Blackjack Brew Tap

Head down Rochdale Road, past The Angel, take a left at The Marble Arch and you’ll happen across the diminutive brewery of Blackjack Beers. Founded in 2012 by Rob Hamilton (an alumnus of Manchester indie beer pioneers Marble), Blackjack has grown from a small operation to one of the foremost craft beer suppliers in the area, with a portfolio of over 40 cask ales.

They’ve transformed the site, which has the look of a mechanic’s garage, into something eminently more hospitable. There are tables made from repurposed wooden pallets and lamps made from the plastic innards of kegs – there’s even a miniature herb garden sprouting from the walls. It’s all very DIY, but that’s part of the charm.

When events are on, Blackjack’s core range is usually available, including their excellent Aces High and an intense stout, plus whatever collaborations they’re involved in. Expect to see beer from their brewery cohabitants 6 O’Clock Brewing, too. Food comes from local street food traders: The Moocher, Arepa!Arepa!Arepa!, Big Star and Honest Crust have all catered. For DJ duty, see Goff and David Chatton Barker.