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11 Manchester Restaurants That Serve the Best Pasta in Town
Alright, pasta lovers, listen up! If you’re ready to dive into a fantastic bowl of carbs, you’re in the right place. Manchester’s pasta game is strong, with cosy bistros and buzzing eateries serving up everything from classic carbonaras to fancy squid ink spaghetti.
Which Manchester restaurants offer the best pasta, you say? Well, luckily, we did the legwork so you don’t have to buy a bigger pair of jeans.
These pasta places we discovered know how to do things right, with fresh ingredients and mouth-watering sauces that’ll have you coming back for more!
Cibo
Website: Cibo
Address: 43 Spring Gardens
Contact details: +44 161 834 9741
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
If you’re into pasta, you’ve probably clocked Cibo’s tableside pasta, done up in a massive wheel of cheese. The Penne Reggiano is a belter, but the rest of the menu’s cracking too.
They reckon they’ve got ‘the finest Neapolitan cuisine this side of the Tyrrhenian Sea,’ and it’s hard to argue with dishes like filled cannelloni, proper spaghetti carbonara, fresh lobster risotto, and squid ink spaghetti – with a number of classic favourites available, too.
The vibe here is buzzing, perfect for a special night out or even just a casual meal with mates. Plus, the open kitchen is always fun to watch while you wait.
Pro tip: Try the truffle pasta – it’s a game-changer! |
ASK Italian
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Website: ASK Italian
Address: 1 Piccadilly Gardens
Contact details: +44 161 237 5000
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11:30AM-11PM
ASK Italian is part of a family of 65 restaurants across the UK, all connected by a love of Italy. They really put their heart and soul into the details – like the lemonade taster you get at the start of your meal.
It’s their way of saying, “Sit back, relax, we’ve got this.” Their menu is inspired by Italy, with everything from great Italian classics to gluten-free pizzas and vegan swaps that even meat-eaters will love.
They’re also the first UK chain to use 100% Wildfarmed flour in their dough – pretty impressive, right? The place has a warm, welcoming vibe, making it a great spot for family dinners or catching up with friends. And the service is always friendly and attentive.
Pro tip: Don’t miss their Strozzapreti Pesto Rosso – it’s packed with flavour. |
The Pasta Factory
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Website: The Pasta Factory
Address: 77 Shudehill
Contact details: +44 161 222 9259
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
The Pasta Factory might look unassuming from the outside, but don’t let that fool you. This Shudehill gem is an underdog in Manchester’s pasta scene, serving up fresh pasta made on-site daily.
The menu is a dream for pasta enthusiasts, with dishes like ravioli pomodoro, gnocchi, and burrata bucatini that will have you drooling. It’s the kind of place where you’re spoilt for choice – and trust me, that’s a good problem to have.
The atmosphere inside is cosy and inviting, with a no-frills approach that lets the food do the talking; it’s perfect for a casual dinner with friends or a laid-back date night. The portions are generous, and the flavours are authentic, transporting you straight to Italy.
Pro tip: Their vegan options are top-notch – try the vegan lasagna! |
SUD Pasta
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Website: SUD Pasta
Address: Locations in Altrincham, Ancoats, Sale, and Exhibition
Contact details: +44 161 236 5264
Operating Hours: Varies by location
SUD Pasta, previously known as Sugo, is basically the king of pasta in Manchester. With locations in Altrincham, Ancoats, Sale, and now at Exhibition, they’ve become a staple for pasta lovers.
The menu is a love letter to Southern Italian cuisine, with recipes passed down through generations. Their orecchiette pasta is a must-try – it’s perfect for catching all the flavours of their rich, hearty sauces.
The slow-cooked beef shin, pork shoulder, and Tuscan sausage are absolute winners. If you’re a fan of seafood, the swordfish and nduja is a standout dish.
Pro tip: Order the orecchiette with slow-cooked beef shin – it’s the real deal! |
Salvi’s
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Website: Salvi’s
Address: 19 John Dalton St
Contact details: +44 161 222 8021
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Salvi’s is a bit of a Manchester institution, especially if you’re into proper Italian grub. Run by Maurizio Cecco, this place feels like a little slice of Naples right in the city.
They’ve been around for ten years, and it’s no wonder they’ve stuck around – the food is spot on. The gnocchi is a personal fave, but you can’t really go wrong with anything on the menu.
And don’t forget to check out their pizzas and pastas – multiple visits might be needed to try it all! The burrata and seafood linguine also come highly recommended. The wine list is impressive too, with a good selection of Italian wines to complement your meal.
And for dessert? Their tiramisu is a crowd favourite.
Pro tip: Start with the gnocchi – you won’t regret it! |
Don Marco
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Website: Don Marco
Address: 1-3 Campfield Ave Arcade
Contact details: +44 161 833 1456
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Don Marco is your go-to for a cosy, Italian dining experience right in the heart of Manchester. The menu is packed with all the classics – think spaghetti alle vongole, rich lasagna, and creamy carbonara.
