Sterling is a cocktail bar in Spinningfields, Manchester. Rated 4.6 stars from 196 Google reviews. Known for cocktail programme and atmosphere and design. Best for date nights and work celebrations.
Rankings updated August 2026
STERLING
| Rating | 4.6★ |
| Reviews | 196 |
| Best for | Date nights |
Quick Verdict
A theatrical basement cocktail bar with exceptional drinks, live music, and staff who know their craft—Manchester's closest thing to a New York speakeasy.
You want to feel like you've stepped into a speakeasy and don't mind paying for craft cocktails made with rare spirits.
About STERLING
Sterling is a basement cocktail bar housed in the Stock Exchange Hotel's historic vault, where classic New York elegance meets Manchester grit. The space—accessed via unassuming steps and an old iron safe door—feels like a hidden speakeasy: dim lighting, intimate booths, and a quietly confident vibe that invites lingering. The cocktail programme is the centrepiece: bartenders work with a fantastic range of vintage spirits to craft drinks that reviewers consistently describe as "some of the best I've ever had". Live music—a pianist and vocalist, or acoustic sets—anchors the atmosphere without overwhelming conversation. The wine list is curated with care (recent pours include Railsback Frères Cuvée Chloe Syrah), and even the lemonade is made fresh. Staff are notably knowledgeable, personable, and unhurried; they take time to make each visit feel special. Across 192 reviews, Sterling maintains a 4.6 rating, with the vast majority praising the cocktails, service, and the theatrical experience of descending into a historic underground space.
What Stands Out
Cocktail programme
Reviewers describe cocktails as 'some of the best I've ever had', made from a 'fantastic range of vintage spirits'; specific drinks like Pink Thistle and Lava Flow rated 10/10.
Atmosphere and design
Historic basement vault in Stock Exchange Hotel with dim lighting, intimate booths, and theatrical entry via old iron safe door creates a 'hidden speakeasy' feel that reviewers describe as 'quietly confident' and conducive to hours of lingering.
Staff knowledge and service
Consistently praised as 'incredibly knowledgeable', 'personable', 'very very knowledgeable', and unhurried; staff take time to make guests feel special and are 'easy to chat to'.
Practical Information
Contact
Frequently Asked Questions about STERLING
The bar sources a fantastic range of vintage spirits and bartenders craft each drink with care and expertise. Reviewers consistently rate individual cocktails 10/10, and staff are highly knowledgeable about the menu and happy to guide you through options.
Yes. The intimate basement setting with dim lighting, live music, and classy atmosphere is frequently mentioned as perfect for dates. The theatrical entry via the old safe door and speakeasy vibe add to the occasion.
Yes. The bar regularly features live pianists, vocalists, and acoustic performers. Reviewers praise the quality of the music and how it enhances the atmosphere without overwhelming conversation.
It's intentionally hidden: accessed via unassuming basement steps and an old iron safe door in the Stock Exchange Hotel. This 'speakeasy' feel is part of the appeal, though once you know where it is, it's straightforward to locate.
Sterling maintains a curated wine list featuring quality bottles. Recent selections include Railsback Frères Cuvée Chloe Syrah. Reviewers describe it as 'excellent' and note the staff can guide you through pairings.
Also in Spinningfields
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