We have to admit we were already fans of the Malmaison hotel chain long before we visited the Mal Manchester – it’s slinky, sexy and a little bit daring…just like us!
The Manchester hotel is located directly opposite the train station, perfect for dumping the bags and running. Inside the decor is typical of the Mal chain – dark lighting, velvet sofas, plush carpets and erotic photographs lining the walls. Service is efficient and friendly, when we arrived the room wasn’t yet ready so we left our luggage and hit the shops only to return and find our bags already in the room.
Our abode for the night was an Executive Double Room located on the fifth floor with King sized bed, TV, iPod docking station, desk, minibar, a selection of glossy mags, bathrobes and a big bathroom complete with bath (always a bonus), Arran Aromatic products and an rain shower.
Downstairs the hotel’s restaurant and bar is what makes it stand out from the other hotels in the group – recently refurbished and re-branded as the Smoak Grill and Ember Lounge, the two venues only opened this Summer. Smoak Grill is inspired by Texan smokehouses with its very own butchers window and a menu heavily focused on meaty dishes.
We sampled the Smoak Burger which was huge! A juicy patty cooked medium rare and served with Gruyere Cheese and Bacon with a cone of freshly fried skinny chips. The seven hour braised lamb was equally as good served with cheesy mash and red wine gravy.
The Ember Lounge at the back of the restaurant is located behind close doors for added privacy, which no doubt explains why it attracts footballers. from the nearby clubs. Entrance is by invitation only, cocktails are made at your table and there is a exit out of the back of the building if you want to make a discreet escape. Both areas were bustling with life on the night we stayed; full of hip, young, trendy things (we were in good company!).
If you’re looking for a sexy stay in Manchester look no further than the Malmaison, and now with the edition of Smoak and Ember you need never leave the hotel.
Room rates start from £89 online, but check out the promos as you can usually score a DB&B package for around £100 on certain days.
Malmaison, Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 1LZ
www.malmaison.com