Stepping away from the bustling streets of Weatherfield, Coronation Street star Jenni McAlpine, fondly known for her role as Fiz Dobbs since 2001, has found success in a different arena. Along with her partner Chris Farr, Jenni opened Annie’s, a delightful Manchester restaurant and tea room, in 2012. Since its inception, Annie’s has garnered widespread acclaim, including the People’s Choice award for Best Tea Room at the Manchester Tourism Awards, a testament to its charming ambiance and exquisite Afternoon Teas. This year, Annie’s further solidified its reputation, securing a coveted spot in the top 10 of TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Awards for the Best of the Best Restaurants. This recognition underscored Annie’s undeniable popularity among reviewers, cementing its position as a must-visit dining destination.
Driven by curiosity and a desire to experience this award-winning establishment firsthand, Jenna Campbell, a reporter for the Manchester Evening News, embarked on a culinary adventure at Annie’s. Upon entering, Jenna noted a distinctive atmosphere, describing it as stepping into “someone’s front room.” Though adorned with chandeliers and plush button-backed armchairs, the overall ambiance was surprisingly tranquil, punctuated by the soothing sounds of Michael Buble’s velvety vocals. The private dining area was momentarily obscured, adding an element of intrigue, but Jenna eventually discovered a cozy space filled with inviting armchairs and a charming faux log fire. Twinkling fairy lights and faux flowers cascaded from the ceiling, while theatre posters adorned the walls, creating a captivating and eclectically adorned space.
The menu at Annie’s boasted a diverse range of options, offering a delectable spread from Afternoon Tea to Sunday Lunch and breakfast delights. The extensive a la carte menu further showcased the culinary expertise of the establishment, with tempting pre-dinner options starting at £22. Jenna and her dining companion were particularly intrigued by the “resoundingly Northern” a la carte selection, opting for the Bury Black pudding (£8.75), traditional hotpot (£15.75), and cheese and onion pie (£14.50).
The Bury Black pudding, presented with a generous portion of deep-fried halloumi, was a symphony of flavors. Neatly arranged atop a glistening piece of toasted bread and accompanied by a pot of chili jam, it was a simple yet effective dish. The hot pot, beautifully presented, evoked a sense of home, with Jenna’s companion remarking that it tasted “like home.”
Embracing their Northern roots, the cheese and onion pie, though smaller in size than Jenna was accustomed to, proved to be a powerhouse of flavor. The golden shortcrust pastry held within it a rich and savory filling that was both satisfying and moreish. The pie was expertly accompanied by gravy, chops, and Annie’s beans, the latter adding a delightful burst of flavor to the main course.
To round off their culinary journey, Jenna opted for the Jam Roly Poly (£7.75), a nostalgic dessert that brought back childhood memories. The jam, a perfect balance of sweet and tart, complemented the suet pudding roll, which was baked to perfection. Jenna recalled the less-than-desirable lumpy custard she often encountered in school dinners but was delighted to find that Annie’s offered a velvety and smooth custard, creating a truly satisfying end to the meal.
Annie’s, a testament to the culinary prowess of Jenni McAlpine and her partner, offers a unique dining experience that seamlessly blends classic Northern cuisine with a charming and cozy atmosphere. From its award-winning Afternoon Teas to its delectable a la carte menu, Annie’s is a testament to the power of passion, creativity, and a love for good food. Whether you’re a fan of Coronation Street or simply searching for a delightful dining experience, Annie’s is a must-visit destination that will surely leave you wanting more.