I should perhaps give this 3 and half stars but I can’t seem to dissect one the star rating. This was once a majestic independent bar on Manchester’s drinking den ley lines. Unfortunately, like many others, it succumbed to the bigger industry and thus was sold off. It almost looks the same, but never really captured that special original Atlas bar feel. Opening Deansgate locks close by I guess didn’t help and as such it’s more geared towards that crowd these days.
However, it’s still a good looking, well planned out bar and the beer garden (slightly Mediterranean ramshackle as it is) is still one of my favourites in town. Drinking late in the summer evenings (hopefully they’re about to start come August) is a pleasure. The times I’ve been in here there’s always been a good crowd - mid week is usually better than weekends as they take on a whole different character by then.
Decent enough choice of beers and liqueurs but not, for me, the same quality as mere metres across the street at the Knott Bar.
Fine bar but never really captured it’s glory days.

Dull, soulless, overpriced - I’ve been here a couple of times and didn’t enjoy it on either occasion - one time I was sat with a friend at a table near the bar when a barman audibly burped near us, he didn’t apologise or even acknowledge it, he just walked off.

The other time I was there with a group of people after a staff night out and they were playing the most generic house music I have ever heard - I can recognise a good DJ when I hear one and this guy wasn’t it, he seemed to be the only person enjoying the music, we couldn’t wait to get out of there.

It’s a shame really coz this place has prime position at the end of Deansgate near the locks and could be so much better with just a few minor touches (better music/DJ/bar staff, the terrace could do with a refurb too). Avoid….

Having been to this bar in the past month I thought I'd chuck in a review. I don't often go to places this smart/upmarket but I was impressed with the food and the assortment of spirits. There is plenty of seating room and a pleasant atmosphere, when I was in there it was not uncommon for random people to start conversations with strangers. Saw Mr Scruff there too.

One of the places to pioneer the bar culture in manchester, this place has been around a while. However it has a lot to offer - its still stylish after all these years, and it has one of the best beer gardens in Manchester, a cool enclosed 2-level terrace area where BBQs are held on weekends. The drinks are average city centre prices, the food is pretty good for bar food, but the laid-back atmosphere is what makes it hard to leave.

Great bar just off Deansgate. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff are friendly. The music is mainly house and is a good place to go before a gig. They also have a big terrace if you eant to smoke. Recommended