Categories > Guides and Tips
Find Your New Favourite: 20 Hottest Manchester Centre Restaurants That’ll Satisfy Your Cravings!
- ‘Tango’ with Argentinian Food at Gaucho Manchester
- Have a Pre-show Meal at Mamucium
- Dine Sky-High at 20 Stories
- Try out the Season’s Latest Flavours at KALA
- Get a Proper English Steak at Hawksmoor Manchester
- Taste the Vibrant Caribbean at Turtle Bay Manchester NQ
- Drop to the Beat (and Chips) at The Hip Hop Chip Shop
- Taste Eastern Europe at the Armenian Taverna Manchester
- Enjoy Tapas Galore at El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
- Do a Ramen Run at Shoryu
- Get Indian Grubs at Bundobust Manchester Piccadilly
- Grab Some Al Dente Pasta at Vincenzo Trattoria
- Go Classically British at Annies
- Grab Southern Bites at The Blues Kitchen Manchester
- Dine like It’s the ‘20s at Gusto
- Taste the Fresh Sea at Street Urchin
- Catch the Quarter’s Specials at TNQ Restaurant & Bar
- Savour the Far East at Tampopo - Albert Square
- Enjoy the Spätzle at The Spärrows
- Eat Like an Indian Freemason at Dishoom Manchester
The Bumble gods have finally smiled upon you with a fantastic match! Now, the big question is: where to go for that much-anticipated first date? Are you in the mood for something posh and fancy, or does a cosy spot that’s easy on the wallet sound more appealing?
But hey, if you’re still waiting for that special someone, why not treat yourself? Indulge in a delightful meal or enjoy a grand dinner with family.
Dive into our guide, crafted with love, sweat, and a few happy tears. Enjoy!
‘Tango’ with Argentinian Food at Gaucho Manchester
Media from Gaucho Manchester
Address: 2A St Mary’s St, Manchester M3 2LB
Contact details: 0161 833 4333
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Friday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 11:30 PM
Gaucho’s branch in Manchester city centre is a must-visit if you love classic architecture, Argentinian steaks, and fine wine. Housed in a stunning church off Deansgate, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience.
The food is truly divine. Be sure to try the Churrasco de Chorizo (a specialty cut sirloin marinated in olive oil, garlic, and parsley), then pair it with a glass of Sémillon or Torrontés for a perfect match.
We highly recommend dining here at least once. Whether it’s a first date or a special family occasion, your reputation will only be enhanced by the lovely experience.
Pro tip: They have a signature “Steak Night Date Night” on Wednesdays!
Have a Pre-show Meal at Mamucium
Media from Mamucium Manchester
Address: Hotel Indigo Manchester – Victoria Station, 6 Todd Street, Manchester, M3 1WU
Contact details: 0161 359 7498
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday – 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday – 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Mamucium is a restaurant and bar on the lower ground floor of Hotel Indigo near Victoria Station. It’s popular with hotel guests, Northern Quarter shoppers, and AO Arena audiences.
The ambience is fantastic, featuring modern and lavish interiors, complemented by the warm and welcoming staff.
Mamucium serves delicious, luxurious international-style cuisine from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. They also have vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options for diners with food sensitivities.
Consider booking a pre-show dinner service. Pair their best-selling Moving Mountain Vegan Burger with a draught beer, like the Camden Pale Ale, for extra points with your companion.
Pro tip: Mamucium offers better dinner service than breakfast (they’re pretty slow in the morning), so we suggest you go somewhere else if you plan a breakfast date.
Dine Sky-High at 20 Stories
Media from 20 Stories Manchester
Address: No 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Spinningfields, Manchester, M3 3EB
Contact details: 0161 204 3333
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
20 Stories is a unique modern British restaurant in Spinningfields. Most famous for its stunning 360-degree aerial view of the city, this aptly-named resto has diners awed in both the food, drinks (including beers), and the atmosphere.
20 Stories specialises in modern European cuisine for lunch or dinner. It also offers brunch, afternoon tea, and a full bar for those looking for lighter fare.
