The best restaurants in Manchester

The best restaurants in Manchester

Looking for a great restaurant in Manchester? We understand if you're finding it impossible to choose – from Indian street food to Neapolitan pizza, vegan cuisine to fine dining experiences, the city's restaurant scene has a lot to offer. If you're looking for nice restaurants in Manchester, this guide will help to narrow things down. From budget-friendly eats to luxury meals and everything in-between, this is our comprehensive guide to the best restaurants in Manchester.

In this guide
  1. Must-visit restaurants in Manchester
    1. 20 Stories – Prize-winning dining
    2. Erst – Local, seasonal, simple
    3. The Allotment – World-leading vegan cuisine
    4. The Spärrows – Spätzle specialists
    5. Medlock Canteen – Delicious dishes all day
    6. Higher Ground – All about seasonality
    7. Another Hand – Intimate spot serving local ingredients
    8. Bar San Juan – Tapas in Chorlton
    9. Osma – Scandinavian inspirations
    10. 63 Degrees – Elegant French dining
    11. 10 Tib Lane – Seasonal dishes to share
    12. TNQ – Northern Quarter dining hotspot
    13. Hispi – Award-winning Didsbury bistro
    14. Dishoom – Top spot for Indian food
    15. The Black Friar – Historical gastropub
    16. La Bandera – Top Spanish restaurant
    17. Kala Bistro – Bistro with a buzz
    18. James Martin Manchester – Creative seasonal cooking
    19. Australasia – Quiet luxury in Spinningfields
    20. The Edinburgh Castle – Cosy pub dining
    21. Maray – Vibrant Middle Eastern recipes
    22. Asha's – Indian food to share
    23. Grand Pacific – Opulent and original
    24. Elnecot – Imaginative dishes in Ancoats
    25. Don Giovanni – Long-standing Italian favourite
    26. The Ivy – Two destinations in one
    27. Tast Catala – Catalan cooking
    28. The Refuge – Flavours from around the world
    29. El Gato Negro Tapas – Tapas in a townhouse
  2. The best budget-friendly restaurants in Manchester
    1. Double Zero – Some of the best pizza out there
    2. Yuzu Japanese Tapas – Tranquil Japanese restaurant
    3. Rudy's Pizza Napoletana – Homegrown pizza hero
    4. Bundobust – Beers and bites
    5. This & That – Favourite curry house since 1984
    6. Lily's – Well-loved vegetarian restaurant
    7. Habesha – Manchester's original Ethiopian restaurant
    8. I Am Pho – Top restaurant in Chinatown
    9. Mughli – Eat in the Curry Mile
    10. Mowgli Street Food – Leading street food restaurant
    11. New Wave Ramen – Big name in noodles
  3. The best high-end restaurants in Manchester
    1. Mana – Michelin-starred dining in Manchester
    2. Adam Reid at The French – Award-winning British meals
    3. Where The Light Gets In – Celebrating British produce
    4. Lucky Cat – Asian-influenced small plates
    5. Tattu – Lavish Chinese restaurant
    6. Fenix – Experiential Greek dining
    7. Maya – Unique multi-faceted restaurant

Must-visit restaurants in Manchester

20 Stories

Prize-winning dining

Spinningfields restaurant 20 Stories was voted the best restaurant in Manchester in 2023. Its 19th-floor location means you get sweeping views of the city. The place has large windows and a sophisticated style, with private dining space also available. Seasonal British menus are available here, paired with wines from regions around the world.

Erst

Local, seasonal, simple

Seasonal small plates and natural wine are served at Erst in Ancoats. Dishes are prepared with local ingredients and combine simplicity with good quality. The food is made for sharing, and the knowledgeable staff can recommend the ideal wine pairing. The restaurant's decor is elegant and minimalist, enhanced by soft lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere.

