14 C
Manchester
Wednesday, April 23, 2025
Food and DrinkWe review: Med-inspired 'Mélange' comes to Ramsbottom

We review: Med-inspired ‘Mélange’ comes to Ramsbottom

When we were offered the chance to sample the fusion of flavoursome food at Bury’s newest restaurant, we found it hard to turn down.

Mélange – which translates as ‘mixture’ – offers a Mediterranean-inspired menu, drawing from memories and unforgettable holidays, bringing with it a medley of flavours and colours.

PXL 20250227 151435432.MP scaled e1740752043335

The 80-seat bar and restaurant has recently opened inside the Red Hall Hotel on Manchester Road, near junction 1 of the M66, and replaces the former eatery, Oscar’s.

Overlooking picturesque Ramsbottom, it was easy to find with plenty of free parking available.

PXL 20250226 200830264 scaled e1740752454302

Stepping inside we were greeted by both the friendly receptionist and bar tender, before being taken to our seats in a booth, by waiter, James.

The newly renovated bar and restaurant was bright and airy, with a modern feel. With plenty of soft lighting and candles, cream walls and green plants,  it made for a welcoming, relaxed ambience.

PXL 20250226 200733934

There were plenty of areas to eat, including cosy pockets away from the general room for smaller groups or those going solo.

With everything from signature bread, to small plates, sharing experiences, pizzas and steaks, and a very well-stocked wine list on offer, there were major decisions to be made.

PXL 20250226 184926309.PORTRAIT scaled e1740752287279

Our waiter welcomed us to the restaurant, brought some soft drinks over and recommended my friend and I had the nibbles to start. So, we picked the olives in herbs, which were perfectly plump and juicy. The patatas bravas was sensational – an incredible spicy tomato sauce with perfectly soft potato, was a satisfying start for us both.

For mains, my partner opted for the maple-baked salmon served with potato puree, which was a really decent portion, well cooked and complemented well by the broccoli and carrot, with a decorative tuile.

PXL 20250226 191340281 scaled e1740752104153

As a gluten and dairy-free eater (groan) I’m often dismayed by the food choices on offer, but the chef went out of his way to cater to my needs, so I was able to have the king prawn linguine. Huge – and I mean bigger than king-looking – prawns were served in a velvety tomato sauce with a fair amount of heat. Delicious and cooked to perfection.

PXL 20250226 191408859 1 scaled e1740751748668

For dessert across the table, it was the chocolate cheesecake, which was perfect. Not too rich – as they often are – and with a deliciously crunchy base. I was happy with the gluten and dairy-free brownie, which came topped with walnuts and a dairy-free vanilla ice cream to cut through the sweetness.

PXL 20250226 194049137 scaled e1740752180440

It’s safe to say we will be back. The prices were fair, the service was excellent, the food was fabulous. Overall, it was a great dining experience with plenty on offer for all, even the more awkward among us.

Perfectly located, it’s a great option for a special evening meal or a casual lunch date. And of course, you could just take advantage of the beautiful bar for a vast range of spirits, wines and non-alcoholic drinks.

To book your table at Mélange, visit: red-hall.co.uk/melange/

Helen Greaney
Helen Greaney
I'm a journalist with more than 18 years' experience on local, regional and national newspapers, as well as PR and digital marketing. Crime and the courts is my specialist area but I'm also keen to hear your stories concerning Manchester and the greater North West region.
Latest

St George’s Day parade returns to Manchester

The St George's Day Parade, a beloved fixture in Manchester's event calendar for nearly two decades, returns on April 27 with its vibrant celebration...

Police appeal following serious assault in Bramhall

Detectives are seeking the public’s help with enquires after a serious assault took place in a bar in Stockport. Sometime around 12.40am on April 19,...

Street Eat festival returns to Rochdale in June

Street Eat - the food and drink festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year - is returning to Rochdale Town Hall Square for...

New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre

A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

Detective convicted of sexual offences is dismissed

Greater Manchester Police have dismissed detective sergeant Richard Mills and barred him from policing at an Accelerated Misconduct Hearing. Mills was sentenced to 18 months...

Street Eat festival returns to Rochdale in June

Street Eat - the food and drink festival that attracts thousands of visitors every year - is returning to Rochdale Town Hall Square for...

New public square unveiled in Gorton town centre

A new public square is now formally open, providing a new heart and focal point for the Gorton neighbourhood, while supporting the ongoing success...

St George’s Day parade returns to Manchester

The St George's Day Parade, a beloved fixture in Manchester's event calendar for nearly two decades, returns on April 27 with its vibrant celebration...

More News

New-Look Café Reopens at JB Furniture Wakefield Showroom

The café at JB Furniture’s Wakefield showroom has officially reopened following a comprehensive redesign. The refreshed space now offers customers a calm and comfortable...

Manchester’s Raju Sauces announces new distribution with Ocado.com 

Helping redefine global flavours, Manchester-made Raju Sauces hosted an event with culinary experts and food lovers, as the company announced its ​listing​ with ...

Trafford Centre champions homegrown talent for new Asian dining experience

Trafford Centre is unveiling its new restaurant dining development 'Eastern Garden', which is dedicated to Mancunian talent. Responding to consumer demand, Eastern Garden celebrates independent...