Afflecks is kicking off the summer months in style as we welcome a whole host of exciting new traders to their third floor. New traders include a Simpsons themed cafe: ‘Desert Island Dumplings’, who will be slinging delicious, vegan fusion dumplings, as well as Tokyo Go, Dub Merchant, Higher Vibe Tribe, and Sea92. Our popular resident plant, book, and workshop City & Bloom have also expanded into a larger space. These traders have all moved into the old Doll Parts’ unit; and for the first time ever, this area of the third floor will be permanently trading on Sundays. 

After regular slots at GRUB MCR and residencies at Stretford Foodhall and Sadlers Cat, Desert Island Dumplings has opened its first ever bricks and mortar site. The Desert Island Dumplings team has built a large and loyal customer base ever since they began serving their delicious dumplings to the people of Manchester, and are now welcoming guests to their Simpson themed space. 

Kitted out with an uber cool Simpsons themed unit, which includes the likes of a vintage game cube that guests can play unlimited games of ‘The Simpsons: Hit & Run’ on; school desks and a chalkboard reminiscent of Springfield Elementary; and painted clouds cascading across the wall, Desert Island Dumplings is the ultimate city centre hang-out for cartoon fanatics. The menu includes breakfast, brunch, and lunch, served from 10AM-6PM everyday. Breakfast dishes include the Legendary Breakfast Dumplings (filled with garlic mushrooms, vegan sausage, hash browns, and beans), as well as Overnight Blueberry Dumplings, served with syrup, jam, or icing sugar.  There’s also savoury lunchtime favourites, such as the OG Cheezburger dumplings (made with juicy soy & pea protein patties, griddled onions, vegan cheese, house relish and gherkins), and Salt and Pepper Chikn dumplings (soy chikn chunks, with blend of sesame, garlic, salt and pepper seasoning with fresh bell pepper and onion) up for grabs, as well as a host of sides including hash browns and drunk udon noodles. 

Lucy Linford owner of Desert Island Dumplings said:

“Opening the first Desert Island Dumplings permanent fixture in Afflecks has been a dream come true. Afflecks continues to be a trailblazer for independent businesses in Manchester, and we’ve loved getting to know all of the other fantastic traders who have inspired us with their unique journeys. Find us on the third floor serving your vegan fusion dumpling fix - we’ll be here for the foreseeable…” 

Also opening up on the third floor are anime and kawaii-themed shop Tokyo Go. After Japanese fashion has transcended geographical boundaries over the past few years, and is now recognised by fans worldwide, the Tokyo Go team hope to create a brand new community for Manchester anime super fans. Tokyo Go offers a range of officially licensed Sanrio items, who are known for the creation of iconic brands such as Hello Kitty and My Melody. From apparel and accessories to stationery and lifestyle products, Tokyo Go’s extensive collection of retail items is sure to captivate anyone with an affinity for any beloved characters within the anime world. 

Reggae and soul music lovers can also rejoice, as independent traders Dub Merchant have also recently opened their doors in Afflecks. The offering includes a wide range of memorabilia that celebrates Afro-Caribbean and African-American music, including t-shirts, bags, and posters. 

A reiki healing and wellbeing room Higher Vibe Tribe is also now open, bringing a completely one-of-a-kind offering to Afflecks’ bohemian environment. Higher Vibe Tribe offers two different experiences: a Pyramid Meditation Room and Reiki Treatment. Both treatments are designed to increase relaxation, reduce stress, and stimulate the body’s own natural healing abilities. Those looking to heal their inner peace should book an appointment by visiting @higher.vibe.tribe on Instagram. 

Plant shop City & Bloom, who have become an integral part of our community since joining in October 2022, have also recently expanded into a larger unit and space. The team have created a collaborative, creative community within Manchester’s horticulture scene, and stock a huge range of indoor plants as well as one-off, hand-made homewares. City & Bloom’s expansion also means there’s now plenty more room for anyone who wants to join their regular workshops. 

Sea moss gel company Sea92 has taken over the old City & Bloom unit on the third floor. Owner Keano Deacon’s passion for sea moss and its health benefits stemmed from his career as a professional footballer, having always focused on maintaining a clean lifestyle and experimenting with health and wellness trends. Sea92 sells 100% Organic Sea Moss in different forms and infusions making it an all round immunity booster and a great natural source of energy. Their supply comes directly from the Caribbean (St. Lucia) and is sun dried and soaked in alkaline water with fresh lemons to preserve all the minerals and nutrients.

AJ Martyn, Afflecks’ General Manager, said:

“We couldn’t be happier to see our family of independent, creative traders here at Afflecks expanding. Following the success story of Doll Parts who graduated from the building and into their own premises, we had the opportunity to reimagine a large section of the building and split it into several smaller units. This allowed us to offer more opportunities for new small businesses, give greater variety for our customers and restore the area back into the bustling thoroughfare of small shops Afflecks has always been known for.”