16 Best Restaurants in Manchester for Exceptional Dining

Manchester offers a wide range of dining options. From casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, the city has something to suit every taste and budget.

We’ve put together a list of the 16 best restaurants in Manchester to help you find great places to eat across the city. Whether you’re looking for local favourites or Michelin-starred spots, this guide will help you choose where to dine next.

1) Tattu Manchester

We stepped into Tattu Manchester and immediately noticed the stylish, dark wood interior with carved screens. The atmosphere feels sophisticated, perfect for a dinner that’s both modern and relaxed.

The food is modern Chinese with a creative twist. The dishes are vibrant and full of flavour, inspired by traditional Chinese cuisine but with a fresh, contemporary edge.

The cocktails are worth trying and match the restaurant’s mood. Tattu’s location in the bustling Spinningfields area makes it easy to reach.

It’s a great spot for special occasions or an elegant night out. The space also works well for private events.

The design theme draws on body art and cultural symbolism, adding an interesting layer to the experience. It feels unique without being over the top, creating a journey from East to West through both the decor and the menu.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (3449 reviews)
📍Location: 3 Hardman Square, Gartside St, Manchester M3 3EB, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 819 2060
🌐Website: https://tattu.co.uk/locations/manchester

2) Dishoom Manchester

Dishoom Manchester mixes traditional Indian flavours with modern touches. The restaurant has a relaxed but smart atmosphere, with elegant stained glass windows that add unique charm.

The setting is perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. The menu offers classic curries and inventive plates inspired by Bombay’s old Irani cafés.

We appreciated the vegetarian options and halal choices, making it easy for different tastes and diets. The dishes are well-seasoned without being overwhelming.

The service was friendly and efficient. The bar menu includes interesting cocktails and chai blends that complement the food nicely.

You can enjoy a full meal here or grab a quick takeaway if you prefer.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (9408 reviews)
📍Location: 32 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BT, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 537 3737
🌐Website: https://www.dishoom.com/manchester

3) Hawksmoor Manchester

Hawksmoor Manchester sits in a grand Victorian courthouse on Deansgate. The place feels both historic and inviting, with reclaimed wood panels and parquet flooring adding character.

The menu focuses on prime cuts of matured beef, fresh seafood, and British dishes. We tried the steak, which was cooked just right and served with proper portions.

The cocktail selection is award-winning, and the bar snacks are great for a lighter bite. For groups, Hawksmoor offers private dining rooms and a semi-private area.

The bar area provides a relaxed spot for drinks. It’s also easy to get to, with two nearby train stations just a short walk away.

They run a lunch special that offers great value for steak and chips. On Mondays, you can bring your own bottle for a small corkage fee, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (4230 reviews)
📍Location: 184, 186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB
📞Contact: +44 161 836 6980
🌐Website: https://thehawksmoor.com/locations/manchester/

4) The Refuge

The Refuge is a spacious and stylish spot perfect for any occasion. Its elegant dining room features ceramic pillars and a high atrium ceiling, giving the place an airy, open feel.

The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great choice whether you’re meeting friends or heading out for a night on the town. The menu is diverse and international, with small plates and hearty Sunday roasts that stand out.

We enjoyed the all-day Sunday roasts, perfect for sharing. The variety makes it easy to find something for everyone.

The Refuge has different areas to suit your mood. The Public Bar is ideal for a casual drink, while the Winter Garden and Dining Room offer a more formal dining experience.

The opening hours fit well with pre-theatre plans or late-night gatherings. We found this very convenient.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (3506 reviews)
📍Location: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 233 5151
🌐Website: http://www.refugemcr.co.uk

5) Another hand

Another hand is a small, stylish restaurant tucked away in the Great Northern building on Deansgate. The space feels intimate, with only 24 covers, which creates a calm and focused dining experience.

We enjoyed watching the open kitchen, where the team carefully prepare each sharing plate. The menu highlights fresh, veggie-led dishes using ingredients sourced from around the North West.

The flavours were well balanced, and the plates are designed to share. The responsible and local approach to sourcing is clear in every dish.

The restaurant feels like a hidden gem, reached via colourful stairs or through the Great Northern entrance. It’s great for those who want something a bit different, with a relaxed atmosphere and a smart, modern interior.

They welcome kids aged six and older. The kitchen closes in the afternoon between 2 and 5 pm, so it’s best to plan visits around those hours.

The restrooms are not inside the restaurant but just a short walk away in the building.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (387 reviews)
📍Location: Unit F, 253 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4EN, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 834 2988
🌐Website: http://anotherhandmcr.com

6) Namii Kitchen & Cocktails

Namii Kitchen & Cocktails is a bright and welcoming spot on New York Street. The space is decorated with flowers and colourful murals, which adds a fresh and relaxed vibe.

