Probably one of the best EATs I've been to - this is based purely on the fact that it's not particularly busy during peak lunchtime hours. Is this a silly thing to throw 4 stars at? Perhaps. Perhaps I am high on the fact it's almost the weekend and completely disregarding the fact that EAT is yet another chain and, on most occassions, another place where I end up stressed, not knowing which queue to stand in, and ultimately hungry due to my hatred of mayonnaise.
This branch, set off from both Deansgate and St Ann's Square, is hidden from the public eye. It's small but actually well set out; there are no chairs or tables in your way and most tables are two seaters, recognising the general eating habits of the working people. There's something quite odd/guilt inducing about sitting on a four seater if there is only one or two of you. Due to the size there is no 'fast track' till point found in some EAT branches, meaning you know where you're going and what you're going there for. To the till, to pay.
Food is standard EAT fayre - salads, baguettes, soups, and even hot pies. Sadly I didn't spot the behind-the-till soup or pies until I'd got there and handed my panini over for heating. Sigh, I'll just have to go again. My mexican chicken panini, chosen based on no mayonnaise and some additional veggies, was actually pretty tasty, with black beans and sweetcorn making me feel a touch healthier, though soft white bread always makes me feel heavy and a tad guilty during the afternoon.
Free wi-fi is advertised but it's one of those jobbies where you have to sign in through a chosen outlet and, if not a member of whatever, you have to make yourself one. Yawn. Too much hassle when I'm grappling with a panini.
To paraphrase Fleetwood Mac, you will never break the chain so you might aswell find the best of a bad bunch. read more