The best bars in Manchester city centre

Discover this upscale industrial-themed sports bar tucked away behind Albert Square, where you can watch all your favourite matches, even the most niche ones. They cater to every sport imaginable, screening everything from football and golf to rugby, roller derby, and more. Enjoy their basement games area featuring foosball tables, cosy private booths with individual screens available for booking, and a mezzanine room designed as an ode to an old gentleman's club.

Sora, located in Deansgate, is the perfect bar for stunning city views, sophisticated cocktails, and pan-Asian food. With elegant decor, including wall art, and large windows overlooking the city, it's the perfect place to relax with drinks and small plates. The menu is filled with Asian-inspired cocktails, sushi, robata-grilled dishes, and desserts.

Sterling is a hidden gem in Manchester's former Stock Exchange bank vault, serving award-winning drinks and snacks. It's a sibling of the renowned Schofield's Bar and is known for its roaring 20s glamour, sleek design, and live music nights. Enjoy original Prohibition-era cocktails and global spirits alongside a selection of bar snacks. 

Set against exposed brick walls and original Victorian fixtures, Arcane is an atmospheric place to enjoy a drink. The bar has a comfortable drawing room vibe, accentuated by plush furniture and stylish wallpaper. Whether you're a fan of classic cocktails or crave something outside the box, the skilled bar staff are on hand to craft something suited to your palate.

Blinker, named after a forgotten classic cocktail, is a stylish bar decked out with white wall tiles and intimate lamps that light up the wood-panelled bar. Each drink is crafted using seasonal and local ingredients, resulting in inventive twists on old classics and monthly rotations of new cocktails. There are also alcohol-free options and a selection of snacks to choose from.

Doghouse is a beer-themed hotel in Manchester, brought to you by craft beer pioneers BrewDog. It boasts 18 trendy rooms, each offering something unique, such as a bathroom beer fridge, in-room beer taps, and a curated guitar and record collection. Fully embracing its dog-friendly ethos, the bar provides tailored packages for furry guests. There's also a rooftop bar boasting panoramic views of the city and beyond. 

Blind Tyger is a lesser-known drinking spot tucked away within the colourful Mexican bar and restaurant Sandinista. The bar oozes a sophisticated drawing room vibe with its patterned wallpaper, rich wood panelling, and vintage accents. While cocktail masterclasses are a highlight, you can also just drop by for a drink. Choose from a wide selection of options, including expertly-crafted cocktails, draft beer, and fine wine.

Located discreetly on a side street and accessed via a flight of stairs, Corbieres Bar is a spacious hideaway steeped in storied history. Despite its unassuming exterior, there's a vibrant energy about this bar, which attracts a diverse crowd. There's an iconic jukebox and occasional live music performances, as well as a varied selection of drinks alongside pizza, including enticing weekly specials.

Salt Dog Slim's is reminiscent of an authentic American dive bar, offering an energetic space for you to enjoy drinks. From towering steins of German beers to carefully-crafted cocktails, the drink selection caters to all tastes. To go alongside the food, there are Salt Dog Slim's iconic brine hotdogs, served with a choice of condiments, including a spicy option for those craving an extra kick. Beyond drinks and bites, the bar hosts regular quiz nights and various other events.

Salut Wines is an independent wine shop with an on-site wine bar. The selection here is vast and diverse, comprising hundreds of unique bottles. The knowledgeable team is readily available to provide expert guidance and recommendations. Within the cosy confines of the wine bar, guests can sip on wines by the glass alongside food pairings.

Sandinista is a bustling bar offering a menu of Latin- and Mexican-inspired drinks and cuisine inspired by a love of music. The drinks menu features all sorts, including signature margaritas and a rotating selection of beers. From nachos to bean chilli, tacos, burritos, and quesadillas, the food menu caters to both small snacks and heartier meals. The bar and restaurant are set within a stylish space with wood panelling and rustic wooden furniture.

The Alchemist is a chic bar offering all-day dining and inventive cocktails. The bar is sophisticated and elegant, with outdoor seating and a sleek interior with striking dark artwork. The impressive drinks are a highlight here, made with creative and molecular mixology techniques. Meanwhile, the food menu focuses on global flavours.

Founder's Hall is a modern pub in Albert Square that opened in 2024. It's a trendy spot for drinks and dining in the city, with quirky decor and indoor and outdoor seating. The pub serves a vast selection of beers, spirits, cocktails, and food, including bar snacks and meals. There are also regular pub quizzes and special events.

Wood & Company is an underground cocktail bar that, despite being located centrally, offers a retreat from the bustling city centre. With tiled walls and plenty of lamps and candles, the trendy vibe adds to its allure. Inspired by New York, the bar boasts a hip atmosphere and serves classic and modern cocktails alongside a selection of craft beers