Caffeine Hunter

Manchester · Withington

Something More Productive

A worn wooden table at Something More Productive with a jar of brown sugar, a glass bottle holding eucalyptus leaves and a menu on a clipboard, with bright orange chairs behind

Theo Tobias opened Something More Productive in September 2023 in a former record shop on the Withington high street, aiming for a welcoming, unfussy room that suits students, families, residents and professionals alike. His cockapoo Roscoe is a familiar face at the door, and the coffee comes from independent roasters including Kobean and Swan Song, served in handmade ceramic mugs designed with local artists.

The menu leans vegetarian, with seasonal soups, loaded sandwiches and pastries from independent Manchester bakeries. When the day winds down the cafe turns into a neighbourhood bar with monthly jazz nights, wine tastings and quiz nights, and there is outdoor seating for sunny afternoons.