To Be Frank is a bar in Northern Quarter, Manchester. Rated 4.7 stars from 96 Google reviews. Known for staff warmth and bartender quality and cocktail craft. Best for night out with friends and cocktails.
Rankings updated August 2026
To Be Frank
| Rating | 4.7★ |
| Reviews | 96 |
| Best for | Night out with friends |
Quick Verdict
A high-energy Northern Quarter bar where exceptional bartenders and a fun atmosphere make every visit memorable.
You want a vibrant night out where the bartenders genuinely make you feel welcome and the drinks are expertly made.
About To Be Frank
To Be Frank sits at the heart of Northern Quarter's night-out culture, commanding a 4.7-star rating across 96 reviews—placing it second only to Wholesome Junkies in the zone's hotlist. The bar thrives on an infectious, energetic atmosphere that regulars describe as "always the best vibe", anchored by staff who turn a busy night into a genuinely welcoming experience. Bartenders like Reece have become synonymous with the venue's appeal, consistently going above and beyond to craft memorable drinks and make guests feel valued even during peak hours. The venue balances a lively, fun-loving crowd with thoughtful service—a rare combination in a neighbourhood where bars often sacrifice one for the other. Reviewers highlight both the quality of cocktails and the calibre of hospitality, with the team upstairs and downstairs maintaining consistent standards. It's the kind of place where the staff's personality becomes part of the draw, transforming a night out into something more than just drinks.
What Stands Out
Staff warmth and bartender quality
Multiple 5-star reviews single out bartender Reece for going 'above and beyond' and being 'so welcoming and friendly', with guests noting staff 'always make it even better'.
Cocktail craft
Reviewers consistently praise 'great drinks' and 'lovely cocktails', with bartenders described as making 'really lovely drinks'.
Atmosphere and vibe
Guests describe it as 'always the best vibe' with a 'cool atmosphere', capturing the infectious energy that defines the venue's appeal.
Practical Information
Contact
10 Hilton St, Manchester M1 1JF, United Kingdom
Frequently Asked Questions about To Be Frank
Yes—it's known for its lively, fun atmosphere and welcoming staff who make groups feel valued. The venue thrives on social energy and is a popular choice for weekend nights in Northern Quarter.
Reviewers consistently praise the cocktail quality, with bartenders known for crafting 'really lovely drinks'. Staff take care to make each drink memorable, even during busy periods.
Service is a standout feature, with bartenders going above and beyond to welcome guests. Staff maintain consistent standards across both upstairs and downstairs bars, even when busy.
The atmosphere is electric and fun-loving, described by regulars as 'always the best vibe'. It's a high-energy venue where the staff's personality amplifies the social experience.
Also in Northern Quarter
View all16 venues changed rank in Northern Quarter in the latest ranking → See full zone ranking
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Rankings are recalculated monthly from live Google Business Profile data. Our Hot Score weighs review velocity (new text reviews), baseline rating, and Google Business Profile completeness. No editorial picks, no paid placements — just what the data says this month.
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