The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment
The Allotment – Best restaurants
The Allotment

The Allotment

World-leading vegan cuisine

Award-winning restaurant The Allotment is ranked as one of the best vegan eateries in the world. It's contemporary and rustic with a Mediterranean feel and views of Manchester Cathedral. Colourful and creative vegan dishes from around the world are served here, as well as afternoon tea. Guests can also sample a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

The Spärrows

Spätzle specialists

Specialising in central European cuisine, The Spärrows is recognised as a great restaurant in Manchester. The speciality here is spätzle, served with your choice of sauce. Gnocchi, Polish and Russian dumplings, and fresh pasta are also on the menu, as are dishes to share. Tucked away into a railway arch, it has a friendly atmosphere and indoor and outdoor seating.

Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen
Medlock Canteen – Best restaurants
Medlock Canteen

Medlock Canteen

Delicious dishes all day

Open since 2024, Medlock Canteen quickly became a big hit on Manchester's food scene. This relaxed and friendly venue serves hearty international dishes all day as well as hot drinks, cocktails, and a concise wine list. The venue has a retro style and offers indoor and outdoor seating, plus there's live music to keep diners entertained.

Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground
Higher Ground – Best restaurants
Higher Ground

Higher Ground

All about seasonality

Higher Ground in New York Street is a popular bistro and wine bar. This sleek venue serves seasonal dishes with low-intervention wines and local beers. The space has an industrial design, shelves full of bottles, and a buzzy atmosphere. Choose from à la carte or set-sharing menus, with an emphasis on seasonal veggies and whole-animal butchery.

Another Hand

Intimate spot serving local ingredients

There are only 24 seats at Another Hand, creating an intimate dining experience. Fine produce from around the North West is used to craft veg-led sharing plates that are fab for social meals. The menu changes regularly and is served with cocktails and natural wine. The interior is homey and contemporary with a casual vibe.

Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan
Bar San Juan – Best restaurants
Bar San Juan

Bar San Juan

Tapas in Chorlton

A leading local restaurant in Chorlton, Bar San Juan is considered one of the city's best tapas spots. Traditional tapas are served alongside some twists on the classics. Imported drinks, including beers, sherries, and Spanish wines, are also served. The venue is packed with personality, decorated with tiles, framed pictures, and lots of eclectic touches.

Osma

Scandinavian inspirations

Osma serves international dishes inspired by Scandinavian cooking traditions. The menu is seasonal and changes weekly, with a set lunch menu and sharing plates for dinner. Cocktails and wines are also available. This neighbourhood venue in Prestwich is modern and atmospheric, featuring a moodily lit interior.

63 Degrees

Elegant French dining

Family-run 63 Degrees brings Parisian elegance to the Northern Quarter. Classic French dishes are served here, with special seasonal tasting menus available on Tuesdays. French wines and champagne are also available. The venue has an intimate and refined feel and is a popular dining destination for all occasions.

10 Tib Lane

Seasonal dishes to share

Seasonal sharing dishes, all made with quality produce, are on offer at 10 Tib Lane. The diverse menu changes regularly, plus a classic Sunday roast is available every weekend—four different options are served. Pair your food with classic cocktails or natural wine. The venue has a stripped-back and intimate feel with weathered walls.

TNQ

Northern Quarter dining hotspot

Independent restaurant and bar TNQ is one of the best restaurants in the Northern Quarter. This neighbourhood venue serves British dishes made solely with ingredients sourced from around the British Isles. The seasonal menus change regularly to bring diners fresh flavours. This place has a welcoming atmosphere and a smart contemporary style.

Hispi

Award-winning Didsbury bistro

Based in what was once a bank, Hispi is an intimate and award-winning bistro in Didsbury. Seasonal global dishes are on the menu here, with the food being sophisticated but without being pretentious. A choice of menus is available, including options for children and dietary needs. Sunday roasts are also served here. This top Manchester restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere.

Dishoom

Top spot for Indian food

One of the best restaurants in Manchester for Indian cuisine is Dishoom. This trendy spot in Spinningfields serves up an elevated take on street food, including the signature black daal, bacon naans for breakfast, and location-specific specials. The restaurant looks refined, with a smart interior and stained glass windows.

