Greater Manchester’s newest neighborhood cafe is far from a greasy spoon

The team behind a beloved pub near the city center have just opened a new neighborhood cafe that aims to be more than just a greasy spoon.

Leo and Roobs, located next to The Black Friar pub, will serve a selection of modern brunch dishes, including steak and eggs and homemade crumpets, alongside a range of artisan coffees and pastries, seven days a week.

The cafe, located on Garden Lane, which is off Salford’s Blackfriars Road and a short walk from Deansgate, aims to satisfy the need for good food and a cool atmosphere. Named after owner Neil Burke’s two children, he says the venue will bring something new to the area.

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“We’re not a greasy spoon,” Neil tells her Manchester Evening News. “I want to keep it simple but interesting. We try to stay away from big breakfasts – we try to strike a balance between healthy options and comfort food.”

Menu highlights include Turkish Eggs, made from farm-raised eggs with garlic yogurt, harissa and served on thick bread, and the Leo’s Stack – a take on a popular fast-food breakfast sandwich consisting of a square bun, american. cheese, egg and tomato chutney served in a freshly made crumpet.

The menu, which ranges from £5 to £15 and eggs, also includes peanut butter on toast, acai bowls, hanger steak, salads, grain bowls, wraps and sandwiches – including a “posh” shrimp and avocado sandwich. Another standout, according to Neil, is the cheesy beans on crumpet, with house baked beans and smoked cheddar.

“We’re trying to not only up our game, but also up the game on what people expect from a coffee shop,” explains Neil. “There’s not much here.

“I noticed a lack of cafes and places to visit in the area. Everyone here goes to Deansgate for breakfast, so it feels like people are really looking for that here.”

Apart from the good food, Neil hopes things will separate Leo and Roobs from the others – such as handmade bowls and cutlery, made from a local designer in Islington Mill.

“I couldn’t find the right plates so we decided to make our own,” reveals Neil. There are also handleless coffee mugs to make customers feel more at home and add a “cozy” feel to the surroundings.

There’s also a designated coffee window where people can order drinks and food in advance via an app and collect their food to go. Outdoor seating, with space for up to 60 people, is also available when the weather hits the spot.

Housed in a former lettings agency, the cafe says it uses local and artisanal produce, such as bread, cakes and brownies, all made on site. Neil hopes the cafe will help make a positive impact on the area, like the Black Friar pub he took over three years ago.

Under his ownership, the pub, which dates back to 1886, has had a major £1.4m refurbishment and received major awards, including a rave review from food critic Jay Rayner.

“We opened the pub three years ago and a real concern at first was that there was no one here,” explained Neil. “The constant worry back then was how we were ever going to fill the space. It was a slow start but we stayed up and made a name for ourselves.

“Now, I feel the area is booming. There’s a lot of excitement here with all the apartments coming in – which means I’m seeing more and more people moving here.”

Over time, it is also hoped that the venue will host special themed nights and events, adding to the appeal of residents living in the area. “We try to be the best we can be,” adds Neil.

“I can’t help but feel that you have to keep evolving and moving if you want to keep going. People are still spending money, they’re just more discerning about where they go – and you have to be aware of which ones.”

Leo & Roobs is at Unit 1, 2 Garden Lane, Salford, M3 7FJ. Open 7.30am to 4pm weekdays and 9am to 4pm weekends.