Sammy’s bar owner said it was a “difficult decision” but the bar is “officially no longer”

11:46, 18 Jul 2025Updated 11:46, 18 Jul 2025

Retro themed bar Sammy’s in Ancoats has closed

The owner of a retro Ancoats bar has announced it is “officially no longer” after addressing “hurtful allegations” made against him in recent months.

Sammy’s bar on Swan Street opened in 2019 and swiftly became a big hit with revellers, thanks to its 1970s bright yellow decor, quirky furnishings and array of cocktails.

The late-night bar was the brainchild of owner Sammy Shonn, which started as a passion project following his return to Manchester after working on London’s restaurant scene.

He was inspired by Wes Anderson movies and other 70s imagery, with racks holding vintage magazines, retro Ercol tables, vintage Tretchikoff prints and old black and white portable TVs and drinks served from a 1960s cabinet.

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But in recent months a string of serious allegations about Shonn were made, some of which were published by a local news site.

Negative reviews were also posted about the venue on social media platforms.

Now Shonn has issued a statement to say he has now sold the bar space, as well as addressing the “hurtful allegations” of recent weeks.

He also added that the new owners will announce what they have planned for the space soon.

In the statement posted to the bar’s Instagram stories, he wrote: “It’s with regret that I inform you Sammy’s is officially no longer.

“Whilst I vehemently maintain my total innocence against all of the hurtful allegations made against me and my character in a recent online smear campaign, for my own mental wellbeing, I’ve made the difficult decision to sell the bar, along with all its associated assets, including this social media account.

“Thank you to everyone for your customer, your love and your support since 2019. Together we created something special.

“I am now transferring this account to the new owners, who I am sure will post something shortly regarding their plans.”

The @SammysMcr Instagram account, which has 11.5k followers, has now been wiped of all previous posts

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