Don't rock up to Mr Cooper’s House & Garden in search of a garden or, er, a guy called Mr Cooper... although do check the tree bringing a spot of botanical bling to the centre of the room. This is actually restaurant territory, baby. Not only that, but it's got a pretty impressive name behind it - Simon Rogan, off Fera at Claridge's and L'Enclume fame. He's a big deal chef who likes to keep it local when it comes to ingredients, so don't arrive expecting the exotic. What you will get is a sophisticated dining experience of specially sourced treats, with a bar to match. Sounds good to us. 

The place itself is named after a coach builder & philanthropist whose house and gardens occupied the site that is now the king of Manchester hotels, The Midland. Accessed from the side of the hotel, look out for the flame torches which guide you into this impressive bar. Don’t worry about dressing up, as grand as it might be, the atmosphere is pretty chilled. We took our time with the menu; the bar team here make their own syrups and infusions and work closely with the kitchen to source ingredients. The classic cocktails are all executed to perfection, and just ask the bar if you want something experimental whipped up. They also have a banging selection of gin to sink into should the mood take you. Not feeling spirits? There's a fine selection of beers and bottled craft ales alongside a good choice of wines. Mr Cooper’s is grown up and we like it.