The Black Friar

Historical gastropub

The Black Friar sits on the border between Manchester and Salford and is a renowned gastropub. The setting is packed with history but has contemporary touches as well. As well as being a good spot for drinks, this place is known for its elevated takes on pub grub. The venue is trendy and relaxed, ideal for any occasion.

La Bandera

Top Spanish restaurant

Another nice restaurant in Manchester is La Bandera, which opened in 2014. It's ranked as one of the best Spanish restaurants in the country. The venue is smart and welcoming, with vibrant yellow furniture and loads of natural light flooding in. Tapas and rice dishes are available, and a number of menus are offered, including bottomless brunch and pre-theatre.

Kala Bistro

Bistro with a buzz

Elegant but easygoing meals are served in a buzzy environment at Kala Bistro. Menus are seasonal and include choices for children, larger groups, and various dietary requirements. Sophisticated yet honest dishes are served, such as goat's curd on charred sourdough and confit duck leg. The venue is spacious, modern, and stylish, a great option whenever you want a nice meal in Manchester.

James Martin Manchester

Creative seasonal cooking

James Martin Manchester is a venture from the TV chef, located in the historic Great Northern Warehouse. If you're looking for a good British restaurant in Manchester, this one fits the bill. Seasonal and creative dishes made with quality produce are served here, including a traditional Sunday lunch. The refined venue combines vintage fabrics, original art, and industrial design.

Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia
Australasia – Best restaurants
Australasia

Australasia

Quiet luxury in Spinningfields

Opened in 2011, Australasia is a top restaurant in Spinningfields. This stylish spot gives off a quiet luxury vibe, with interiors featuring natural colours and materials. An eclectic range of DJs enhance the atmosphere. There's a modern Australian menu with Japanese and Indonesian influences, with dishes like sushi, tempura, and salads. Wines from Australia and New Zealand are also available.

The Edinburgh Castle

Cosy pub dining

Ancoats gastropub The Edinburgh Castle has been in operation since 1811 and is today a top place to eat in Manchester. Downstairs, it's a traditional pub environment full of dark wood, while upstairs, there's a smart dining room. A concise food menu of sophisticated and satisfying British dishes is served, and the drinks include a broad selection of whiskeys.

Maray

Vibrant Middle Eastern recipes

At Maray, you get vibrant food and a warm and hospitable atmosphere. The dishes are inspired by Middle Eastern flavours, with lots of colourful small plates for sharing. The menus change regularly but include options like chicken wings and falafel, plus there's a dedicated vegan menu. The bright and contemporary venue is full of light and has space for private dining.

Asha's

Indian food to share

Founded by Bollywood legend Asha Bhosle, Asha's is an Indian restaurant housed in a Grade II-listed former shipping warehouse. In surroundings that showcase bold and lavish design, you can try dishes intended for sharing that have modern and traditional influences. Breakfast is served on weekends, and you can also try cocktails and mocktails here.

Grand Pacific

Opulent and original

Inspired by the age of exploration, Grand Pacific is a grand and modern venue that's full of atmosphere. Expect an original menu of English classics with exotic twists, including an indulgent afternoon tea. Lunch, dinner, and bar snacks are also available, including exciting fusion options like Asian-spiced duck cottage pie.

Elnecot

Imaginative dishes in Ancoats

Elnecot in Ancoats serves modern British dishes with creative twists. Favourite dishes are reimagined and prepared with local ingredients, served in a slick and contemporary setting with indoor and outdoor tables. Food is served all day, and there are a variety of menus available, including a weekend brunch and a traditional Sunday roast.

Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni
Don Giovanni – Best restaurants
Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni

Long-standing Italian favourite

Try Don Giovanni for great Italian food in Manchester. It's the oldest independent Italian restaurant in the city and is also considered one of the most romantic. Carefully chosen ingredients are used to craft fresh and seasonal dishes, including steaks and crowd-pleasing pizza, pasta, and risotto. The setting is upscale and modern, with large windows, crisp tablecloths, and leather furniture.