It’s a great place to enjoy a mix of Vietnamese dishes alongside creative cocktails. The menu offers a variety of small plates, making it easy to share and try different flavours.

We appreciated the Pan-Asian influences, and the food felt thoughtfully prepared, with good vegan options too. The atmosphere suits both brunch and evening meals, making it versatile.

The cocktail bar stands out with inventive and well-crafted drinks. They pair nicely with the food, and it’s clear the team pays attention to detail.

Namii Kitchen also caters for larger groups, which is ideal for corporate events or big nights out.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (1277 reviews)
📍Location: New York St, Manchester M1 4HN, UK
📞Contact: +44 161 237 1979
🌐Website: http://namii.co.uk

7) Turtle Bay Manchester Oxford Rd

We enjoyed the lively atmosphere at Turtle Bay, where the smell of their jerk pit fills the air. The restaurant’s modern look with big windows lets in plenty of light, making it a bright and welcoming space.

The menu offers a strong taste of Caribbean flavours. The dishes are rich but well balanced, and the cocktails are a perfect match.

Turtle Bay is easy to find, just a short walk from Oxford Road station and close to St Peter’s Square. The staff were friendly, and walk-ins are welcome, which is handy if you’re out and about.

They also have fun events like their Dominoes Club on Sundays. The private space upstairs makes it a good choice for small group gatherings or parties.

⭐Rating: 4.8 (19,685 reviews)
📍Location: 33-35 Oxford St, Manchester M1 4WB, UK
📞Contact: +44 161 236 4101
🌐Website: https://turtlebay.co.uk/restaurants/manchester-oxford-st

8) 10 Tib Lane

We enjoyed a relaxed meal at 10 Tib Lane. This spot combines a restaurant and cocktail bar vibe.

The atmosphere feels modern and welcoming. It’s great for both casual dinners and nights out with drinks.

The menu runs from noon until 10pm, Tuesday to Saturday. This gives plenty of time to visit.

Sunday roasts are served until early evening. Happy hour offers £1 oysters and £8 cocktails between 4pm and 6pm.

Booking is recommended, but there is space for walk-ins if you want to pop in last minute. The dress code is simple—no football shirts or fancy dress—so the vibe stays comfortable but polished.

Children under 18 cannot enter after 9pm, and there are no highchairs. The bathrooms are upstairs, so keep this in mind if you have mobility concerns.

The staff were helpful and open about allergens. They take food safety seriously.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (332 reviews)
📍Location: 10 Tib Ln, Manchester
📞Contact: +44 161 833 1034
🌐Website: https://www.10tiblane.com

9) El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester

El Gato Negro Tapas sits in a stylish, three-storey old townhouse. The blend of modern design and cosy atmosphere makes it easy to enjoy long evenings sampling different dishes.

This spot works well for groups or quieter meals. The menu offers small plates with traditional Spanish flavours and a modern twist.

Many ingredients are local, adding freshness to each dish. Sharing a few plates let us try a bit of everything.

The drink selection features classic Spanish wines and cocktails. Staff were attentive without being intrusive, making the experience comfortable.

The nearby Black Cat Club offers darts, shuffleboard, and live sports for a more casual vibe. It’s a fun option if you want to continue your evening.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (3841 reviews)
📍Location: 52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 694 8585
🌐Website: https://www.elgatonegrotapas.com

10) TNQ – The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar

We visited TNQ, a modern British restaurant in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. The dining room feels relaxed yet stylish, with exposed wooden floors and large windows.

It’s a good spot for a quiet lunch or a casual evening out. The food focuses on local, seasonal ingredients from around the British Isles.

The menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new. Chef Anthony Fielden keeps dishes simple and full of flavour.

You can taste the freshness in every bite. During the week, they offer deals like two courses for £21 at lunch.

On Sundays, the roast options are popular. Some evenings include three courses with unlimited wine.

This mix of quality and fair prices makes TNQ worth a visit. The atmosphere is calm but lively, fitting for both business meals and relaxed dinners.

We liked how inviting the place felt without being too formal.

⭐Rating: 4.5 (1250 reviews)
📍Location: 108 High St, Manchester M4 1HQ
📞Contact: +44 161 832 7115
🌐Website: https://www.tnq.co.uk/#tnq-northern-quarter-restaurant-home

11) Miller & Carter Manchester

We recently visited Miller & Carter in Manchester. The restaurant stands out for its focus on quality steaks.

It sits in an impressive old bank building near King Street. The classic setting feels welcoming.

The staff helped us choose cuts that suited our tastes. Their beef comes from trusted farms and ages for 30 days to develop rich flavours.

The steaks arrived juicy and cooked just right. The chefs train at their own ‘Steak School’, and their attention to detail shows in every dish.

