The 30 Best Restaurants In Manchester, UK

Welcome to Manchester, one of the most prominent cities in Northern England and a place famed countrywide for its vibrant gastronomic culture. Whether you're a local wanting to explore more hidden gems or a visitor to the city hoping to get a feel for the vast array of eateries, this list will surely inspire you to visit some of the great spots this special city has to offer. Along with all the best fine-dining establishments, we're taking a look at the under-the-radar culinary secrets in the suburbs and the boundary-pushing bistros in the lush countryside surrounding the city.

There's something for everyone in Manchester, whether you're craving a juicy burger, Spanish-style tapas, comforting pasta, Indian street food, contemporary Chinese cuisine, or elegantly plated gourmet seafood. Looking for a memorable restaurant with the "wow" factor, complete with a Michelin-starred tasting menu? No problem. Or are you just looking for a trendy place to hang out with friends with meals you can enjoy despite differing dietary preferences? We've got you covered. Are you prepared to get incredibly hungry while reading? If so, what are you waiting for? let's take a food tour around Greater Manchester.

Arguably the most attractive restaurant in Manchester, The Refuge can be found inside the landmark Kimpton Clocktower Hotel. The dining space is gigantic, with several distinct areas. There's the public bar, a perfect hang-out spot with coffee, board games, and jazz/blues DJs, depending on the hour. There's also the Winter Garden, a light-flooded atrium with comfy couches. Last but by no means least, there's the classic dining room.

 Sunday lunch at The Refuge is pretty famous locally, but the small plates are also fantastic — we recommend the Gochujang-glazed pork belly or octopus with herby saag and charred tomato. Likewise, the desserts are worth the hype, particularly the sticky toffee pudding with orange miso caramel and milk ice cream.

Opened by seasoned Manchester chefs, Another Hand in Deansgate is all about local, ethical food. The eatery describes the food as "veggie led," sourcing its vegetables from small suppliers such as the community-run Platt Fields market garden and Cinderwoods, a compact, one-acre regenerative farming project.

As expected from a restaurant focused so intensely on local produce, the menu changes regularly, depending on the available crops. Morning-goers should try one of the cult-status sandwiches made with Holy Grain Sourdough bread and whey butter. In the evening, it's all about embracing the community feeling and sampling as many flavors as possible, so expect to order an array of small plates for the table. We'll leave the exact choices up to you — everything's great here.

Over 30 years ago, when Greens opened, vegetarian food wasn't as readily accessible. Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer, the pioneer behind Greens, saw a gap in the market, and the eatery is still going strong today — so much so that a new location opened nearby in Sale in 2022.

Casual, affordable, and uncomplicated food inspired by global flavors is the modus operandi of Greens. Menu options mix cuisines, yet they remain cohesive. Our favorites include a riff on duck pancakes made with deep-fried oyster mushrooms, spring onions, and plum sauce; crispy tofu in aromatic katsu curry with jasmine rice; and vegan sausages with colcannon, gravy, and tomato chutney. If you're visiting for lunch, try the small-plate menu, which is an ideal way to sample multiple dishes.

Pizza is a worldwide phenomenon likely first initiated in Naples, Italy. When other countries adopted Italian food, different types of pizza were born, though many people insist that original Neapolitan pizza is still the best there is. One of those preserving the art of Neapolitan pizza is Rudy's Pizza, which opened its first restaurant in Ancoats, Manchester in 2015. Today, it has several locations across the North of England and has even spread to the South, too.

True to its origin, Rudy's Pizza uses a "00" flour dough to create the characteristic thin base with a charred and bubbly crust. In addition to starters, you can choose from over 12 varieties, including a vegan option with fennel "sausage," caramelized onions, and basil "cheese" sauce. There's also a fiery affair with wild boar salami, spicy 'nduja, and sweet roquito peppers.

For a top class dining experience, head just north of the city center towards Ancoats, a trendy area distinguished by its food scene. Walk along the small, industrial-era streets until you arrive at Mana, which is currently the only restaurant in Manchester boasting a coveted Michelin star.

You'll have to make a reservation well in advance, but it's worth the wait. Each table in the dining area offers a view of the open kitchen, creating a theatrical experience. The food is also full of understated drama; expect flavors that challenge your taste buds and excite your senses, presented with pomp and flair. If you want to visit a restaurant that makes a lasting impression, it's worth saving up for this exceptional experience.

