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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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/