The Ivy

Two destinations in one

The Ivy Spinningfields is the Manchester outpost of The Ivy Collection, combining two inspiring venues into one. Enjoy modern British cooking all day in the stylish brasserie or visit the late-night Asian-inspired bar for cocktails and plates to share. There are menus for every need here, including afternoon tea, brunch, and a frequently changing set menu.

Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala
Tast Catala – Best restaurants
Tast Catala

Tast Catala

Catalan cooking

Top restaurant Tast Catala brings the flavours of Barcelona to Mancunians. The venue includes a restaurant, bar, terrace, and private dining space. It's a contemporary setting with plants, plenty of light, and a casual atmosphere. Outdoor seating is available, too. Visit to try tapas, grilled meat, and rice dishes, with charcoal cooking being the speciality.

The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge
The Refuge – Best restaurants
The Refuge

The Refuge

Flavours from around the world

At The Refuge, you'll find a refined and relaxed venue encompassing several spaces ideal for drinks or dining. The surroundings are elegant and sophisticated, with Art Deco details. The small plates are great if you want something light, plus a diverse array of global flavours are on offer. Imaginative original cocktails are also available.

El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas
El Gato Negro Tapas – Best restaurants
El Gato Negro Tapas

El Gato Negro Tapas

Tapas in a townhouse

One of the most popular tapas restaurants in Manchester is El Gato Negro Tapas. This award-winning eatery is set across three floors in an attractive townhouse, featuring several distinct areas, a roof terrace, and large windows for great city views. Seasonal tapas dishes made with local ingredients are available here, showcasing modern and traditional flavours and techniques. 

The best budget-friendly restaurants in Manchester

Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton – Best restaurants
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
pizzeriadoublezero.com/chorlton
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester
pizzeriadoublezero.com/manchester
Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester

Some of the best pizza out there

Manchester's pizza fans can't stay away from Double Zero – this restaurant was ranked the best pizzeria in the UK in 2023. It's a relaxed and contemporary spot with indoor and outdoor tables. Diners are welcome to bring their own alcohol to go with the food menu of authentic pizzas with a diverse variety of toppings.

  • 368 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy 55 Spring Gardens, Manchester City Centre
    Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
    368 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy
    Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester
    55 Spring Gardens, Manchester City Centre
  • Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
    pizzeriadoublezero.com/chorlton
    Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester
    pizzeriadoublezero.com/manchester
    Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton
    016-194 389 80
    Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester
    016-194 389 80
  • Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Chorlton Double Zero Neapolitan Pizza Manchester

Yuzu Japanese Tapas

Tranquil Japanese restaurant

Yuzu Japanese Tapas is a top Japanese restaurant located in Chinatown. This venue serves authentic dishes made from scratch, offering up a simple menu of small and large plates like tempura, agedashi tofu, yaki udon, and noodle soup. The dining space is calm and minimalist with wood panelling and wooden furniture.

Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street
rudyspizza.co.uk
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale
rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/sale
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street
rudyspizza.co.uk/peterstreet
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats
rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/ancoats
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton
rudyspizza.co.uk/chorlton
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury
rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/didsbury
Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury

Homegrown pizza hero

Beginning in Ancoats before expanding around Manchester and beyond, Rudy's Pizza Napoletana is one of the best budget-friendly restaurants in Manchester. Neapolitan pizza is the speciality, served with a range of authentic toppings. Cocktails and wine are available to enhance the experience. The restaurants are laid-back and trendy.