Mumbai, the financial center of India, has a delightful secret: Hidden in the alleyways are dozens of Irani cafes opened by the Zoroastrian refugees who made the city their home. Manchester restaurant Dishoom follows these traditions in more ways than one. Not only does the food pay homage to Irani-Indian cuisine, but it's also hidden in one of the city's most fascinating buildings — the 1920s, Grade II listed Manchester Hall, which was once a secret meeting spot for the Freemasons.

Walking into Manchester Dishoom is like being transported to mid-20th century Mumbai. The air carries a subtle waft of incense, the melodies of Indian jazz dance through the rooms, coy signs in Hindi catch the attention, and the walls proudly display old photographs narrating tales of bygone days. The menu offers treats such as akuri, bun maska, and keema per eedu (with soft, fluffy pav) for breakfast. For mains, tuck into our favorite: Mumbai vada pav to start, followed by chole puri served with sweet sooji halwa.

It's unusual to find an authentic Eastern European restaurant that showcases the comforting, diverse cuisine of the region through a gourmet yet accessible lens. Wander around the newly established Green Quarter (which is situated behind Victoria Station and is popular with couples and young professionals) and you'll soon stumble upon The Spärrows.

Don't be fooled by the casual appearance — this place has been awarded a prestigious Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide. The food, although simple, is spectacular. The menu changes seasonally but always features classics such as homemade Polish pierogi, Italian gnocchi, and German spätzle (fresh egg pasta) served with your choice of sauce. Wine connoisseurs will be interested to know that the wine list features lesser-known varieties from Poland, Hungary, and further afield.

Those seeking glamor and sophistication should head to the glitzy financial center of Manchester, Spinningfields. There you'll find a stunning restaurant named Tattu. The interior design is jaw-dropping: Intricately carved screens, dark timber, twinkling lights, and — the pièce de résistance — a real cherry blossom tree.

Depending on the occasion, you can choose from several menus. At the higher end are set tasting menus (vegetarian included), while a "choose three" lunch is more casual, and à la carte offers the most choice. The food at Tattu is modern Chinese, theatrically presented. Expect all your favorites — steamed and fried dim sum, meat, seafood, tender vegetables, rice, and noodles — but elevated to an entirely new echelon of cookery. Reviewers recommend the seven-spiced seared tuna with caviar, rich truffle aioli, and citrus ponzu.

Many cultures hold potato pancakes in high regard, from classic Jewish latke to Irish boxty. For chefs Przemek Marcinkowski and Lukasz Mazurek, their love for traditional Polish potato pancakes kickstarted the eatery we now know as Platzki (named after the dish). "We are perfectionists in everything we do," says the restaurant's website. "[We] believe that food deserves respect, and so our ingredients are fresh and ethically sourced."

While the menu varies, you can almost always guarantee some variety of potato pancakes topped with sour cream, delicately cooked fish, and beautiful garnishes. Gołąbki, Polish cabbage rolls, are another classic — anticipate a rich accompanying jus, fresh berries, herbs, and root vegetables. People new to Polish cuisine will leave in awe of the well-rounded flavors, while anyone who misses traditional Polish home cooking will find a home away from home.

Hispi may have racked up the accolades (the restaurant won an esteemed AA Rosette award for culinary excellence in 2023), but there's nothing pretentious or fussy about the food. This place is an example of highlighting British ingredients in an understated, delicious way. The menus are reasonably priced, offering two or three courses for a set price plus optional sides (the purple carrots with puffed rice shouldn't be missed).

What's great about Hispi is that it also offers dedicated menus for those with special dietary requirements, including gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan. More than an afterthought, the options are carefully crafted. Reviewers specifically rave about the Sunday lunch, which includes options such as stuffed and rolled pork belly, roast beef with all the trimmings, king oyster mushrooms with kale ragout, and crispy carrot cakes.

The imposing Midland Hotel exudes Edwardian elegance and grandeur, standing proudly opposite Manchester's Central Library. The hotel hosts several dining destinations, but most notable is Adam Reid at The French, a renowned fine-dining spot that boasts an impressive total of four AA Rosettes. Manchester-born Adam Reid, a former winner of Manchester Food Festival's Chef of the Year award, is the mastermind behind the menu, which features his characteristic "contemporary British" style.

