Nexus Art Café

Nexus is a pleasant and quirky little sanctuary in the middle of Manchester City Centre. You wouldn't know you were in the city once you're in there, as it feels very bohemian, arty and friendly, without feeling "hipster",  and above all, it's relaxing and cosy.

The furniture is made up of mismatched sofas and chairs, cushions and even the occasional beanbag, but the place feels like a little nest. You can cosy down with a hot drink and maybe a lunch of something from their delicious seasonal menu, and completely unwind. There is a little 'garden' outside area where you can sit on sunny days, and the main seating area in the café itself is split into two levels across three areas, as well as a smaller sepertatable area which can be hired for private use. There initially doesn't appear to have disabled access as to enter the café you have to descend two sets of steep stairs, and although I didn't see any disabled access toilets, I believe that there is a lift via an adjoining unit, but it'd be best to contact the venue themselves to check.

They have a good menu available, with everything from hearty pies, to sausage butties, little cakes, and big fresh salads. They offer both hot and cold drinks, from organic pop to hot Vimto, and from builders tea to Teapigs tea.

One of the things that makes me smile about Nexus is the sign near the till that says that if you can donate a chair for the venue, they'll give you a free coffee, and will be very grateful. There's something about that humble and down to earth feel which I like.

As you can imagine by the name, the venue has frequently changing art installations throughout the café and the entering corridor and staircase, and cute little arts and crafts for sale, as well as hosting frequent special events, spiritual meetings, live music, and group meetings. Given this, the interior décor of the venue is constantly changing. It's likely if you go every couple of months, it'll look different than when you were last there!

Nexus is a very casual and welcoming place where friends of all ages meet. The food and drinks are good, and although not "greasy spoon" prices, they're on a par with most of the rest of the city centre, except you know you're supporting an independent, and that it's good quality.

Nexus Art Café
2 Dale Street, Manchester City Centre
(0161) 236 0100
www.nexusartcafe.com