The Smithfield Market Tavern - Manchester - Pub Reviews

We slipped into The Smithfield Market Tavern - Swan Street’s craft‑beer snug where Blackjack casks, board‑game banter and laid‑back Sunday tunes blend old‑market heritage with Northern Quarter cool - to taste what keeps this bohemian boozer buzzing.

Name: The Smithfield Market Tavern

Location: 37 Swan St., Northern Quarter, Manchester

Phone: +44 (0)161 819 5441

Opening Hours:

• Monday: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Tuesday: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Wednesday: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Thursday: 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM

• Friday: 2:00 PM – Midnight

• Saturday: Noon – Midnight

• Sunday: Noon – 11:00 PM

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5)

Facilities & Entertainment:

• Parking: No designated parking

• Darts & Pool Table: Yes, offers both; pool table available in a relaxed area with comfortable seating

• Live Sports: No focus on live sports; instead, features live music and other entertainment

Food on Offer:

The Smithfield Market Tavern has a limited but enticing food menu, showcasing locally sourced produce. You’ll find classic pub fare with a contemporary twist, including hearty pies, charcuterie boards, and rotating specials that cater to traditional pub-goers and modern palates alike. While it doesn't focus on a large food menu, the quality and freshness are noted highlights by patrons.

Beers on Tap:

The Smithfield Market Tavern serves a rotating selection of beers, often featuring six cask ales with a mix of Blackjack Brewery brews and guest ales. Blackjack staples include favourites like "Stout" and "Pale," while guest beers bring in seasonal varieties and innovative flavours from other microbreweries. For those more inclined towards lagers and craft beers, the tavern also provides 10 keg options, offering something for everyone, from novices to beer enthusiasts.

Price Range:

££ - Moderate. Drinks average around £5 per pint, with food prices reasonable for the quality offered. It's a comfortable spot for an affordable night out in a lively area.

Customer Service:

Visitors frequently mention the welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, particularly praising the team’s enthusiasm for the diverse beer selection. Service is described as attentive yet laid-back, creating a friendly and unpretentious environment. Occasional comments point out that service can slow down during peak times, though overall impressions are highly positive.

Events & Special Nights:

Live music sessions on Sundays are a weekly highlight, drawing in regulars and newcomers alike. These music nights cover an eclectic range of genres, from folk to blues, creating a cosy community vibe. Additionally, the pub occasionally hosts tasting events, which provide a great way to explore Blackjack Brewery’s latest creations and guest ales.

In-Depth Review:

Tucked away in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, The Smithfield Market Tavern blends the historical charm of its namesake with a modern approach to craft beer and community atmosphere. With roots dating back to serving the area’s original market workers, the pub has become a true Northern Quarter staple after Blackjack Brewery took the helm, bringing with it the unique craft and cask beer ethos for which the brewery is known.

The atmosphere here is warm and relaxed, making it a comfortable spot for a pint with friends or a solo drink while soaking in the laid-back vibes. The clientele is diverse, ranging from young professionals drawn to its craft offerings to locals who appreciate the blend of old and new. There’s a distinctly casual, bohemian charm that feels both nostalgic and fresh - a hallmark of many Northern Quarter pubs, but The Smithfield pulls it off with particular ease.

The layout and décor mix vintage elements with modern touches, including soft seating, board games, and an inviting outdoor area. Accessibility is thoughtfully considered, with ground-level entrances and seating suitable for different mobility needs. The pub is also dog-friendly, with water bowls provided, adding to its community appeal.

A must-try is one of the rotating Blackjack Brewery ales—especially recommended if you’re a fan of robust, full-bodied brews. The Sunday music nights are another local favourites, offering an ideal way to end the weekend with good company and live entertainment. Though the pub doesn’t focus on an extensive menu, the food available is consistently praised for its quality and well-prepared flavours.

The Smithfield Market Tavern strikes a fine balance between tradition and innovation, making it a standout choice among Manchester’s craft beer destinations. Whether you're there for a Sunday session with live music or just popping in to explore new brews, the Smithfield Market Tavern provides an authentically welcoming experience for locals and newcomers alike.

Reviewed by: Pub Reviews Team