Saki provides a welcome alternative from the standard bars in the surrounding area. Head inside for a bar that provides band and club nights without the need for a trip into the city centre.

The Venue
Located at the Whitworth Park end of the Curry Mile, and advertised with a large neon sign, obligatory for this area of Manchester, it’s easy to locate. The shisha smoking area is a large seated area, which is covered on two sides and heated. The size of the seating area sets it apart from its counterparts, providing a large shisha venue capable of holding around fifty people. The bar may be slightly cramped when filled to capacity but the furniture is comfortable and invites you to settle down and spend a happy few hours sampling the various flavoured tobaccos and drinks on offer.

Inside is a large drinking space, decorated with twinkling lights in the ceiling and original art on the walls. There is ample space for bands and a plenty of seating with the dance area towards the door.

The People
The crowd at Saki is mixed; you’ll find an assortment of locals, young and old, with a scattering of students. The exposure this bar has from its location means that it is always quite busy during the evening, so get down early to bag a table. Also, keep an eye out for the club nights down here. You can get everything from heavyweight jungle to indie bands.

The Food
If you’re peckish then tuck in to some beautifully nutty, gooey baklava, which is generously portioned and costs £1.50. However, the service is slow and once you have placed your order you many wonder if it’s been forgotten about due to the length of time it takes to arrive at your table.

The Drink
All pipes are priced at £5, with a member of staff regularly topping up the charcoal, one pipe can last a table for several hours. They also have an offer of a pipe and a pint for £6 which no doubt attracts the penny-scrimping students. Pints of Fosters are £2.80 and Carling £2.50. A glass of red Cuvee Rousson costs just £2.20. Hot drinks are reasonably priced at £1.50 for a pot of Egyptian mint tea or a coffee.

The Last Word
Saki is a great bar and a welcome relief from the monotony of pubs in a heavily student populated area. As a newbie, expect to be shown how to smoke the shisha from the experienced and friendly regulars. The speed of service lets this bar down, unless you’re ordering a standard lager, the drinks can be hit and miss, but its all part of the Saki experience.