The Black Friar - Manchester - Pub Reviews

With a menu curated by a top chef and one of the best beer gardens in Salford, The Black Friar is a pub I’ve recommended countless times. Here’s why it blends great food, character, and modern charm so well.

Name: The Black Friar
Location: 41-43 Blackfriars Road, Salford, Manchester, M3 7DB
Phone: 0161 667 9555

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No dedicated parking, but public parking nearby

• Darts & Pool Table: No

• Live Sports: Not a primary focus, but live events and music are occasionally featured in their outdoor space

Food on Offer:
The Black Friar serves a variety of British pub classics with an elevated twist. Standouts include their roast dinners, especially on Sundays, which feature dishes like Boddingtons-bottomless gravy with a mouth-watering pie. Seafood options, such as squid and prawns, and hearty dishes like cod loin with watercress mash, highlight their more sophisticated offerings. The menu is designed by Chef Ben Chaplin, showcasing the best of modern British cuisine. There are vegetarian options available, like a flavourful vegan curry​.

Beers on Tap:
The Black Friar has a well-curated selection of beers, focusing on local brews like Boddingtons and a variety of rotating craft beers. Wines and spirits are also available, including some creative gin cocktails.

Price Range:
The pub is in the mid-to-high price range (£££), with most meals averaging around £15–£25 per dish. It's considered good value for money given the quality of food and service.

Customer Service:
Service at The Black Friar is frequently praised. We'd like to highlight the staff's attentiveness and friendliness, with special mentions for staff members like Nicole, who provide a welcoming experience. Whether dining inside or outside, guests often describe the service as "discreet but perfect," with prompt and efficient care.

Events & Special Nights:
The Black Friar hosts seasonal pop-ups, such as the popular Winter Tavern, which creates a cosy, festive atmosphere with mulled drinks. Their outdoor beer garden can be hired for private events, and live music sometimes features during these occasions.

In-Depth Review:
The Black Friar stands out as a unique gem in Salford, offering both history and modernity in a beautifully restored pub. Its charm lies in the seamless blending of an old-school pub aesthetic with a more contemporary dining experience. With a variety of dining spaces— from the intimate indoor seating to the airy garden, there’s a spot for every mood. The garden, in particular, is a favourite among guests, described as a hidden oasis where you can unwind over a drink in the sun.

This pub attracts a mixed clientele, from families enjoying a Sunday roast to young professionals looking for a laid-back, elegant evening out. The presence of both classic pub fare and more refined dishes shows their range in appeal, catering to both casual diners and those looking for a more formal meal. The demographic skews toward a relaxed, somewhat upscale crowd, but the welcoming atmosphere makes it accessible to all.

In terms of accessibility, The Black Friar offers outdoor seating and is dog-friendly, making it ideal for those looking to enjoy a drink with their pet. However, some reviewers note the lack of dedicated parking, which may require a brief walk for those driving.

Local recommendations include their roast dinners and gin cocktails. While customer service is frequently praised, there’s room for improvement during peak times, where service can slow down slightly. Overall, The Black Friar's blend of a warm pub atmosphere, elevated menu, and lovely garden makes it a top choice in Salford for both locals and visitors alike.

Written by: Pub Reviews Team
Visit basis: Personal visits, food tastings and local feedback