AO Arena Unveils The Mezz

The Mezz at AO Arena As AO Arena undergoes its major, transformational redevelopment, the venue announces the launch of The Mezz; a brand-new suite, premium bar and restaurant, set for completion in early 2024 and open for bookings from May 2023. News of this latest, state-of-the-art offering comes as AO Arena continues to expand and elevate its entire premium portfolio, delivering the next level in exclusive luxury experiences in the heart of Manchester city centre.

The Mezz is the new and exclusive, members-only level at Manchester’s iconic, award winning venue. Opening early 2024, The Mezz promises to take guests above and beyond the show. With two connected experiences, The Mezz’s bar and restaurant, guests can expect the very best modern British cuisine, champagne, fine wines, signature cocktails and post show entertainment.

The Mezz restaurant will showcase freshly prepared modern dishes with local, seasonal ingredients, complemented by an expertly-crafted wine list and impeccable service timed to perfection. Master mixologists will man the bar at The Mezz, delivering champagne, mocktails and cocktails accompanied with snacks and sharing platters. After the show, The Mezz bar will stay open with a DJ on the decks to keep the party going. From The Mezz, guests will have an unrivalled view of the arena bowl and world famous stage, as well as direct access to the best seats in the house. The Mezz at AO Arena will be the ultimate space to kick-start, and end a night of live entertainment.

AO Arena's VIP entrance area

Jen Mitchell, General Manager at AO Arena commented, “With our redevelopment works well underway, we are absolutely delighted to announce the launch of The Mezz. A stunning new suite, premium bar and restaurant for guests, right here in Manchester city centre. And of course, there will be access to watch the shows from some of the best seats in the house. We’re incredibly proud to be elevating AO Arena as we drive ahead to a bright future, so it’s fantastic to be able to reveal this latest addition in the works, as part of our state-of-the-art premium portfolio.”



AO Arena is home to a rich portfolio of suites, VIP lounges and bars, offering an entertainment experience like no other. The portfolio also includes:

The Beautiful North

The Beautiful North at the AO Arena

The Beautiful North is AO Arena’s new and exclusive premium super suite. Offering a 50-show membership package, a spectacular view of the stage from dedicated balcony seating and premium drinks inclusive, and grazing small plates crafted by the suite’s executive chef, The Beautiful North hosts up to 34 guests.

Delivering an unmatched arena experience, The Beautiful North Suite is the ideal space for entertaining and networking. Members will get tickets for any 50 shows, a dedicated parking space and a warm welcome from The Beautiful North’s private host before enjoying drinks perfectly served at the exclusive bar.

AO Electric Lounge

The AO Electric Lounge

Undergoing a stunning revamp in early 2022 for an elevated experience, guests can add extra sparkle to their visit to AO Arena, by upgrading to a Champagne Experience at the AO Electric Lounge. Suitable for couples and small groups, the package offers a dedicated VIP entrance, fast-track early entry to the AO Electric Lounge, a glass of champagne and a sharing charcuterie board, and some of the best seats in the house located just one block from the stage.

Heineken Sky Lounge

The Heineken Sky Lounge boasts unbeatable, iconic views over Manchester’s skyline and a buzzing atmosphere to match. The ultimate pre-show hangout, guests arrive via the bar’s own private entrance on the Hunts Bank side of the arena and can then enjoy an ice-cold beer or drink before the show. With prices starting at £30 per person, guests can enjoy exclusive pre-show access to this premium lounge before heading through to watch the show. NB: customers must have a valid ticket for the show before purchasing this upgrade.

The Mezz is the latest addition to the AO Arena as part of the long-term vision and investment to future-proof Manchester’s premier live entertainment venue as it looks ahead to an exciting future in the heart of the action in Manchester. As part of the major redevelopment works, customers will see upgraded concourse areas with revamped bars and refreshed, quality new menu offerings, catering for diverse and evolving food and drinks requirements for all guests, opening throughout 2023 and into 2024. Plus, within the main arena bowl, the floor space is being expanded to allow for increased capacity.

AO Arena is operated by ASM Global, the world’s leading producer of entertainment experiences, venue management and event strategy. Within the UK, ASM Global also operates and manages OVO Arena Wembley, First Direct Arena, Olympia London, P&J Live, Utilita Arena Newcastle, Bonus Arena, York Barbican and more.

The AO Arena bowl redevelopment, image of a packed music concert