Sandbar Manchester
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Opening Hours
About
A local favourite near the university, this spot is known for its extensive selection of real ales, craft beers and ciders, including vegan and gluten-free options. The bar features a rotating lineup of local brews, such as Brightside, alongside a notable whiskey collection. It’s a cashless venue with a focus on sustainability, often showcasing live music and local artwork. Recognised in the Good Beer Guide and awarded for its craft beer selection, it’s a place where the drinks take centre stage.
Customer Reviews
An unassuming building from the outside, but we all know what happens when you assume… Sandbar is a great pub tucked away behind just off Oxford road on the way into the city centre. There is a great selection of beers (particularly several different Weissbiers, of which options are usually absent or in a best case scenario limited in other establishments) There are gluten free and non alcoholic options available, as well as vegan bar snacks. Food is available, with a good selection of pizzas at reasonable prices. I didn’t have the food today but on previous visits I’ve enjoyed it. There is plenty of seating in various alcoves and different rooms, allowing for quieter options if you’re in the post-work rush and looking to wind down in a relaxing environment talking to one or two friends. The toilets are clean, and clearly regularly monitored for soap and toilet roll. Been coming here for a while and will be coming much more im sure!
Called in during the mid afternoon weekday lull. The cask ale was fine, all options are pretty local but nothing to get too excited about. Back in the Good Beer Guide for 2026.
Great spot for always having at least one gluten free beer on tap, usually a couple. I'm a big fan of when they've got locals like Brightside. Generally a good atmosphere whenever I come. Sometimes a lot busier than others, probably event related as it's very close to a number of live venues. That said, I can often find a seat in the second, quieter room pictured below. I would appreciate GF food options, but I understand this is exceptionally difficult considering they do pizzas. The music is almost never particularly loud, which means you can always converse. The only setback would be that some of the beers can be pricey, but this is absolutely to be expected given they are quality craft beers rather than mass products, and I say this is one of the few spots where it's worth it