Try this out from the lunch set: a seared salmon fillet with fine beans, shallots, and garlic. Then, finish it with any of their modern or vintage wines for a delicious and refreshing meal.
Pro tip: Mind the check (for a little bit). Food and drinks here at 20 Stories are subject to a service charge that includes a donation to charity.
Try out the Season’s Latest Flavours at KALA
Media from KALA
Address: 55 King St, Manchester M2 4LQ
Contact details: 0161 839 3030
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 8:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Modern British bistro KALA is situated on a bustling King Street corner. It may look quaint from the outside, but inside, it boasts luxe mid-century vibe interiors that pack a punch.
KALA has a new menu every season, which is a refreshing idea.
While the Confit Duck Leg is a crowd favourite, we also recommend trying the Braised Featherblade of Beef paired with a Malbec.
The menu card conveniently suggests the best wine pairings for each dish. There’s also menu inclusions for people with allergies or special diets.
Foray to the bar area if you’re not into food for the night.
Pro tip: KALA has an open kitchen, which is great if you like to have front-row seats for the preparation of your meals.
Get a Proper English Steak at Hawksmoor Manchester
Media from Hawksmoor Manchester
Location: 184 – 186 Deansgate, Manchester M3 3WB
Contact: 0161 836 6980
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 PM to 9:00 PM
If you’re exploring Spinningfields, don’t miss the Manchester branch of Hawksmoor. Nestled in a converted courthouse, it combines Victorian charm with a modern twist.
Hawksmoor is renowned for its delicious food, desserts, and drink pairings, with the steaks being the standout stars.
For a memorable meal, try the Chateaubriand, perfect for sharing with a date or family. Pair it with some creamy mash and rich gravy, and finish off with their irresistible sticky toffee pudding.
The service here is top-notch, making it a place you’ll want to return to for another delightful experience.
Pro tip: The Hawksmoor premises tend to get uncomfortably noisy with music and people chattering. So, it might not be a good choice for intimate meals (but still great for groups).
Taste the Vibrant Caribbean at Turtle Bay Manchester NQ
Media from Turtle Bay Restaurants
Address: 46-50 Oldham Street, Northern Quarter, Manchester M4 1LE
Contact details: 0161 235 8411
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Friday – 11:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Experience the Caribbean without hopping on a plane at Turtle Bay in Manchester NQ. This lively joint has all the right bells and whistles for an enjoyable meal.
Must-try dishes are the Jerk Chicken and Curry Goat, both served with coconut rice and peas for a well-balanced meal. Be prepared for some heat though, as the food tends to be spicy.
Pair your meal with a refreshing drink or cocktail to cool down.
The atmosphere and decor are lively and inviting, making Turtle Bay a great choice for a fun date night. Enjoy the vibrant ambiance and let the Caribbean vibes transport you.
Pro tip: The Turtle Bay NQ’s most popular offering is the Bottomless Brunch, available from Sunday to Friday. Patrons can enjoy any brunch dish along with unlimited cocktails and drinks, all at a great value, so don’t miss it!
Drop to the Beat (and Chips) at The Hip Hop Chip Shop
Media from Hip Hop Chip Shop
Address: 44 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6BF
Contact details: 0161 536 3465
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Thursday and Friday – 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 8:00 PM
- Monday and Tuesday – CLOSED
Look no further than The Hip Hop Chip Shop in the Ancoats for a casual night out. The name is straightforward: it serves typical, deep-fried British street food.
What sets it apart is its unique vibe. The interiors feature an industrial motif, graffiti-style elements, and a hip-hop playlist, making it much cooler than your typical chip shop.
The food is beyond our crunchy expectations, known UK-wide for its great flavour.
My personal go-to is a hefty serving of Fish and Chips with mushy peas. For a lighter option, try the Halloumi Wrap, and pair your meal with a pint of local or Belgian beer.
