The 55 best restaurants in and around Manchester right now

Manchester: The city is buzzing with food options that cater to every taste. From fancy Michelin-starred spots to cozy curry cafes, there’s something for everyone. Once, people joked about Manchester’s dining scene, but now it’s a culinary hotspot.

With a mix of cultures, the food scene here is super diverse. You can find everything from British classics to Korean BBQ and Japanese dishes. It’s a real treat for food lovers!

So, here’s a list of the best restaurants in and around Manchester right now. If we missed your favorite, drop a comment and let us know!

First up is Erst in Ancoats. This Scandinavian-style wine bar is perfect for impressing friends. They serve natural wines and stylish small plates. The vibe is relaxed, with a cool open kitchen. You can’t go wrong with their pork ragu or grilled flatbread.

Next, check out Climat, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views. Their menu features delicious dishes like lamb keema vol-au-vent and perfectly cooked hake. It’s a great spot for a special night out.

Then there’s The Sparrows, known for its dumplings and Central European dishes. You’ll want to try their pierogi and spätzle, paired with organic wines. It’s a hidden gem in the Green Quarter.

Skof is another must-visit. This place has been fully booked since it opened, and for good reason! The tasting menus are a real treat, featuring dishes like roasted duck and Orkney scallops.

Don’t miss Kala, a bistro that quietly excels in quality. The atmosphere is stylish, and the food is top-notch. If you haven’t been, it’s time to go!

Mana is a game-changer in fine dining. It was the first restaurant in Manchester to earn a Michelin star in over 40 years. The innovative menu keeps diners on their toes with dishes like smoked eel and matcha orb.

For something casual, Pho Cue in Chinatown serves up fresh Vietnamese dishes. Their pho and lobster specials are a hit, and the atmosphere is welcoming.

Another Hand is a New York-style eatery that focuses on seasonal small plates. They source ingredients from local suppliers, making every dish a delightful surprise.

Stretford Canteen is a cozy spot that mixes classic French with modern British vibes. The food is simple yet delicious, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Onda started as a pop-up and quickly became a favorite for its pasta dishes. Their tiramisu is a must-try, and the atmosphere is lively.

Higher Ground is another award-winning spot, focusing on seasonal ingredients. The dishes are crafted with care, and the service is top-notch.

Adam Reid at The French is a Manchester institution. The modern British dishes are served in a stunning setting, making it perfect for special occasions.

El Gato Negro is a tapas restaurant that’s perfect for any occasion. The food is delicious, and the atmosphere is vibrant.

The Jane Eyre has made a name for itself with its Sunday roasts and small plates. The outdoor terrace is a great spot to enjoy a meal in the summer.

The Mekong Cat in Stockport offers authentic Cambodian cuisine. Their beef stew is comforting and delicious.

Ornella’s Kitchen serves some of the best pasta dishes in Greater Manchester. The lobster ravioli is a standout, and the desserts are heavenly.

The Black Friar has transformed into a contemporary restaurant and pub. The menu features elevated pub classics, and the atmosphere is cozy.

Flawd is a natural wine bar with a tiny kitchen that produces amazing small plates. The focus on seasonal produce makes every dish special.

10 Tib Lane is a Parisian-style restaurant that impresses with its cocktails and seasonal food. It’s a great spot for a date night.

Happy Seasons is a Chinatown favorite known for its roast meats. The queues are long, but the food is worth the wait.

Hawksmoor is the go-to for steak lovers. The upscale atmosphere and perfectly cooked steaks make it a must-visit.

Blacklock is a chophouse that focuses on using every part of the animal. The sharing platter is a highlight, perfect for groups.

Bundobust is a Gujarati street food kitchen that’s become a local favorite. The dishes are served in cute tubs, and the atmosphere is lively.

Yuzu serves traditional Japanese small plates made from fresh ingredients. The food is carefully crafted and absolutely delicious.

This & That is a beloved curry cafe known for its ‘rice and three’ meals. It’s a great spot for a quick and satisfying lunch.

Bar San Juan is a tiny tapas spot that’s always buzzing. The authentic dishes and lively atmosphere make it a favorite among locals.

Wow Banh Mi serves some of the best Vietnamese sandwiches in the city. The warm and welcoming atmosphere adds to the experience.

OSMA is a Michelin-rated restaurant in Prestwich. The dishes celebrate local ingredients and are beautifully presented.

Maray is a Liverpool-born restaurant that’s now in Manchester. The menu features Middle Eastern flavors and vibrant cocktails.

The Oystercatcher is a cozy spot for seafood lovers. The menu features fresh, seasonal dishes that are sure to impress.

Dishoom offers a taste of old Iranian cafes in Bombay. The atmosphere is inviting, and the food is simply delicious.

Mi & Pho is a neighborhood favorite for authentic Vietnamese cuisine. The flavors are vibrant, and the dishes are comforting.

Double Zero is known for its handmade Neapolitan pizzas. The wood-fired oven creates a delicious crust that keeps people coming back.

63 Degrees is a modern French brasserie that offers a taste of Paris. The dishes are innovative and beautifully presented.

The Walled Gardens is a unique vegetarian restaurant run by a single chef. The tasting menu is highly sought after, so book in advance!

Tattu is a contemporary Chinese restaurant with stunning decor. The sharing menus allow you to sample a variety of dishes.

Volta is a pioneer of small plates with influences from Northern Spain and the Middle East. The cocktails are also worth trying.

Lily’s Indian Vegetarian Cuisine serves delicious Gujarati food. The curries are generous and full of flavor.

Tast is a Catalan restaurant that’s perfect for special occasions. The menu is designed by a Michelin-starred chef, ensuring a memorable meal.

Where The Light Gets In is a unique dining experience with no menu. The chef creates stunning dishes right in front of you.

Hong Thai offers homemade delights inspired by Hong Kong and Thailand. The Pad Thai and curries are popular choices.

Seoul Kimchi is a family-run gem known for its Korean classics. The barbecue dishes are particularly popular.

Rudy’s is famous for its Neapolitan pizzas. The quality keeps customers coming back for more.

Peace Garden serves exceptional Chinese regional dishes. The standards are high, making it a must-visit.

Cafe Marhaba is known for its legendary curries. The daily-changing menu keeps things exciting.

Hispi is a neighborhood restaurant that consistently impresses. The service and cooking are top-notch.

Porta does tapas right, with a focus on quality ingredients. The atmosphere is warm and inviting.

Madre is a taqueria and mezcaleria that offers authentic Mexican flavors. The tacos and drinks are a hit.

Caravan is a New Zealand-inspired brunch spot that’s quickly gaining popularity. The dishes are creative and delicious.

The Perfect Match is a hidden gem with a fantastic bistro menu. The food and wine pairings are exceptional.

Yadgar Cafe is a homestyle cafe known for its fresh curries. The flavors are complex and satisfying.

Ban Di Bul combines dining out with cooking your own meal. It’s a fun experience with delicious food.

Choupan serves homemade flatbreads and Afghan-Iranian dishes. The dumplings and stews are a must-try.

Street Urchin is a seafood restaurant with a daily-changing menu. The dishes are fresh and flavorful.

Finally, House of Habesha offers delicious Ethiopian and Eritrean food. The injera and spiced dishes are a treat.