Exploring Bunny Jackson’s Dive Bar and Casa Barú Rum
Bunny Jackson’s, a popular dive bar located on Deansgate, recently unveiled a new range of Panamanian rum from Casa Barú. This exclusive rum has yet to hit store shelves and is only available in selected venues across the UK. As a journalist for Mancunian Matters, I was fortunate enough to be invited to try out this new offering at Bunny Jackson’s. Here is a detailed review of my experience at this unique establishment.
Atmosphere and Ambience
Tucked away through an archway just a short walk from Deansgate station, Bunny Jackson’s is a hidden gem that offers a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city streets. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a faux-juke joint aesthetic with dim lighting and colorful kitschy decorations that create an intimate and inviting atmosphere. The bar is a popular spot for locals, with patrons enjoying games of pool and the laid-back vibe that sets it apart from traditional dive bars.
Delicious Cocktails and Wings
During my visit, I had the pleasure of sampling some of Bunny Jackson’s signature cocktails, starting with a refreshing passionfruit daiquiri that was tangy and slightly dry, just like biting into a real passionfruit. The standout drink of the night was the “Panama Coffee” cocktail, which featured Xopa, Casa Barú’s coffee liqueur. This velvety concoction was a delightful blend of tiramisu and melted chocolate ice cream, making it a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast.
In addition to the impressive cocktail menu, Bunny Jackson’s is also known for its delicious chicken wings. The red wing baskets perfectly capture the American vibe, with tender and flavorful wings that offer a comfortable level of spiciness. While the House BBQ wings were a bit on the sweet side for my taste, the Sailor Jerry Spiced Sesame wings stood out with a more refined flavor profile, balancing the sesame with a rum glaze that added depth to the dish.
Rum Tasting and Pricing
As part of the experience, I had the opportunity to participate in a rum tasting session that introduced us to Casa Barú’s three products: Pure Single Rum, Double Crop, and Xopa Coffee Liqueur. While rum can be a challenging spirit to drink neat, I found that the Double Crop variety in particular offered a warming sensation at the back of my mouth without the harsh burn often associated with rum.
During the tasting, spokesman Victor ten Wolde shared that the Single Rum is expected to retail for around £29 a bottle, while the Double Crop will be priced at approximately £40, putting them in line with other high-end rums on the market. The reasonable pricing, combined with the quality of the Casa Barú rum, makes it an attractive option for rum enthusiasts looking to explore new flavors and experiences.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
Overall, my experience at Bunny Jackson’s was a positive one, with the rum and restaurant living up to the hype surrounding their new partnership with Casa Barú. While there were minor issues such as long queues and the lackluster house lager, the standout cocktails and delicious wings more than made up for any shortcomings.
I would highly recommend Bunny Jackson’s to anyone looking for a unique and memorable dining and drinking experience in Manchester. The cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and diverse menu make it a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike. I believe that incorporating the Casa Barú cocktails as a permanent feature on the menu would only enhance the already exceptional offerings at this Deansgate dive bar.
In conclusion, Bunny Jackson’s is a hidden gem that offers a welcome escape from the city streets, with delicious cocktails, flavorful wings, and a laid-back atmosphere that sets it apart from traditional dive bars. Whether you’re a rum enthusiast or simply looking for a fun night out with friends, Bunny Jackson’s is sure to exceed your expectations and leave you coming back for more.