Local Reviews
In April 2026, Michael Cheung said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
A Tale of Two Tandoors
This meal was a masterclass in the balance between delicate aromatics and robust, clay-oven char. From the initial crunch of the appetizers to the rich, slow-cooked depths of the mains, the progression of flavors was expertly handled.
The Starters: Texture and Smoke
The meal opened with a classic contrast in styles. The Onion Bhajis were golden and structurally perfect—shatteringly crisp on the outside while maintaining a soft, spiced center where the sweetness of the onions could really shine.
The Lamb Chops, however, were the tactical highlight of the first course. Marinated in a potent blend of ginger, garlic, and garam masala, they bore the unmistakable smoky "kiss" of the tandoor. The meat remained succulent, pulling away from the bone with minimal effort, proving that high-heat cooking doesn't have to mean sacrificing tenderness.
The Mains: The Smooth and the Savory
The transition to the main courses offered a beautiful study in sauce construction.
* Butter Chicken: This was the soul of the meal. The gravy was silk personified—rich, tomato-based, and finished with enough cream and butter to make it indulgent without feeling heavy. The subtle hint of dried fenugreek (kasuri methi) provided a floral backnote that cut through the richness.
* Lamb Handi: In stark contrast to the Butter Chicken, the Lamb Handi offered a more rustic, deep-flavored experience. Cooked in the traditional vessel style, the sauce was thicker and more concentrated, highlighting the earthy notes of black cardamom and browned onions. The lamb had clearly been slow-simmered, absorbing the intense spice profile of the gravy.
The Verdict
The pairing of the creamy, mild Butter Chicken with the more assertive, spice-forward Lamb Handi created a balanced palate. It was a meal that respected tradition while executing the basics with high technical skill.
Highlights:
* The "snap" of the Onion Bhaji.
* The smoky depth of the Lamb Chops.
* The velvet-like consistency of the Butter Chicken sauce.
This meal was a masterclass in the balance between delicate aromatics and robust, clay-oven char. From the initial crunch of the appetizers to the rich, slow-cooked depths of the mains, the progression of flavors was expertly handled.
The Starters: Texture and Smoke
The meal opened with a classic contrast in styles. The Onion Bhajis were golden and structurally perfect—shatteringly crisp on the outside while maintaining a soft, spiced center where the sweetness of the onions could really shine.
The Lamb Chops, however, were the tactical highlight of the first course. Marinated in a potent blend of ginger, garlic, and garam masala, they bore the unmistakable smoky "kiss" of the tandoor. The meat remained succulent, pulling away from the bone with minimal effort, proving that high-heat cooking doesn't have to mean sacrificing tenderness.
The Mains: The Smooth and the Savory
The transition to the main courses offered a beautiful study in sauce construction.
* Butter Chicken: This was the soul of the meal. The gravy was silk personified—rich, tomato-based, and finished with enough cream and butter to make it indulgent without feeling heavy. The subtle hint of dried fenugreek (kasuri methi) provided a floral backnote that cut through the richness.
* Lamb Handi: In stark contrast to the Butter Chicken, the Lamb Handi offered a more rustic, deep-flavored experience. Cooked in the traditional vessel style, the sauce was thicker and more concentrated, highlighting the earthy notes of black cardamom and browned onions. The lamb had clearly been slow-simmered, absorbing the intense spice profile of the gravy.
The Verdict
The pairing of the creamy, mild Butter Chicken with the more assertive, spice-forward Lamb Handi created a balanced palate. It was a meal that respected tradition while executing the basics with high technical skill.
Highlights:
* The "snap" of the Onion Bhaji.
* The smoky depth of the Lamb Chops.
* The velvet-like consistency of the Butter Chicken sauce.
Source: google.com
In April 2026, Ramesh Patel said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
Nice n clean place good for small gatherings ❤️
Source: google.com
In April 2026, Ian Mconie said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
As a regular at this establishment I can honestly say under new management this place is really going places. Well what can I say.?
Food. The curries are to die for. We had the chicken shahi and an amasing Biryani which comes with a mild vegetable sauce. And the portions are massive so can easily be shared between 2 or 3 people. Don't skip the seekh kebabs they're super tasty.
Service. The service as really improved. The staff are very polite and attentive to your requests and provide a friendly subtle experience without being overwhelming. The new manager even stopped by our table for a quick chat and actually listens and takes on board criticism. You can tell hes got that hospitality experience that perhaps wasn't there before.
Atmosphere. The place as recently undergone renovation. And boy as it made the difference. It's now much more open and inviting. And after a quick chat with management there's deffo more to come this place isn't sitting down. I Can absolutely recommend you take a trip into this place next time your in Bolton to experience it's new fresh feel.
Food. The curries are to die for. We had the chicken shahi and an amasing Biryani which comes with a mild vegetable sauce. And the portions are massive so can easily be shared between 2 or 3 people. Don't skip the seekh kebabs they're super tasty.
Service. The service as really improved. The staff are very polite and attentive to your requests and provide a friendly subtle experience without being overwhelming. The new manager even stopped by our table for a quick chat and actually listens and takes on board criticism. You can tell hes got that hospitality experience that perhaps wasn't there before.
Atmosphere. The place as recently undergone renovation. And boy as it made the difference. It's now much more open and inviting. And after a quick chat with management there's deffo more to come this place isn't sitting down. I Can absolutely recommend you take a trip into this place next time your in Bolton to experience it's new fresh feel.
Source: google.com
In May 2026, Daxa Shah said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
We came today and the food was really tasty and Service was lovley. Thevpaw bhaji in particular was amazing just as it should be. Clean and lovley atmosphere. Thank you.
Source: google.com
In May 2026, cece swen said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
Food was absolutely amazing! Love the customer service from Keji, she was so lovely. Would definitely be coming back again!
Source: google.com
In May 2026, Sharon Strath said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
Great new place. Food was amazing. Staff were fantastic. Couldnt do enough. Very impressed.
Source: google.com
In May 2026, Annie H said about The Bar of Spice & Spirits
Came here on Friday night and the food is excellent. The place is spotlessly clean and service was attentive but not in your face. Drinks are not ridiculously priced and I highly recommend you visit .
Source: google.com
In April 2026, D R said about Holiday Inn Preston
Great stay!
Special thanks to Maria at check-in for the lovely surprise as an IHG guest – a very thoughtful touch.
Also many thanks to Amanda for the perfect breakfast service. Friendly, attentive and professional.
Special thanks to Maria at check-in for the lovely surprise as an IHG guest – a very thoughtful touch.
Also many thanks to Amanda for the perfect breakfast service. Friendly, attentive and professional.
Source: google.com
In April 2026, carol amor said about Holiday Inn Preston
We stayed for two nights in this hotel.
Room and bathroom clean .
Breakfast was ok .
Evening meal was appalling chips not cooked fish so small looked like a children's meal .
Room and bathroom clean .
Breakfast was ok .
Evening meal was appalling chips not cooked fish so small looked like a children's meal .
Source: google.com
In April 2026, FIN OMARA said about Holiday Inn Preston
Really nice hotel, very clean and tidy and nice enjoy your stay message from Monica
Source: google.com