinion.
Why is it on our list? All the coffee is spot on, but their flat white is different class. If that was not enough in itself, any egg-based dishes they offer are just the ticket.
3. Deadstock General Store / Bindle Store (Online)
Where is it? 48 Edge St, Manchester M4 1HN & Online at www.bindlestore.com
What is it? Deadstock General Store stocks an eclectic range of goods that you will want in your life. Ranging from stationery, homeware and much in between, you will never be stuck for a gift again. If you want to whet the appetite, check out their Instagram. They do an amazing job of it.
Why is it on the list? We are big fans of terrariums, and Deadstock offer the finest going from Green Factory. The Paris based brand make incredibly sophisticated self-watering terrariums, which are essentially miniature rain forests. Just note, get down to the store quicky, as they always sell out in no time.
4. The Little Yeti
Where is it? 495 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton, Manchester M21 8AG
What is it? The Little Yeti is an authentic Nepalese Street food restaurant, which offers classics with a contemporary twist. It is based in a small venue on the busy Barlow Moor Road, and always boasts an incredibly warm atmosphere.
Why is it on the list? One word, Momo’s. They are the main attraction from The Little Yeti, and the Nepalese favourites can be either steamed or fried to your liking. If that was not enough, a can of Shindigger Mango Unchained is a good enough reason to visit in itself.
5. Soup Kitchen
Where is it? 31-33 Spear Street Stevenson Square, Manchester M1 1DF England
What is it? Soup Kitchen is a laid-back bar/cafe on the ground floor and a loveable and homely all night basement music venue downstairs. Soup Kitchen is a great alternative to some of the bigger and brasher venues in Manchester and is a real favourite of everyone at Yards Store.
Why is it on the list? Soup Kitchen is on the list as it is one of the first places we want to celebrate when long awaited normality returns. Music, mates and beer is something that we all deserve.
Yards Store, 13 Old Bank Street, M2 7PE, is open Monday to Friday 9.30 to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 6pm and Sunday 11am to 5pm
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