Pro tip: The Hip Hop Chip Shop’s hours are a bit weird, as it closes twice a week. Check out its social media pages for any special note on business hours (or events!) before you stop by.
Taste Eastern Europe at the Armenian Taverna Manchester
Media from Ben Topliss
Address: Albert Square, 3-5 Princess Street, Manchester M2 4DF
Contact details: 0161 834 9025
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
The Armenian Taverna & Restaurant is considered a culinary gem and one of the oldest restaurants in Manchester. This historic spot has been serving authentic Armenian and Eastern European cuisine since 1968.
While long-time patrons may remember the Taverna mostly for its quaint Soviet-era decor, it has recently been ushered into the modern era with new and more elegant furnishings.
Begin your meal with the popular Yerevan Khachapuri, a visually stunning bread dish topped with an egg. Then, savour any of the Khorovat, freshly grilled meats marinated with traditional Armenian spices.
The food and wine here are truly exquisite, making it a must-visit for any food lover.
Pro tip: Armenian cuisine is perfect for sharing, making The Armenian Taverna an ideal spot for family gatherings rather than dining solo.
Enjoy Tapas Galore at El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
Media from El Gato Negro Tapas
Address: 52 King Street, Manchester, M2 4LY
Contact details: 0161 694 8585
Operating hours: Monday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Pricing: £
Website
Menu
For a night of flair and passion, head to El Gato Negro (translation: The Black Cat) and indulge in authentic Spanish tapas. This restaurant boasts a Michelin Bib Gourmand, signifying excellent food that’s value for money.
Housed in a converted townhouse, El Gato Negro combines sleek, modern design with charming and rustic touches. Don’t miss the al fresco dining and bar on the top floor, perfect for enjoying summer nights.
When it comes to the menu, try the Chorizo Iberico if you love charcuterie, or the Calamares Fritos for a delightful seafood option. We hope you enjoy your Spanish culinary journey in the heart of Manchester.
Pro tip: As of this writing, El Gato Negro has a 3 for £20 promotion, allowing you to sample more of their bestseller tapas in one sitting. Definitely bang for the buck!
Do a Ramen Run at Shoryu
Media from Shoryu Ramen
Address: One Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester M1 1RG
Contact details: 20 3405 7550
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
- Wednesday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 11:00 PM
For those extra cold days, consider taking your date or family to Shoryu Ramen in Piccadilly Gardens. It’s a great spot to experience genuine Japanese cuisine.
Shoryu features sleek, modern Japanese interiors, creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. Don’t be surprised if the table next to yours has diners looking like they’re from an Anime or Manga, as the shop loves cosplayers!
A bowl of hot Hakata-style ramen from here is perfect for warming up cold hands and hearts. Be sure to try the Kotteri Hakata Tonkotsu ramen for its authentic flavour, and don’t miss the Matcha Ice Cream for a delightful dessert.
Pro tip: Shoryu is passionate about showcasing Japanese culture! Keep an eye out for promotions, often timed to celebrate well-loved anime shows.
Get Indian Grubs at Bundobust Manchester Piccadilly
Media from Bundobust
Address: 61 Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 2AG
Contact details: 0161 359 6757
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM
For casual Indian dining, head to Bundobust Manchester Piccadilly. Whether it’s for Happy Thursdays or a quick bite, the ambience is perfect when the place is bustling with people.
Bundobust offers tasty food and drinks, though the fare leans more towards English-Indian fusion rather than strictly authentic Indian cuisine. This blend, however, adds to its unique charm.
Be sure to try the crispy Okra Fries, which pair wonderfully with a pint of craft beer. If you’re dining with a companion, opt for the combo for two to get the best value for your money. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and tasty dishes!
Pro tip: Portion sizes at Bundobust can be on the smaller side, especially for the “Munch” menu items. It’s a good idea to order a couple of these dishes (if you like them a la carte) to ensure you leave full and satisfied.