  • Bank House, 30 Portland St, Manchester City Centre 2 Northenden Rd, Sale Petersfield House, Peter Street, Manchester City Centre 9 Cotton St, Ancoats, Ancoats 577 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Chorlton-cum-Hardy 653 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Didsbury
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street
    Bank House, 30 Portland St, Manchester City Centre
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale
    2 Northenden Rd, Sale
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street
    Petersfield House, Peter Street, Manchester City Centre
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats
    9 Cotton St, Ancoats, Ancoats
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton
    577 Barlow Moor Rd, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Chorlton-cum-Hardy
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury
    653 Wilmslow Rd, Didsbury, Didsbury
  • Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street
    rudyspizza.co.uk
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale
    rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/sale
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street
    rudyspizza.co.uk/peterstreet
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats
    rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/ancoats
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton
    rudyspizza.co.uk/chorlton
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury
    rudyspizza.co.uk/pizzerias/didsbury
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street
    016-153 229 22
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale
    016-196 901 96
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street
    016-166 080 40
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats
    016-182 082 92
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton
    016-146 466 86
    Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury
    016-182 036 88
  • Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Portland Street Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Sale Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Peter Street Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Ancoats Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Chorlton Rudy's Pizza Napoletana Didsbury
Bundobust Brewery Bundobust Piccadilly
Bundobust Brewery
bundobust.com/locations/bundobust-brewery
Bundobust Piccadilly
bundobust.com/locations/manchester
Bundobust Brewery Bundobust Piccadilly

Beers and bites

Bundobust brews its own beers and serves some of the best Indian street food in Manchester. The venue is lively, with communal tables and industrial touches. Of course there's plenty of beer, but the food is also in-demand, from light bites like okra fries to filling options such as paneer tikka. Grab a few dishes to immerse yourself in the flavours.

  • 61-69 Oxford Street, Manchester City Centre 61 Piccadilly, Manchester City Centre/Northern Quarter
    Bundobust Brewery
    61-69 Oxford Street, Manchester City Centre
    Bundobust Piccadilly
    61 Piccadilly, Manchester City Centre/Northern Quarter
  • Bundobust Brewery
    bundobust.com/locations/bundobust-brewery
    Bundobust Piccadilly
    bundobust.com/locations/manchester
    Bundobust Brewery
    016-151 186 01
    Bundobust Piccadilly
    016-135 967 57
  • Bundobust Brewery Bundobust Piccadilly

This & That

Favourite curry house since 1984

Tucked away in the Northern Quarter is This & That, an in-demand family-run curry house that's been open since 1984. Considered one of the top restaurants in Manchester for Indian cuisine, everything on the concise menu is homemade using authentic spices. A daily-changing choice of curries, including veggie dishes, are served here in a no-frills setting.

Lily's

Well-loved vegetarian restaurant

Based in Ashton, Lily's Indian Vegetarian Cuisine is an award-winning spot that serves some of the best vegetarian food in Manchester. This family-run eatery serves a 100% veggie menu that includes street food, curries, and sweets and desserts. The venue is spacious with an informal atmosphere and tempting desserts displayed at the counter. 

Habesha

Manchester's original Ethiopian restaurant

Habesha Restaurant looks unassuming from outside but is serving some of the best Ethiopian food in Manchester – in fact, it was the city's first Ethiopian restaurant when it opened in 2006. The red walls are vibrant and enhanced with traditional decor. A concise choice of vegetarian and meat dishes are available, served traditionally on injera bread.

I Am Pho

Top restaurant in Chinatown

Chinatown restaurant I Am Pho is a straightforward and affordable place for Vietnamese meals. The whitewashed dining space is simple and enhanced with floral decor. Traditional pho is on the menu but other options include banh mi, rice dishes, salads, and spring rolls. Try a Vietnamese beer as the ideal accompaniment to the food here.

Mughli

Eat in the Curry Mile

Mughli Charcoal Pit is a top Manchester restaurant in the Curry Mile – even Ed Sheeran has enjoyed a meal here. This popular spot specialises in Indian street food, serving food tapas-style. Expect the likes of lamb chops, daal, and creative plates like Punjabi poutine and a Bombay toasted sandwich. The spacious setting is decorated with Indian posters and natural tones.

Mowgli Street Food

Leading street food restaurant

Located at the Corn Exchange, Mowgli Street Food is a top restaurant in Manchester for Indian cuisine. The menu includes street eats, food roulette tiffin boxes, and curries, plus kids' meals and set menus. Original cocktails and mocktails are also on offer. The interiors are stylish, decorated with wood, trees and leaves, and picturesque rope swing seats. 

