Thousands of food-lovers flock to Rochdale's Food and Drink Festival

Date published: 09 September 2021

Thousands of people enjoyed Rochdale town centre’s culinary delights during the inaugural Food and Drink Festival.

More than 20 restaurants, bar and cafés took part in the festival, which ran between 25 August and 5 September, celebrating Rochdale’s food and drink venues with exciting offers, events and limited time menus.

A variety of offers meant there was something for everyone – whether you wanted to bag a bargain lunch, catch up over cocktails, indulge in sweet treat or enjoy a meal with friends. Visitors also had the chance to enjoy a Thai night ‘takeover’ and revel in comedy and open-mic nights.

Venues who took part in the BID-hosted event included Crust, Bean, Petit Bistro, the Medicine Tap, Hoochi Koochi, La Mancha, Vicolo del Vino, Café Grand Abaco and The 13ar.

Terry Fleming, owner of the Petit Bistro, said: “It was great to be part of such a wonderful event which showcased the town centres growing food and drink offer. 

“With new food and drink businesses opening every month, and the existing ones constantly evolving what they do best, the town centre has established itself as a great food and drink destination. 

“As part of our contribution to the Food and Drink Festival, the Thai Night Take Over was a smash. Speaking with customers, many of them were commenting on how great the town centre’s food and drink offer has become.”

Lisa Wolstenholme, Manager of Hogarths, added: “We jumped at the chance of taking part in the Food and Drink Festival which supported the town centre’s amazing and growing food and drink offer.   

“Since we opened Hogarths in 2020, what has struck us has been the great supportive community spirit from the other town centre food and drink venues who are always on hand to offer support.

“This community spirit helps to ensure that all venues continue to promote the entire town centre food and drink offer.”

Paul Ambrose, Business Improvement District Manager, said: “It’s been great to see that the Food and Drink Festival has been a great success with patrons being able to take advantage of tasty offers at our local food and drink businesses.   

“The impact of the growing food and drink offer cannot be underestimated as it boosts footfall, it makes a significant contribution to the local economy, and it is helping to change the perceptions of the centre which is transforming. 

“Although the festival is now over, I encourage everyone to connect with the town centre by visiting our food and drink businesses.”

The festival – which aims to help you find your new favourite local restaurant, support old favourites, and discover another reason to love Rochdale town centre – will return next year.