Grab Some Al Dente Pasta at Vincenzo Trattoria
Media from Vincenzo Trattoria
Address: 34 St Ann St, Manchester M2 7LE
Contact details: 0161 833 1000
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Italian cuisine is always a crowd-pleaser, making Vincenzo Trattoria an easy recommendation for a cosy dinner date. Conveniently located near Deansgate, Market Street, and St Peter’s Square, Vincenzo is the perfect spot to visit after a leisurely stroll.
This small restaurant boasts charming decor, with a ceiling full of flowers and classic Italian-style furniture that creates a welcoming yet magical atmosphere.
The flavours here are authentically Italian. Be sure to try the crunchy Calamari Fritti as a starter and the hearty Cannelloni Paesani pasta, featuring a delicious béchamel and tomato sauce. Buon appetito amico mio!
Pro tip: This place gets packed quite easily because of the small floor area. To guarantee seating, it’s best to reserve a table in advance (smaller groups also have better chances of getting seated right away).
Go Classically British at Annies
Media from Annies Manchester
Address: 5 Old Bank Street, The Royal Exchange, Manchester, M2 7PE
Contact details: 0161 839 4423
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Annies, located near St Anne’s Square (pun might be intended), is a go-to for excellent service and home-style, classic British cooking. Being located in one of the busiest places in Manchester centre, it’s hard not to mention this on our list.
The decor here is simple and unpretentious, much like the menu. However, the taste and quality of the dishes prove that sometimes, simplicity is best.
Since Annies open at 10 AM, it’s a great place to get the standard British breakfast. It’s also a great spot for afternoon tea, but we frequent this place the most for the Shepherd’s Pie.
Pro tip: Annies is located in a theatre building, so it’s just natural for it to offer pre-theatre show dining. Do note that it closes quite early—8:30 PM, even on the weekend.
Grab Southern Bites at The Blues Kitchen Manchester
Media from The Blues Kitchen Manchester
Address: 13 Quay St, Manchester M3 3HN
Contact details: 0161 823 6343
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Tuesday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 PM to 3:00 AM
Visit The Blues Kitchen in Manchester to experience the American South for a night. As the name suggests, this spot features live jazz and blues music, southern food, and great drinks (it’s also in our list of top bars in Spinningfields).
The juke joint decor is authentic and cosy, with spacious booths and a large stage that enhance the lively and vibrant atmosphere, perfectly matching the theme.
Lastly, the food here is a highlight best paired with the alcoholic drinks. The Crispy Chicken Sandwich is one of our favourites for its juicy yet crispy chicken smothered with hot honey sauce.
Pro tip: Since live music performances are the main attraction at The Blues Kitchen, be sure to check the bar’s website for gig schedules and announcements.
Dine like It’s the ‘20s at Gusto
Media from Gusto Italian
Address: 4 Lloyd Street, Manchester, M2 5AB
Contact details: 01616 411 120
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Experience classic Italian dining at Gusto, located inside the 1920s-era Grand Elliot House on Deansgate. This restaurant is ideal for group dining, thanks to its large tables and spacious floors, reminiscent of lavish evening parties from the Roaring 20s.
For a memorable meal, try the Chateaubriand steak for two, or the Crab Fettuccine pasta. Gusto also offers a great selection of wines and non-alcoholic drinks for perfect pairings.
Interestingly, while pizza isn’t their specialty, Gusto excels in other Italian dishes, making it a delightful spot for a variety of flavours. Nevertheless, we hope you enjoy dining at Gusto as much as we did.
Pro tip: For exclusive discounts and special offers, consider becoming a member of Gusto’s loyalty programme.
Taste the Fresh Sea at Street Urchin
Media from Street Urchin
Address: 72 Great Ancoats St, Manchester M4 5BG
Contact details: 7470 804979
Operating hours:
- Wednesday and Thursday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 1:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 1:00 PM to 9:30 PM
- Monday and Tuesday – CLOSED
Street Urchin in Ancoats is a modern, stylish restaurant with tall ceilings and lush greenery. At first glance, you might mistake it for a vegan spot due to the abundance of plants and its inland location, but its specialty is actually seafood.