Contrasting the opulent and moody dining room is wit and Northern humor abound; warm bread with nourishing broth is labeled a "Northern welcome," cold cuts and salty pickles are described as "yesterday's dinner," while Cumbrian short loin with fish eggs and seaweed is "today's tea." All cooked to perfection, of course.

Sometimes, great things come in unassuming packages. That's the case with Erst, an industrial, minimalist, Scandinavian-style eatery found in Ancoats, an area known for its industrial past. Before Erst, the team of friends behind it ran Trove, a still-active bakery famous for its artisan sourdough and brunch selection. After realizing they wanted to explore beyond brunch, Erst was born: a small-plate restaurant and bar.

The menu isn't available ahead of time, but, true to its roots, Erst never skimps on the bread. Bubbling, charred, and subtly flavored flatbread with whipped lardo is nearly always on offer and a must-order, especially when eaten alongside earthy artichokes, pickled mussels cooked in tender leeks and cider, or salt-sprinkled, olive-oil-drizzled tomatoes with buffalo ricotta.

When it comes to the restaurant in Manchester with the best view, there's no disputing which eatery would take home the award. 20 Stories in Spinningfields, despite its name, is actually 19 floors up, offering breathtaking 360 views of the Manchester skyline. For a remarkable experience, book a table at sunset to witness vibrant colors and twinkling lights. Just remember to dress to impress, as there is a dress code.

Regarding the food, 20 Stories offers various menus: Afternoon tea, pre-theatre, lunch, dinner, tasting (including vegan), and à la carte. The rooftop terrace has a smaller, casual menu ideal for socializing, while the main restaurant is perfect for special occasions. The bar stocks an extensive list of drinks for pre-dinner tipples, including non-alcoholic cocktails and spirits.

Tender, crisp, vibrant green asparagus drizzled with herbed chimichurri and bold romesco sauce. Crispy squid with zesty lemon aioli. Fried ibérico ham croquettes with a creamy, melted interior and golden-brown crumb. If these dishes remind you of Spain in summer, you wouldn't be wrong — El Gato Negro (The Black Cat) seeks to transform traditional Spanish tapas into a modern dining experience. 

Spanning three floors of an old Manchester townhouse, El Gato Negro Tapas has al-fresco, European-style outdoor seating for warm days, a bar serving up the finest Spanish wine and liquor, a "chef's table" within full view of the open kitchen, and an airy terrace with a retractable canopy. It's the perfect place for a date night or catch up with delicious food.

Bhaji Pala, a newcomer to Manchester's dining scene, has made waves since its 2019 debut, earning accolades like the best vegetarian Asian restaurant in North England in 2020 and vegan restaurant of the year in 2021.Beyond its vegan offerings, Bhaji Pala celebrates the authentic cuisine of Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.

In addition to crowd pleasers such as Punjabi Samosa, rare delights await, such as bharli vangi (spice-stuffed baby eggplant in a rich peanut sauce), naachni roti (finger millet flatbread), and ukdiche modak (sweet dumplings with jaggery and coconut). To showcase the lesser-known, diverse flavors of India, Bhaji Pala also features regional thali feast platters, complete with starters, mains, bread, and dessert.

Gourmet fine dining menus, specifically tasting menus, are renowned for being unattainably expensive to the masses. However, Six by Nico in Manchester is the perfect way to experience the glamor of fine dining without a hefty price tag.

The restaurant's name is indicative of its menus – six courses, changing every six weeks. Menus are always themed and inspired by travel, memory, or tradition. The most famous theme, "The Chippie," takes a classic British meal and elevates it; chips and cheese transform into a crisp potato terrine with curry oil and airy parmesan foam, while the meal ends with a deep-fried mars bar served with Irn-Bru sorbet and luscious chocolate pave. Regardless of which menu is running, it's well worth checking out.

The Laundrette in Chorlton is currently rated Manchester's number one restaurant on TripAdvisor. The people have spoken, and it's clear that this eatery's impeccable service, lively atmosphere, and fun comfort food have impressed reviewers. That's not to mention the house-made gin and incredible selection of cocktails, some of which are served in miniature bathtubs.

With a motto like "cocktails and carbs," you can bet the menu is full of indulgent comfort foods. Pick from choices including buttermilk fried chicken burgers with chipotle mayo, popcorn halloumi with sticky truffled honey, gooey 'nduja truffled mac and cheese, zucchini fries, and Korean BBQ pizza with fresh herbs and chili. Save room for dessert, as you won't want to miss the chocolate brownie, the hot toffee, or the strawberry shortcake sundae.

