Erst
Quick Verdict
Erst offers a reliably good small plates experience with a great wine list in a stylish Ancoats setting.
Book if you want a relaxed, small plates meal with a good glass of wine in a trendy atmosphere.
Skip if you're after a quick, budget-friendly meal or a traditional, large-portion dining experience.
About Erst
Erst is a Modern European restaurant and wine bar located in Ancoats, Manchester, at 9 Murray Street. With a solid 4.8-star rating based on over 700 reviews, it's clearly doing something right. It's open Tuesday to Saturday, from 1 PM to 10:30 PM, but closed on Mondays and Sundays. The place aims for a casual-yet-upscale vibe, managing to feel both cozy and trendy at the same time. It's wheelchair accessible, covering both entrance and seating. The menu focuses on small plates, so plan on ordering a few things to share. It's got a full bar with beer, cocktails, wine, and hard liquor, plus coffee if you need a pick-me-up. They offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery. There's also outdoor seating for when the Manchester weather cooperates.
Honest Assessment
Strengths
Wine Selection
The 'Great wine list' highlight and wine bar categorization point to a curated and interesting selection.
Atmosphere
Erst manages to be casual, cozy, romantic, trendy, and upscale all at once, according to Google, which is quite a feat.
Desserts and Coffee
The 'Great dessert' and 'Great coffee' highlights suggest a strong finish to your meal or a nice spot for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Considerations
Limited Opening Hours
Closed on Mondays and Sundays. This can be limiting if you're planning a weekend or early-week visit.
Price Point
The 'Upscale' atmosphere and focus on small plates suggest it might be a more expensive option than other restaurants in the area, especially if you're ordering multiple dishes to share.
We share honest assessments including weaknesses because we believe transparency builds trust.
Signature Dishes
Burrata with Seasonal Vegetables
£14Creamy burrata served with a rotating selection of fresh, seasonal vegetables and a light vinaigrette.
Grilled Octopus with Potatoes and Chorizo
£18Tender grilled octopus paired with crispy potatoes, spicy chorizo, and a smoky paprika aioli.
Chocolate and Hazelnut Tart
£9Rich chocolate tart with a hazelnut frangipane filling, served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Prices may vary. Based on our last verified menu data.
Practical Information
Frequently Asked Questions about Erst
They have healthy options, so it's likely they can accommodate some dietary needs. It's best to call ahead to confirm.
Parking in Ancoats can be tricky. Public transportation or ride-sharing is recommended.
It is best to call ahead, but it is unlikely seating will be guaranteed.
FAQ content is structured for rich search results.
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