The menu at Street Urchin changes daily, ensuring a fresh and exciting dining experience each time you visit. Every diner is likely to have their own favourites, but one dish that consistently stands out is the chef’s mussel dish of the day—there’s always a novel recipe for it!
Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or just looking to try something new, this place is definitely one to try.
Pro tip: Street Urchin’s menu changes every so often, so email them at [email protected] for the latest information.
Catch the Quarter’s Specials at TNQ Restaurant & Bar
Media from TNQ Restaurant & Bar
Address: 108 High St, Manchester M4 1HQ
Contact details: 0161 832 7115
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Pardon us, but the name is a mouthful, so we’ll stick to calling this place “TNQ.” That minor inconvenience aside, the atmosphere, facilities, and everything else about TNQ is fantastic!
If you’re in the mood for modern British cuisine, TNQ is the place to be for lunch or dinner. The menu, refreshed quarterly by their skillful chefs, always offers something new and exciting.
Currently, our favourite dish is the Roast Lamb Rump from the à la carte menu. Don’t miss out on the Sticky Toffee Pudding, too—it’s a standout dessert that we won’t forget anytime soon.
Pro tip: Drop by TNQ on “Happy Mondays” and “Thirsty Thursdays” for a three-course meal and ‘unlimited’ wine (all you can have within two hours, really).
Savour the Far East at Tampopo – Albert Square
Media from Tampopo Restaurants
Address: 16 Albert Square, Manchester M2 5PF
Contact details: 0161 819 1966
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 10:30 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday – 10:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Another casual dining hotspot is Tampopo in Albert Square. It’s a great place to bring your date or good friends, though it’s best for groups since the tables are loooong.
You can dive into a variety of Asian cuisines, including Malaysian, Thai, Vietnamese, Korean, and Japanese. The dishes are hearty and often come with rice, making it perfect for a cheat day!
For a Friday night out, our top picks are Nasi Goreng, Katsu, and Pad Krapow. Pair any of these with a spiked (or alcohol-free) Thai Coconut Punch cocktail or some soju for a complete experience.
Pro tip: Tampopo is also great for unique brunch dates! Make sure you avail the Bottomless Brunch promo, available until 3:00 PM daily.
Enjoy the Spätzle at The Spärrows
Media from Olivia Fishwick
Address: 16 Red Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M4 4HF
Contact details: 0161 302 6267
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Saturday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Monday – CLOSED
Since you’re already in Europe, why not take a quick “trip across the English Channel” to The Spärrows? Located at Red Bank, this Michelin Bib Gourmand holder offers hearty Central European cuisine with dishes from Germany, Poland, and Italy.
For first-timers, the Käsespätzle is a must-try—this German comfort food features spätzle (a type of egg noodle) covered with Swiss cheese and caramelised onions. The Pierogi, meat-filled Polish dumplings, are also highly recommended.
The Spärrows also has an excellent selection of wines and spirits from the same region to complement your meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s even Japanese saké.
Pro tip: The wines at The Spärrows usually come by the bottle. But if you’re dining solo, there’s a handful of wines and other drinks available per glass.
Eat Like an Indian Freemason at Dishoom Manchester
Media from Dishoom Manchester
Address: 32 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BT
Contact details: 0161 537 3737
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 8:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM
Step back into the glorious era of passion and intellect with a meal at Dishoom Manchester.
Housed in a historic Freemasons’ hall, Dishoom beautifully captures the rich culture of freemasonry in Bombay, India with its marble tables, classic stained glass windows, and elegant colonial-era furniture.
The authentic Indian cuisine at Dishoom is living proof to its great heritage. Some say it’s the closest thing to being back in India itself, and we feel like it’s true.
Signature dishes like the Nalli Nihari Biryani and the House Black Daal promise a satisfying and memorable dining experience.
Pro tip: Dishoom Manchester’s drink menu is as thrilling as its culinary offerings. Enjoy a mix of vintage and contemporary concoctions, available from midday until late night.