Spearheaded by the same team that brought Hispi into the limelight, Kala Bistro opened in 2019 and unsurprisingly shot to almost instant success. With an AA Rosette to its name, this hip, stylish restaurant has garnered praise from critics and the public; reviews describe the food as "out of this world" and "relaxed fine dining."

While some popular dishes feature on both Hispi and Kala's menus, this centrally located eatery is its own entity. A long, open-kitchen stretches across one wall, where diners can watch the chefs prepare tempting dishes such as roasted celeriac with creamy black bean hummus and salsa macho (from the bistro menu), or crispy ribeye pork with fresh salad, charred pineapple, and sour cream (from the main menu). We're suddenly very hungry!

As a meat lover, there's nothing better than a Brazilian rodizio. If you're unfamiliar, it's an all-you-can-eat restaurant with a twist; the grilled meat is brought directly to your table and carved on the spot. At Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill, the selection of meats varies depending on lunch or dinner service, and a separate halal menu is available if necessary. 

Among the luxurious Brazilian steakhouse meats served at Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill are pork collar with honey, beef tenderloin, chicken hearts, fiery wagyu beef sausage, and lamb cap of rump with herbs and garlic. In addition to the selection of meats, your meal includes a range of Brazilian and Argentinian side dishes, sauces, salad, and charcuterie. Finish off with a dessert and exquisite wines.

Nestled among the bustling kebab shops and hookah bars, the family-run Walnut Persian Restaurant is a hidden gem offering sophisticated decor, a calm ambiance, and delightful food. Located on Wilmslow Road, at the heart of an area known as the Curry Mile, the family-run Walnut Persian Restaurant may have a lot of competition, but the food speaks for itself.

Stop by for fresh mazeh (small side dishes), including hummus, marinated olives, and smoked aubergine. For something heavier, we recommend traditional Persian gheymeh stew (lamb flavored with spices, aubergine, lentils, and tomato) or a mixed grill platter with freshly baked fluffy naan. Vegetarians can choose from herby, zesty dishes with hearty vegetables and pulses. Finish on a sweet note with bamiyeh (syrup-soaked doughnuts).

When ordering food at Namii Kitchen & Cocktails, you'll struggle not to request the whole menu. King prawn and soft-shell crab tempura with an umami-rich, sour dipping sauce; chicken wings marinated overnight with lemongrass; refreshing summer rolls with sticky sweet tofu, zesty herbs, and salty-sweet hoisin sauce — and these are only starters. The rest of the menu offers wok-tossed noodles, grilled meats, crunchy vegetables, sticky rice, and slow-cooked aromatic pho broth.

Luckily, Namii Kitchen & Cocktails recommends ordering food to share with the table, making it an ideal place to take a large group of friends. Cocktails (plus mocktails), neon signs, and lush foliage add to the fun, lively atmosphere. Find the eatery on New York Street, in Manchester city center.

Bringing the taste of sunny Catalonia to Manchester, Tast Cuina Catalana is a minimally decorated, stylish restaurant in the central district. Although Spain is most famous for tapas, everything is done differently in Catalonia, including the food.

Small dishes are known as "tastets" and focus on the local produce of the area. Modernized and gorgeously presented, there's something for everyone — fried calamari with dramatic squid ink mayonnaise, bao buns filled with decadent wagyu brisket and traditional beef sauce, and roasted pepper croquettes are among the delights available here. The real standout, though, are the dishes cooked on charcoal. For example, there's Catalan-style rice, with its distinctive crispy crust and whole lamb leg accompanied by root vegetables.

Everyone who has dined at Osma in Prestwich will agree it's worth venturing off the beaten path. This place is unashamedly Scandinavian-inspired, from the moody decor to the open-faced sandwiches piled high with herbs, spreads, meats, and seafood for lunch. It's no surprise that we see hints of Norway, considering that the two female chefs behind the endeavor named the restaurant after their hometowns; Oslo and Manchester. 

When the light begins to dim, the menu at Osma becomes decidedly sophisticated. Small plates highlighting fresh ingredients were enough to impress the Michelin guide, earning a coveted spot. The menu changes weekly, thus never turning stale and always offering something new, but it's worth noting that Osma cannot cater to vegan or dairy-free requirements.

