A neat little bar servicing the residents of the far end of Castlefield (or Hulme depending on which way your compass is pointing), what Binary lacks in character it certainly makes up for in the entertainment stakes.

The Venue
Situated beneath the architecturally impressive MoHo apartment building, in the nether reaches of Castlefield, from the outside Binary does its best to distinguish itself from the myriad of estate agents servicing the area with its tables and chairs for al fresco eating and drinking, and a sandwich board advertising the bar's current promotions.

On the inside, Binary's aubergine colour scheme can make it appear fairly gloomy, even during the day, and its typically contemporary interior doesn't really set it apart from numerous other bars in Manchester. However, in terms of amenities, Binary certainly has it right. It has Sky Sports available on a (very) big screen, and will nearly always show the football, or, if you ask nicely, even the rugby. For those uninterested in its live sport offering, Binary also boasts free wi-fi and even a Wii and an Xbox 360 hooked up to another large TV screen in a snug area out the back. In addition, the bar often runs themed evenings, such as movie nights, quiz nights and events appropriate to the time of year.

The People
Binary's clientele tends to consist of the residents of the surrounding apartment buildings, mostly twenty-something professionals out for a post-work or pre-night out drink. While it can get a little rowdy at times (especially when there's a United or England match on), for the most part the drinkers of Binary tend to be a laid-back bunch.

The Drink
With a distinct focus on bottled beer, wine and spirits rather than draught beer, Binary at least eschews the most commonly found selection on tap by offering both Heineken and Birra Moretti at a reasonable £2.95 per pint. Binary also runs a happy hour promotion on selected cocktails and bottled beers between 5pm–9pm, Monday to Saturday, and all day Sunday. This allows bargain-hunters the chance to snaffle a couple of bottles of San Miguel, Magners Stella and Peroni for £2.95.

The Food
Binary's food offering runs the gamut from light snacks, such as salads (£4–£5) and baguettes (£3.50; £4.50 with chunky chips), to more hearty British classics such as sausage and mash (£6.49), steak and ale pie and fish and chips (both £6.99). The bar also does a good trade in its various pizzas (£4.50 for a Margherita, £6 for all others), which are also available for take-out before 11pm.

The Last Word
Whilst its relatively obscure, out-of-town location may limit opportunities to visit Binary, it's definitely worth checking out if you're in the area.

venue information venue map view manchester review add a review