ça - Barca

BarCa is on Catalan Square, hence the name being a play on words, including Barca (abbreviation for Barcelona, capital of Catalonia) and the fact it's a Bar. Sadly, other than offering a humorous pun, this place doesn't have much going for it. The staff seem unpleasant and not very friendly at all, and the security guard on the door seems more interested in talking to his friends and trying his best to act tough and intimidate patrons, with smug arrogance. The bar staff didn't seem too friendly either, just rushed and impersonal service, with everyone pushing to the front of the queue, with no particular system or order in place, it was a nightmare. It was easy to get a table as most people here seem to be so set on standing around the bar, much more than many other bars in the city... Some of the seating is comfortable and a little formal, and the outdoor area is reasonably pleasant. Drink prices are average and pretty much what you'd expect to pay anywhere in the city centre with card payments accepted. Rushed service, which still felt slow, and unpleasant security/bar staff means I would be unlikely to return here, I'm afraid. 2*

BarCa is definitely the hot summer hangout! There aren't many places in Manchester that have such great outside space. Located on the canal basin in Castlefield, it's perfect for a relaxed drink of an evening or weekend. And when it gets a little chilly there are even heaters to keep the party going. The name is somewhat confusing as it makes you think of all things Mediterranean. But I think this has more to do with the fact that the bar is located in Catalan Square than its décor. I've not tried to food yet but from what I gather it has all the usual pub grub you could want from a sports bar.

We came here for a steak dinner with wine as I had bought a voucher off the internet. We hadn't been before and because of the name, I imagined it was some sort of Spanish restaurant. Alas, it was a sports bar! I think it now wants to boost its restaurant clientele. The interior is tired with a leak problem. The place needs a bit of updating if they're hoping to do well as a foodie pub! Having said this, the staff were lovely and it was obvious they were learning to get the hanging of food service but endearingly so. In addition to the steak dinner, we sampled their menu and although it was pub food, it was alright. The place still gets only two stars because of the atmosphere. There was sport playing TV, the toilets were not great and the surroundings didn't provide for a nice meal.

Ice. That's what 99% of the cocktails are composed of. BUT, they are hella tasty. It has a great outdoor area to people-watch. The waitresses are hot as hell, mate. I like originality, and this bar is def not of the same ilk as the ones in the area. Try it.

Barca boasts a lovely decked outdoor area with views of the canal, boats and ducks. They also provide outdoor heaters for those who want the views but don't want to be shivering like crazy at the same time. We tried a very nice cider on draught (which I've stupidly forgotten the name of) and they also stock a selection of real ales too, according to the blackboards outside. The food menu looked good, offering a number of sharing platters at reasonable prices. This is a great setting for an afternoon drink and lunch in the sun and I can imagine it being a lively nightspot too. Inside looks shiny and plush, so I can bet the office workers pile into here in their droves come 5pm on a Friday. One thing I would criticise them for though: the toilets weren't clearly marked (not marked at all actually) and therefore I think I went into the men's! It was only when I went to wash my hands that I noticed a big condom machine by the sinks, twigged and got the hell out, sharpish without even drying my hands! I will definitely give this place another go when the weather gets a bit warmer but will make sure I head to the correct WC next time. Eek!