New Wave Ramen Tib Lane New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor
New Wave Ramen Tib Lane
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New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor
owl-crocodile-wla8.squarespace.com
New Wave Ramen Tib Lane New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor

Big name in noodles

Touted as some of the best ramen in Manchester, New Wave Ramen started out at Mackie Mayor but has since expanded. Everything, including the noodles, is made in-house with local and sustainable ingredients. Small plates, grilled dishes, and ramen bowls are served here. These eateries are laid-back, modern, and bustling.

  • 16 Tib Ln, Manchester City Centre 1 Eagle Street, Manchester City Centre/Northern Quarter
    New Wave Ramen Tib Lane
    16 Tib Ln, Manchester City Centre
    New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor
    1 Eagle Street, Manchester City Centre/Northern Quarter
  • New Wave Ramen Tib Lane
    owl-crocodile-wla8.squarespace.com
    New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor
    owl-crocodile-wla8.squarespace.com
    New Wave Ramen Tib Lane
    016-171 107 10
    New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor
    016-171 107 10
  • New Wave Ramen Tib Lane New Wave Ramen Mackie Mayor

The best high-end restaurants in Manchester

Mana

Michelin-starred dining in Manchester

Don't miss Mana if you're looking for one of the top restaurants in Manchester—it's the only one in the city to hold a Michelin star. Every table gets a view of the kitchen, where you can watch the chefs craft contemporary British menus that combine distinctive flavours and textures into unique dishes. The menus are accompanied by wine and cocktails.

Adam Reid at The French

Award-winning British meals

Homegrown chef Adam Reid's eponymous restaurant, Adam Reid at The French, has won numerous awards and accolades, making it one of Manchester's best dining destinations. This luxurious spot is housed in a Grade II-listed building and has a lavish interior. Explore modern British cooking here through sophisticated and seasonal tasting menus.

Where The Light Gets In

Celebrating British produce

Diners in Stockport visit Where The Light Gets In for sophisticated meals. Produce is central to the menus here—the restaurant works with farmers and fishermen around the country to develop creative, seasonal menus that are always evolving. Housed in a former coffee warehouse, the open-plan restaurant is contemporary and bright.

Lucky Cat

Asian-influenced small plates

A restaurant from Gordon Ramsay, Lucky Cat is an upscale Asian-inspired venue. In grand surroundings with multiple private dining spaces available, diners can try small plates, sushi, sashimi, and robata-grilled dishes. An intimate omakase experience is also available, plus there are special menus for groups. Asian-inspired original cocktails are also available here.

Tattu

Lavish Chinese restaurant

Chinese cuisine is served in a lavish environment at Tattu. Botanicals, atmospheric lighting, and sophisticated design add to the opulent style. An à la carte menu is available, but you can also choose from tasting menus or a set lunch option. Dishes are seasonal, and creative signature cocktails are also available.

Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester
Fenix Manchester – Best restaurants
Fenix Manchester

Fenix

Experiential Greek dining

Upscale Greek restaurant Fenix comes from the team behind Tattu. It opened in 2023 to much acclaim. Elevated versions of Greek and Mediterranean recipes with some inventive Asian influences are on the menu, but it's not only the food that makes this venue stand out. The elaborate and carefully-designed interiors add to the entire experience.

Maya

Unique multi-faceted restaurant

Maya opened by the canal in the Gay Village early in 2024 and quickly commanded attention. This venue is set over three floors, encompassing unique areas that each have their own distinct vibe. This elegant bistro serves modern European dishes, with a different menu available in each area. This place provides a number of idyllic experiences under one roof.

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Editors

At Thatsup, we have extensive experience of guiding our readers to a city’s hidden gems. Since 2008, our editors have been writing insightful guides covering restaurants, bars, cafes, hotels, and hairdressers, among other things. Our guides consist of carefully selected tips based on our local knowledge and are regularly updated with the help of our focus group, where we collectively discuss selections and content. We are constantly working to inspire and provide you with the best possible experience, no matter where you are or what you are looking for.