Private Cocktail Making Class in Manchester

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your visit to Manchester, a private cocktail making class might just be the perfect choice. We haven’t personally tried it ourselves, but from what we’ve seen, it offers a solid mix of learning, tasting, and socialising—all wrapped up in a lively two-hour session. Whether you’re a cocktail novice or just looking for a fun night out, this experience is designed to entertain and educate in equal measure.

What really catches the eye here is the interactive nature of the masterclass—you won’t just watch a bartender shake drinks; you’ll get hands-on experience crafting four cocktails yourself. Plus, the inclusion of an Italian-inspired dinner and sharing board elevates the evening from a simple drink session to a full-blown food and drink event. And at a reasonable price for this kind of experience, it feels like good value for money.

One thing to consider is that this experience isn’t suitable for guests with allergies or intolerances, which could be a dealbreaker for some. It’s also a private tour, so you’ll be with just your group—more intimate, but less of a party vibe if you’re looking for a large social gathering. Still, if you’re after a well-organized, engaging night with a focus on quality drinks and tasty food, this tour will likely leave you satisfied.

This experience works best for adults who enjoy a mix of learning, socialising, and good food—perfect for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a memorable night out without the hassle of planning.

Key Points

• Interactive and hands-on cocktail masterclass, with each guest making their own drinks
• Includes a welcoming aperitivo cocktail and a full Italian-style sharing board
• Expert guidance from a knowledgeable mixologist who demonstrates fundamental techniques
• Food options for vegetarians and vegans ensure everyone’s tastes are catered for
• Close to public transportation for easy access in Manchester
• Two hours of fun, learning, and tasting at a reasonable price point

What to Expect from the Manchester Cocktail Class

This private cocktail class is a great way to spend a couple of hours in Manchester, especially if you’re into drinks, food, or just looking for a lively, social experience. It’s run by Dirextra Manchester Experiences, a company with some solid reviews and a reputation for engaging activities. From the moment you arrive at Sicilian NQ—a cozy and stylish restaurant and bar—you’re welcomed into a warm, friendly atmosphere.

The Structure of the Experience

The class kicks off with a welcome aperitivo cocktail, which is a nice touch—setting the mood and giving everyone a taste of what’s to come. Then, your mixologist guides you through a masterclass on four cocktails. During this part, you’ll learn the basics of mixology—covering techniques like shaking, stirring, and garnishing—and see some demonstrations.

What makes this experience stand out is the interactive approach. Each participant gets behind the bar to craft their own drinks, which is perfect for those who prefer a more experiential activity rather than just watching. Everyone gets to taste their creations, so no one leaves empty-handed. The instructor is described as knowledgeable and friendly, making the class both informative and relaxed.

The Food and Drink

After the cocktail demonstrations, you’re treated to an Italian-style sharing board. Think ham, cheese, olives, focaccia, garlic bread, arancini, pizzette, bruschette, and crocchette. Vegetarian and vegan options are available, making it a good choice for diverse dietary preferences. The food is described as delicious and well-presented, adding a satisfying meal to the evening.

The night wraps up with a “grand finale” shot of limoncello, which adds a fun, celebratory touch to the experience. Reviewers have raved about the quality of the cocktails and food, calling them “absolutely stunning” and “like nothing I’ve had before.”

The Atmosphere and Group Size

Being a private experience, your group will have exclusive access, which makes it feel more intimate and relaxed. The overall vibe seems to be friendly and welcoming, thanks to the staff and the setting. The activity lasts about two hours, so it’s long enough to feel indulgent without dragging on too much.

Price and Value

At $54.75 per person, this experience offers decent value, especially considering the food, drinks, expert guidance, and the private setting. The reviews consistently highlight the good value for money, with many guests mentioning they’d happily return.

Potential Drawbacks

The main limitation is that the venue does not accommodate guests with allergies or intolerances, which could be a concern if you or someone in your party has specific dietary restrictions. Plus, since this is a private activity, it might not suit those looking for a lively, large-group party scene—more of an elegant, social experience.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

If you’re keen on learning how to make cocktails in a relaxed setting, this class is a perfect pick. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups of friends, or colleagues wanting a fun, memorable evening. It’s also a great option for celebrations like birthdays or special occasions, given the intimate and personalized nature of the experience.

People who appreciate good food and drinks, and enjoy a bit of socialising without loud club vibes, will find this a satisfying escape. It’s not aimed at families with children or large party groups, but rather for adults who want quality, craft cocktails and tasty bites in a cozy setting.

FAQs

Is this a private experience?
Yes, it’s a private tour, meaning only your group will participate, which keeps the atmosphere intimate and relaxed.

How long does the class last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to learn, make cocktails, and enjoy your food.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
The experience offers vegetarian and vegan options for the Italian sharing board, but they do not accommodate guests with allergies or intolerances due to health and safety policies.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket includes a welcome aperitivo cocktail, a masterclass on four cocktails led by a mixologist, the chance to make and drink your own concoctions, and an Italian-sharing dinner.

Is this suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class covers fundamental cocktail techniques and is designed to be interactive, so no prior experience is needed.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Where does the experience start and end?
It begins at Sicilian NQ on Turner Street and ends back at the same location, making it easy to plan your evening.

Wrapping It Up

This private cocktail making class offers a well-rounded experience that combines learning, tasting, and socialising in a cozy Manchester setting. It’s a smart choice if you’re after something more than just drinks at a bar—an engaging activity that leaves you with new skills and a full belly. The expert guidance, delicious Italian food, and interactive format make it stand out, especially given the positive reviews and great value.

If you’re a small group of adults seeking to enjoy an evening of craft cocktails and good company, this experience will likely hit the spot. It’s not just about pouring drinks; it’s about creating memories and maybe even picking up a new hobby. For those who love a casual, friendly atmosphere with quality drinks and tasty bites, this class comes highly recommended.

Feel like trying your hand at cocktail magic in Manchester? This private class could be just what you’re looking for—a delightful mix of education, indulgence, and fun.