Where: Snuggled amongst the trendy strip of bars on Deansgate Locks,

Manchester - opposite Deansgate station and just in front of the tram stop

so schlepping across the city in the rain is kept to a bare minimum.

What: Fat Cats has much in common with its neighbours with a classy interior,

bouncers on the door and a late license at weekend. However, out of all the

bars on the Locks, Fat Cats is the most laid back, with a relaxed air aided

by the expansive leather sofas and sociable seating.

Handbag or Heavy Metal?

Funky tunes tend to be the order of the day and as the night progresses

customers having the option to remain upstairs and do the bar thing or head

downstairs where a DJ on the decks sets a more lively tone.

The In Crowd

Due to its laid back atmosphere Fat Cats attracts a less posey crowd than

Loaf, with less neatly pressed shirts and more hooded tops. However as the

night goes on the dress code gets more strict, meaning that there are plenty

of people around who are dressed to impress. Well, it is the Locks after all.

What's the damage?

You might not faint at the bar but then neither will you be jumping for joy

at the prices. Too cool for drinks offers, expect to nearly £3 for a glass of

wine and around the same for a pint and you won't be too shocked.

Verdict?

A funky, friendly option if your are headed for Deansgate locks. And if you

are a bit peckish then check out the menu - the food is as delicious as the

decor.