Late Night Drinkin’
With good drinks and a relaxed vibe, Gorilla gets the vote for a nightcap - or two
Review by Rupert Watkins
Those in need of a good drink can track it down under the railway arches on Whitworth Street. Gorilla is a relaxed and funky bar. With exposed brickwork and piping it has an industrial chic air but there is also, with the wooden tables and high windows, a distinctly vintage American diner feel to the establishment.
The bartenders are swift and polite and my colleague’s and my own Vieux Carres made with Buffalo Trace bourbon, cognac, vermouth and smoked Benedictine were exceedingly good and made for a good final drink of the evening. The cocktail list is not exhaustive, nicely split between longs and shorts, which I always take as an excellent sign as it means the bar is focusing properly on what it does well. There is a small selection of draught beers for those looking in that direction and one or two unusual choices in amongst their bottled beers.
Though unvisited, upstairs Gorilla has a small gin parlour on its mezzanine floor. Again the small but balanced and well thought out cocktail list hints at a fun evening for those wishing to take on board some Mother’s Ruin.
Gorilla has constantly changing live music hosting up-and-coming bands and underground artists on its club stage so those seeking a more clubbing oriented night are as looked after and those seeking a post work drink. 
Enquiries: Gorilla, 54-56 Whitworth Street Manchester M1 5WW / 01614 070301 / www.thisisgorilla.com/