The restaurant also offers a range of sides and drinks. It’s a great place for steak lovers to enjoy a relaxed, high-quality meal in the city centre.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (6812 reviews)
📍Location: 53 King St, Manchester M2 4LQ
📞Contact: +44 161 839 2846
🌐 Website: https://www.millerandcarter.co.uk/restaurants/north-west/millerandcartermanchester

12) Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill Manchester

We visited Fazenda Rodizio Bar & Grill and enjoyed a modern yet authentic experience. The restaurant serves endless cuts of meat straight to your table in true Brazilian style.

This rodizio service made us feel like part of a traditional Brazilian feast. The Market Table offered a wide range of fresh salads, vegetables, and cured meats.

These sides added variety and balanced flavours throughout the meal. The setting in Spinningfields felt stylish but relaxed.

The drink options included an extensive wine list and creative cocktails. Fazenda suits both casual visits and special occasions.

The full Churrasco Experience is a great way to try all the signature dishes. The staff are attentive and keep the service smooth.

⭐Rating: 4.7 (5568 reviews)
📍Location: The Avenue, Manchester M3 3AP, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 207 1183
🌐Website: https://fazenda.co.uk/manchester

13) Higher Ground

Higher Ground is a welcoming spot on New York Street. They serve modern British food with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

The sharing menus offer a good balance and flavour. Sitting at the kitchen bar lets you watch the chefs at work.

Lunch is relaxed with a set menu at £40 per person. Dinner brings more variety, with à la carte and sharing options around £60 per person.

The open, airy space makes it comfortable for small groups or couples. The team is attentive and ready to help with dietary needs.

They offer vegan, vegetarian, gluten free, and pescatarian menus. Only card payments are accepted, and dogs are not allowed except for guide dogs.

They close for a summer break from late August to early September. Booking ahead for lunch or dinner is a good idea, especially on weekends.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (357 reviews)
📍Location: Faulkner House, New York St, Manchester M1 4DY
📞Contact: +44 161 470 9821
🌐Website: http://highergroundmcr.co.uk

14) Bundobust Manchester Piccadilly

Bundobust Manchester Piccadilly has a casual and lively atmosphere. Here, modern Indian street food meets craft beer.

The menu is made for sharing, so it’s great for friends. The food is full of flavour but not overpowering.

We found the spice levels balanced and the dishes creative. The menu offers unique twists on street food classics.

The craft beer selection stands out, with Bundobust Brewery’s beers complementing the food. Staff were friendly and helped us choose drinks that matched the dishes.

The location is convenient, just off Piccadilly. It’s a great spot for casual dinners and groups looking for quality food and drink in a relaxed setting.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (3788 reviews)
📍Location: 61 Piccadilly, Manchester M1 2AG, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 359 6757
🌐Website: http://www.bundobust.com

15) Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay – Manchester

We found Lucky Cat by Gordon Ramsay impressive for both its setting and menu.

The restaurant sits in an old bank building, giving it a unique and stylish atmosphere.

The mix of modern design and historic features creates a special place for a memorable meal.

The food features Asian-inspired dishes that are full of flavour but not overwhelming.

The menu suits a range of tastes, and we enjoyed the variety of small plates for sharing.

The staff provided attentive service without being intrusive, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Lucky Cat also offers private dining rooms, including one called the Vault.

These spaces are ideal for group meals or events if you want something more exclusive.

They serve late-night cocktails, making it a good spot for evening plans after dinner.

⭐Rating: 4.6 (748 reviews)
📍Location: 100 King St, Manchester M2 4WU, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 424 9150
🌐Website: https://www.gordonramsayrestaurants.com/lucky-cat-manchester

16) Albert’s Shed Restaurant Manchester

We found Albert’s Shed to be a modern and inviting spot in Manchester.

The restaurant stands on the site of an old tool shed, giving it a unique history.

It has a large glass terrace facing south, creating a bright and open dining space.

The menu includes Modern European dishes with options for vegans, vegetarians, and those needing gluten-free choices.

We especially liked the mix of starters, such as wild mushroom arancini and duck spring rolls.

The mains offer variety, with dishes like chicken Wellington and sea bass standing out.

The steak selection features sirloin, rib-eye, and fillet cuts cooked to order.

You can also share a large steak board, perfect for groups.

The pizzas are worth trying, with creative toppings like goats’ cheese parmigiana and hot honey chicken.

We appreciated the careful balance of flavours and fresh ingredients throughout the menu.

Whether for breakfast, lunch, or a special dinner, it suits various tastes and occasions.

⭐Rating: 4.4 (1928 reviews)
📍Location: 18-20 Castle St, Manchester M3 4LZ, United Kingdom
📞Contact: +44 161 839 9818
🌐Website: http://alberts-restaurants.com/shed

Dining Etiquette and Local Culinary Culture

Understanding local customs can enhance your dining experience in Manchester.

Knowing what to wear, when to eat, and which ingredients are common helps you engage with the city’s food culture.

