Review: Bluu

Total Guide to Features Editor, Daniel Flay reviews Bluu.

Hidden amongst the hipster filled streets of the Northern Quarter is Bluu; a seamlessly on-trend smoke house inspired restaurant, with all the right ingredients of a top Northern Quarter hang-out. (Think stylish exposed brickwork, distressed wooden panels and edgy neon signage.)

We arrived a little early for our 2.30pm booking, but fortunately this wasn't a problem. Our waiter, Will made his introductions and swiftly seated us in a fantastic spot right next to the window. This great level of service carried on through the meal, and was a real highlight of our experience. 

Once seated we had the option of choosing from either the brunch, lunch or all day menu. Brunch covered the usual eggs every-which-way as well as an array of other breakfast inspired treats, while the lunch menu featured an ample sandwich offering. Given how hungry we were, we decided to go for the low and slow delights of the all-day menu. 

As promised, this menu was a magnificently meaty affair, with the likes of super-succulent St. Louis Slab Ribs taking centre stage. Not only were the ribs served with an authentic South Carolina BBQ Sauce but they also came with a hefty helping of Skin On Fries. 

Other lip-tingling options included Beef Brisket and BBQ Chicken, although the real show-stoppers were the burgers, complete with bouncy, brioche buns and juicy, pink-centred patties.

The excellent ‘Bluu Smoke Stack' - which was made up of a succulent beef patty and sweet pulled pork - was bursting with layers of crisp shredded lettuce, thick slices of tomato, finely sliced red onion, and a slathering of smoked cheddar - to finish there was a tasty and tangy chipotle mayo, drizzled over the top. 

In addition to these meaty masterpieces, there were six different sauces available, with the aim of taking our meals to the next level. Will was more than happy to advise which sauce would work best with which dish. Options included the "House BBQ" which went well with everything, the "Chilli Vinegar" which was perfect with pulled pork and the "South Carolina" which was best with beef.  

After a quick breather, we eyed up the dessert menu and ordered another round of drinks. 

The pudding selection was equally as impressive as the all-day menu. The presentation was second to none, and unbelievable value for money. 

The Chocolate and Peanut Butter Whoopie Pie was a sheer American sugar fest and I loved every single bite. The rich, chocolately base was covered with a creamy Peanut Butter mousse and beautifully finished with a caramelised popcorn topping - which added a nice crunch to the dish. 

The Chocolate Sundae was just as indulgent. With layers of rich chocolate ice cream, gooey brownies and lashings of chocolate sauce, it was the stuff of dreams.

We both almost managed to finish them too...but were ultimately defeated by our earlier meat feast. 

All in all I couldn't fault my experience. The atmosphere was lively and the service was fast and attentive. 

During my visit I felt well-looked after, in the know and most importantly relaxed. I'll definitely be heading back soon, I think another slice of Chocolate and Peanut Butter Whoopie Pie is calling my name...