Manchester is a city with splendorous brick-and-stone monoliths every way you turn. Perhaps the most impressive of all the restaurants in Manchester is Grand Pacific, boasting commanding floor-to-ceiling windows, wood-paneled roofs, twinkling chandeliers, and huge tropical plants. The restaurant describes its atmosphere as a "homage to the golden age high society," and we agree — it's sure to impress. 

As for the food, it's Asian-inspired fine dining. Imagine roast seabream and mussels with a fragrant green curry broth and salty samphire, lamb massaman in soft roti with curry salt, or crisp vegetable gyoza in a silky, unctuous mushroom dashi broth. Grand Pacific also has one of the best high teas in Manchester, complete with savory sandwiches, tempting desserts, and freshly steeped tea.

It's time to hop on the tram (or train) to Stockport to visit Where the Light Gets In. The restaurant occupies the loft of an old coffee warehouse, lending a delightfully hip feeling to the open-plan dining space. We're not the only ones who think so — the eatery has three AA Rosettes and has also received a Michelin Green Star for sustainability. 

Due to its emphasis on naturally grown seasonal produce, Where the Light Gets In does not provide a rigid tasting menu; instead, it changes depending on the availability of ingredients from local farms and the fishermen supplying the restaurant. We can tell you this much: Expect an interplay of textures, refined flavors, and the freshest of ingredients.

There are a few memorable steakhouses in Manchester, but one that never fails to be brought up is Hawksmoor. Located in a reclaimed Victorian courthouse on one of the city's main thoroughfares, the ambiance here is effortlessly relaxed and classy.

You can expect a perfectly cooked filet, rib eye, sirloin, or rump served with traditional sauces of your choice (we recommend the peppercorn), triple-cooked chips, creamed spinach, or extra bone marrow (and many more alternatives). Aside from the best meat in town, Hawksmoor distinguishes itself with the outstanding array of seafood on offer. Most famous are the briny Jersey Rock scallops, though you may also be tempted by succulent lobster swimming in garlic butter or seabream subtly seasoned with lemon, chili, and garlic.

As one of the premier destinations for vegetarians and vegans in Manchester, The Allotment Vegan Eatery has developed a reputation for being the place to celebrate. Found directly opposite the gorgeous Manchester Cathedral, in warmer months, the outdoor dining tables provide a peaceful and scenic view over the cathedral and old medieval quarter.

The menu, although small, is as delicious as it is varied, hopping between modern Asian cuisine, traditional British, and American comfort-food classics. Reviewers consistently laud the crispy cauliflower wings with spicy sriracha mayo. Other dishes worth trying are the best-selling jackfruit tacos with guacamole, described as spicy with a "smokey edge," and the tofu laksa with courgette noodles in a spicy lemongrass-flavored broth, delicious with crispy poppadoms.

We so often overlook hotels when considering a new restaurant to explore. In this case, that would be a massive mistake. Welcome to The Alan, a modest-sized hotel snuggled in the center of Manchester, directly opposite the Manchester Art Gallery. The eatery, called Dine + Drink, is not to be missed.

The open-plan dining room is gorgeous, featuring exposed brickwork with plenty of light, white marble tabletops, and a sleek design. The meals are no different; elegantly plated mushrooms with vibrant wild garlic, whey butter, and a bed of ancient grains sing, as does a delicate whipped cod's roe accompanied by slivers of radish and crispy rosti. And for oyster fans, there's a real treat: Happy hour (between 3:30 pm and 6:30 pm) offers Cumbrae oysters for just £1 a shuck.

Ancoats, known as Manchester's "Little Italy," has been home to Italian families since the 1800s. As a result, it is awash with Italian restaurants. One of the best is SUD Pasta, a restaurant pulling from its heritage to serve rustic dishes hailing from Southern Italy.

As you probably guessed from the name, the focus here is pasta. And boy, is the pasta good. Indulge in orecchiette, which cradles a 'nduja ragu, beef shin, and pork shoulder, or enjoy trofie twists with king prawns, Shetland mussels, and squid, sweetened with bursts of tomato. If you're seeking something lighter, opt for shells with artichoke, sweet asparagus, fava, cooling mint, and creamy ricotta. Oh, and don't miss the panna cotta — it's exceptional.