Manchester Restaurant Dress Codes

Manchester’s restaurants vary in dress codes depending on the style and location.

Casual dining spots, especially in the Northern Quarter, welcome relaxed clothing like jeans and trainers.

For fine dining or posh restaurants in the city centre, smart casual or business casual attire is usually expected.

Avoid sportswear or overly casual items in upscale places.

Some Michelin-starred restaurants may require jackets for men and smart dresses or trousers for women.

When in doubt, check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to confirm the dress code.

Typical Dining Hours in Manchester

In Manchester, restaurants serve lunch between 12 pm and 2:30 pm.

Dinner hours usually start from 6 pm and go until 9:30 or 10 pm.

Some places in busy areas like Deansgate or Spinningfields may stay open later, especially on weekends.

Casual cafes and smaller eateries often open earlier for breakfast and close by early evening.

Many restaurants close between lunch and dinner service, so planning ahead helps avoid long waits or closed kitchens.

Common Regional Ingredients

Manchester’s cuisine features hearty, locally sourced ingredients.

Root vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and parsnips are common and reflect the region’s farming history.

Lamb and beef appear in traditional dishes like stews and pies.

Dairy products, including cheeses and butter from nearby farms, are also important.

The city’s diverse population brings a variety of spices and fresh herbs, blending traditional British cooking with international flavours.

How to Make the Most of Your Manchester Dining Experience

To enjoy dining in Manchester fully, plan ahead and make thoughtful choices about drinks.

Knowing when to book and what beverages pair well with local dishes will help you get the best from each restaurant visit.

Making Advance Reservations

Manchester’s popular restaurants fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during events.

Booking ahead ensures you get a table at your preferred time and avoid long waits.

Many top venues offer online booking through their websites or apps.

Reserve at least a week in advance for highly rated spots or Michelin-starred places.

For casual dining, a few days ahead is usually enough.

If you want to dine in trendy areas like the Northern Quarter or city centre, early reservations prevent disappointment.

Some restaurants provide special menus or tasting experiences that require booking in advance.

Pairing Local Beverages with Your Meal

Manchester has a thriving craft beer scene, local ales, and quality ciders.

Choosing the right drink can bring out the flavours of your food.

Order beers from local brewers such as Cloudwater or Seven Brothers when eating hearty pies or spicy curries.

For seafood or lighter dishes, a crisp English sparkling wine or cider works well.

Many Manchester restaurants stock UK-grown wines alongside international labels.

The staff can recommend pairings that match the style of food, making the experience more enjoyable.

Ask servers about the best drinks from local producers to taste authentic Manchester flavours with every meal.

Looking to make the most of Manchester’s vibrant food scene? Explore our guide to the best things to do in Manchester and discover top attractions to enjoy alongside your dining experience.

Conclusion

Manchester offers a wide range of dining experiences that suit many tastes and budgets. From traditional favourites to innovative dishes, the city’s restaurant scene continues to grow and impress visitors and locals alike. We encourage you to explore these options and find the places that fit your style.

If you are new to Manchester or planning to move here, discovering great restaurants will help you get to know the city better. We believe good food is part of enjoying life and feeling connected to your community.

For those interested in Manchester property, we invite you to visit jfpropertypartners.com. Our website offers valuable information on homes and investment opportunities in the area, making it easier for you to settle into this vibrant city with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

We have gathered answers to common questions about the food scene in Manchester.

This includes favourite dishes, top restaurants, and drinks associated with the city.

What is the famous food in Manchester?

Manchester is well known for its classic dish, the Lancashire hotpot.

Another local favourite is the Manchester tart, a sweet dessert with custard and jam.

The city also has a strong curry culture, influenced by South Asian cuisine.

Are there any Michelin star restaurants in Manchester?

Yes, Manchester has several Michelin star restaurants.

Some well-regarded places include certain seafood and modern British kitchens.

These venues offer refined menus and high standards in service and ingredients.

Where to go for dinner in Manchester?

For dinner, try Tattu Manchester for modern Chinese or Dishoom Manchester for Indian cuisine.

Hawksmoor Manchester is great for steak.

The Refuge is also popular for its varied menu and atmosphere.

Another Hand offers a unique dining experience with creative dishes.

Is Manchester good for food?

Manchester has a strong reputation for food.

The city offers a wide range of dining options, from traditional British to international cuisine.

Many venues have earned praise from critics and locals.

What drink is Manchester known for?

Manchester is linked with classic British ales and craft beers.

The city has a lively pub culture with many breweries producing local beers.

Gin has also grown in popularity here.

Where do celebrities eat in Manchester?

Celebrities often visit well-known restaurants such as Hawksmoor Manchester and Dishoom Manchester. These places offer quality food and discreet service.

Some celebrities choose less conspicuous venues like Another Hand. They go there for a more intimate dining experience.