The team behind a popular city centre cocktail bar have teased its return just weeks after its sudden closure. Red Light, which was once voted 'one to watch', closed its doors after this year's Manchester Pride.
The bar, formerly located on Little David Street near the Gay Village, opened in 2023 as part of a regeneration of one of Manchester's remaining cobbled streets and was well-known as a queer-friendly bar. But in late August, bosses said rising costs, location and 'difficulties' with locals had forced them to shutter.
Red Light 2.0 teased on social media
Now, in a major update, the team has teased 'Red Light 2.0', sharing a much-welcomed post on social media about its return. On Instagram last night (October 6), they told followers it had been "tricky" to keep the news secret as they gave more details on what to expect next.
The team wrote on Instagram: "Your love and support has meant the absolute world to us since we closed the doors to our Kampus venue. It's been a tricky secret to keep but we're thrilled to share that we're back and in a brand new location."
"This one feels special, it's not often you get a second chance at things in the current climate. You can expect everything you've come to know and love about Red Light plus some extra surprises."
What to expect at the new venue
"Since we closed we've had lots of requests for your favourite cocktails recipes, rest assured your Red Light tipples are all making a comeback - Pink Picante? Pomme Verte? Especiado? YEP. All yours to enjoy very soon alongside a brand new snack bar offering."
The post went on to explain how there will also be a dedicated club space for their "notorious" parties, as well as street parties, and in the biography for the bar on its Instagram page it hints at live jazz too. Images also shared in the post show a dark staircase lit in the bar's signature neon red, as well as booth seating and red-brick walls.
The post continued: "We can't wait to welcome you with open arms and a cake chaser (if you know you know) or a pickle back if that's not your jam. We've got you. Red Light NQ. Lets Go Baby!"
Customers hail 'great news'
When Deana Ferguson first opened Red Light three years ago, the hospitality veteran wanted to bring a premium cocktail experience to the Gay Village. It soon became an integral part of the community and was named 'one to watch' by Time Out in 2024, alongside recognition in other bar trade awards.
The bar's original cocktail menu, devised by Deana and her top team of mixologists, featured a number of experimental twists on classics, all which could be enjoyed in an intimate space adorned with artwork from local artists.
News of the bar's return was met with delight from followers and customers online too with some calling it "the absolute best news". One follower wrote: "Oh yes! This has put a big smile on my face. Welcome to phase 2." Another added: "Great news, currently searching all black doors in the Northern Quarter to figure out where this will be."
