Trof Northern Quarter

You'll find yourself torn between studying the impressive bourbon selection and checking what's happening on the small stage tucked into the corner. This Thomas Street spot does the rare thing of being genuinely good at multiple things – whether you're here for their proper breakfast at 10am, settling in for one of their famous quiz nights, or catching an intimate gig with a decent burger. The space feels lived-in rather than designed, with mismatched furniture and dim lighting that works whether you're nursing a coffee over your laptop or getting properly stuck into their whiskey menu. The kitchen doesn't phone it in either – their food actually complements rather than competes with the drinks and entertainment.