The Lost Dene - Manchester - Pub Reviews

Name: Lost Dene

Location: 144 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EE

Phone: 0161 839 9035

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Thursday: 10:30 AM - 11:00 PM

• Friday to Saturday: 10:30 AM - 1:00 AM

• Sunday: 10:30 AM - 11:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.0)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No dedicated parking, street parking may be available nearby.

• Darts & Pool Table: No, the focus is on live sports rather than games like darts or pool.

• Live Sports: Yes, the pub is well-known for its extensive sports coverage, with big screens visible from almost every angle.

Food on Offer:

The Lost Dene offers a traditional pub food menu with popular dishes like fish and chips, burgers, and Sunday roasts. It provides a comfortable mix of classic British pub fare, perfect for casual dining while watching a game or enjoying an evening out with friends. The portions are generous, and the menu caters to a broad audience with vegetarian options available.

Beers on Tap:

The pub features a good range of regular ales, including:

• Caledonian Deuchars IPA – A Scottish ale known for its balanced bitterness and refreshing citrus notes.

• Courage Directors – A classic English pale ale with malty sweetness and a hint of caramel.

• Morland Old Speckled Hen – A well-known smooth ale, creamy with a slightly nutty finish.

• Shepherd Neame Spitfire – A Kentish ale, earthy and hoppy, with a distinctive dry finish.

Price Range:

££ - The Lost Dene offers mid-range prices typical for a city centre pub. Expect to pay around £4 to £6 for a pint, while meals range from £10 to £15.

Customer Service:

Overall, the service at the Lost Dene is praised for being friendly and efficient, even during busy match days. Staff are knowledgeable about the drinks menu and eager to help with recommendations. There are occasional mentions of slower service during peak sports events, but this is to be expected given the pub's popularity for game-day gatherings.

Events & Special Nights:

The Lost Dene does not host regular quiz nights or live music events, focusing instead on its strength as a premier venue for watching sports. Football is a big draw, with the venue attracting fans of Manchester's local teams, creating a vibrant atmosphere on match days.

In-Depth Review:

The Lost Dene, situated prominently on Deansgate in Manchester, is a quintessential city centre pub that holds a special place for sports enthusiasts. A former Hog’s Head, the pub underwent a rebranding in 2011, but its character remains tied to its legacy as a lively venue for social gatherings. Its spacious, open-plan interior makes it an ideal choice for groups, particularly those looking to catch the latest football match or other sporting events on the multiple large screens that dominate the space.

The clientele at the Lost Dene is diverse, with a noticeable emphasis on sports fans, particularly football supporters who are drawn to its numerous TVs and laid-back atmosphere. Families are welcome during the day, with children allowed in until early evening, making it a family-friendly choice until the post-work crowd arrives. Later in the day, it shifts to a more adult crowd, with young professionals, local regulars, and tourists creating a mixed and welcoming environment.

The overall vibe of the Lost Dene can be described as casual and lively. It’s a no-frills pub, where the focus is on good times, hearty food, and affordable drinks. This is not the place for a quiet pint in a cosy corner, but rather a bustling hub where you can cheer on your favourite team or enjoy a catch-up with friends. The recent refurbishments have freshened up the space without losing its traditional pub roots, maintaining a balance between a classic and modern British pub feel.

Accessibility is good, with the venue providing step-free entry, and it caters to diverse needs with a welcoming stance towards families and even dogs. There's outdoor seating, ideal for the warmer months, although it's not a main highlight given the pub’s emphasis on sports and indoor dining.

One of the pub’s strengths is its reliable selection of well-kept ales, featuring both well-known and local brews. It’s clear that the Lost Dene maintains a high standard for its beer offerings, and regulars appreciate the consistency. Prices are reasonable for a city-centre pub, providing good value for money, especially considering its location on a bustling Manchester street.

On the food front, the pub does a commendable job of offering classic British pub dishes. The menu might not surprise you, but it certainly won’t disappoint if you’re in the mood for familiar, comforting favourites. The portions are hearty, and there's a good range of options to suit different tastes, from traditional fish and chips to lighter, vegetarian-friendly dishes.

If there’s room for improvement, it might be in the speed of service during peak sports events. The bar can become crowded, and waits might be a little longer, but the atmosphere remains positive thanks to the attentive and friendly staff.

In summary, the Lost Dene is a solid choice for anyone seeking a lively, sports-focused pub experience in the heart of Manchester. It’s not a hidden gem but a reliable go-to for locals and visitors alike. If you’re in the area and looking for a place to relax with a pint, catch the latest match, or enjoy some traditional pub grub, the Lost Dene won’t let you down.