The place has a laid-back, rustic charm that makes you feel right at home. They’ve also got a great selection of wines to pair with your meal, so you can really make an evening of it; it’s perfect for a casual date night or a catch-up with friends.
The portions are generous, and the flavours are spot on. The tiramisu here is a perfect way to end your meal, so make sure to save room for dessert and if you’re in the mood for something lighter, their antipasti selection is a great way to start your meal.
Pro tip: Try the spaghetti alle vongole – it’s a classic done right! |
San Carlo
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Website: San Carlo
Address: 40-42 King St W
Contact details: +44 161 834 6226
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
San Carlo is a well-loved name across the UK, and their Manchester locations – Bottega, Cicchetti, Fumo, and the main San Carlo venue. Their pasta dishes are a highlight, boasting everything from Spaghetti Vongole with baby clams to indulgent Ravioli Lobster.
If you’re a fan of Southern Italian flavours, the Rigatoni alla Norma is a must-try, bursting with aubergine and ricotta. The atmosphere is a blend of luxury and comfort, making it ideal for anything from a posh night out to a casual lunch.
They also offer huge sharing bowls of pasta, perfect for a romantic dinner or a feast with friends. Plus, their antipasti and Italian bread are the perfect starters to whet your appetite.
Pro tip: Get a sharing bowl of pasta – it’s a fun and tasty way to try more of the menu! |
Sicilian NQ
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Website: Sicilian NQ
Address: 14 Turner St
Contact details: +44 161 834 7250
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Sicilian NQ is your go-to spot for a cosy, neighbourhood vibe right in Manchester’s city centre. Specialising in Sicilian cuisine, this bistro serves up hearty, comforting pasta dishes that feel like a warm hug.
Their menu is extensive and filled with delicious options like meaty tortellini, swordfish ravioli, and wonderfully hearty gnocchi. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect place to unwind with a good meal.
The portions are generous, so you’ll leave feeling satisfied. And if you’re into seafood, their swordfish ravioli is a standout choice that’s both unique and delicious.
Pro tip: Try the swordfish ravioli – it’s a unique and delicious choice! |
Ornella’s Kitchen
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Website: Ornella’s Kitchen
Address: 123 High St
Contact details: +44 161 833 8818
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM
Ornella’s Kitchen is a delightful spot that brings a bit of Sicily to Manchester, thanks to the passion and expertise of Sicilian-born Ornella Cancila. This unassuming pasta-deli is all about top-quality ingredients and authentic flavours.
Whether you pop in for a casual lunch or a relaxed dinner, you’ll be treated to fantastic dishes like lobster ravioli, minty lamb shoulder ragú pappardelle, and bucatini carbonara. Their filled sourdough focaccia is also a hit, perfect for a lighter bite.
They also offer a selection of Sicilian wines that pair beautifully with the food. These wines are carefully curated to complement the menu, enhancing the flavours of each dish.
Pro tip: Go for the minty lamb shoulder ragú pappardelle – it’s a flavour explosion! |
Onda Pasta Bar
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Website: Onda Pasta Bar
Address: Circle Square, 3 Symphony Park, Oxford Rd
Contact details: +44 161 834 6212
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Onda Pasta Bar is the new kid on the block, setting up shop at The New Cross in Ancoats; if you love Gooey’s baked goods, you’ll definitely want to check out their pasta bar. Onda’s fresh, homemade pasta dishes are taking social media by storm, especially their tiramisu drawer.
But let’s talk pasta: their pici pasta with cacio e pepe is a peppery, cheesy delight that’s not to be missed. The fettuccine with garlic mussels is another favourite, offering a garlicky kick with tender mussels.
The beef shin campanelle is perfect for meat lovers, while the lumache with ‘nduja and vodka adds a spicy twist to your pasta experience. The place has a modern, cosy vibe, making it perfect for a date night or a casual meal with friends.
Just a heads up, Onda gets booked up quickly, so plan ahead or try your luck with a walk-in.
Pro tip: Try the pici pasta with cacio e pepe – it’s a peppery, cheesy delight that’ll make your taste buds dance! |
Zizzi – Manchester Piccadilly
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Website: Zizzi
Address: Piccadilly Gardens
Contact details: +44 161 234 3334
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11:30AM-11PM
Zizzi at Manchester Piccadilly is your go-to for a laid-back Italian meal right near Piccadilly Gardens. It’s the perfect spot to catch up with friends or family, offering a wide range of Italian classics.
You can’t go wrong with their pizzas, pastas, and risottos, but their menu also includes fresh salads and indulgent desserts. They’re known for catering to everyone, with extensive vegetarian, vegan, and non-gluten options.
If you’re dining with kids, their Bambini menu is a hit. The restaurant itself has a relaxed, welcoming vibe, and if the weather’s nice, you can enjoy your meal in their outdoor seating area.
Pro tip: Their garlic bread with mozzarella is a must-try – it’s the perfect way to start your meal and is sure to be a crowd-pleaser! |