The most striking thing about Joule, a bar tucked underneath a tower next to Trinity Way and Chapel Street, is not the vast selection of beer.
Nor is it the decor, or the atmosphere. It’s the light.
The light in question drapes over a pole in the bar — which is named after James Prescott Joule. He was born on New Bailey Street, at the bottom end of Chapel Street, and was a scientist notable for his work on heat — so much so that he has a unit of energy named after him.
Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features.
Kevin Fenton has also named something after the scientist: his bar, Joule MCR. The 45-year-old is relatively new in his premises, and this is what he makes of the area.
Where’s your favourite hidden gem?
Good question! Personally, I’d go for This & That, the curry place down the alleyway. It’s just got the best food. It’s a great place to be.
What’s your favourite view of the city or in the city?
I’d go to the Northern Quarter, there’s so much going on. We always take them up there, and then to Piccadilly’s arches where there are loads of breweries, that area.
Where’s best to go for your dinner in town?
If it was posh, the Refuge, or Zouk — the best curry in town. Rosa’s Thai Cafe as well.
Where would you take someone to show them the real Manchester?
I’d go for the suburbs. Take them out to Trafford, Salford, that sort-of-way. It shows a side of Manchester that’s not been swamped by bars.
What’s your favourite Mancunian neighbourhood?
Salford, has to be. We opened this bar in Salford, we live in Salford.
What are the five words that best describe the city?
Modern, nostalgic, lively, friendly, and interesting.
City or United?
I’m not into football… I’ve got to be careful what I say! I will abstain.
Liam or Noel?
Liam, for sure.
Your favourite city pub is…?
Other than my own, The City Arms.
What’s the one change you'd make to Manchester if you could…
Piccadilly Gardens, just tidy it up and make it nicer. It’s the first thing people see when they get to town.
