Popular city venue prepares for opening as premium gastropub

Iconic Manchester venue, The Memorial Hall, will reopen as a premium gastropub, ‘The Fountain House’ on November 11, named as a nod to the stunning Victorian fountain opposite which was also designed by the building’s architect, Thomas Worthington.

Brought to the city by The Metropolitan Pub Company, The Fountain House is located over three floors of the Grade II-listed building, nestled in Albert Square, and will create 40 jobs.

Following a complete refurbishment, the owners say the new destination will provide a chic, yet charming pub atmosphere, and premium dining experience.

Complementing its food and drink offering, the upper floors of The Fountain House will be available to host bespoke, tailor-made events, from weddings to private dining events.

The Fountain House is the first Northern site for The Metropolitan Pub Company, which largely operates in London and across Southern England.

The acquisition of the former Albert Square Chop House represents a bold step for the brand as it expands and bring its premium offering to like-minded guests across the country.

The Metropolitan Pub Company said The Fountain House will combine classic British pub culture and cuisine with a quality wine and cask ale experience.

To ensure the new site retains its heritage and Mancunian spirit, experienced Manchester-based hospitality manager, Lawrence Hallows, has been appointed to oversee the transition.

A former team member at The Albert’s Square Chop House, Lawrence has worked at the site since 2014 in multiple roles at every level of the business.

Having recently seen the venue pass through the challenge of COVID-19, sales manager Lawrence believes now is the perfect time for the Metropolitan Pub Company to help reignite the iconic sites offering. He said: “It’s no secret that lockdown has fundamentally changed eating and drinking habits for customers. Now restrictions have eased, people tend to go out less often, but spend more when they do go out, to make the most of the experience.

“The location of The Fountain House, right in the centre of Manchester’s business district and focal point of the town hall, tells you everything you need to know about its potential.

“Local city workers, tourists and premium weekend drinkers are all looking for a high quality space with an equally outstanding food and drink offering, and that’s what The Fountain House will provide.”

Michael Horan, managing director of Metropolitan Pub Company, said: “We are really excited to bring our first pub to Manchester. The Memorial Hall site is perfect, as it will allow us to team our premium gastropub experience to customers in the heart of the city.”