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10 Manchester Pubs That Prove Hearty Food and Great Drinks Are the Perfect Pair
Ah, Manchester—a city known for its rain, football, and, of course, its pubs. But we’re not just here for any pub, mate. We’re talking about the ones where the food is so good, it rivals the drinks (yes, even that perfect pint you’ve been dreaming about all day).
Now, I’m not one to turn down a bag of crisps with my lager, but let’s be real: there’s something magical about a pub where the food makes you want to cancel your plans and order another round just to keep eating.
I once stumbled into one of these pubs “just for a quick pint” and ended up tucking into a Sunday roast so massive I needed a nap halfway through. And don’t even get me started on the sticky toffee puddings—one bite, and suddenly my gym membership felt very optional.
Follow along as we explore the best Manchester pubs where hearty food and great drinks come together like Liam and Noel Gallagher (on a good day).
The Old Wellington
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Address: 4 Cathedral Gates
Contact: +44 161 839 5179
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 11AM-11PM
- Sat 10AM-12AM
- Sun 10AM-10:30PM
Pricing: ££
Built in the 1550s, this place is like stepping into a history book, but with a menu full of British classics to keep you well-fed while you soak in the Tudor vibes. Inside, the low wooden beams and creaky floors remind you it’s stood through centuries of Manchester’s hustle and bustle.
The food here is comfort incarnate—proper beer-battered fish and chips that arrive crisp and golden with a heap of mushy peas, or their steak and ale pie, which is so hearty it could double as a winter blanket.
Feeling snacky? Go for a sausage roll or a scotch egg from their nibbles menu—they’re perfect with a pint. Speaking of drinks, their cask ales are top-notch, and gin enthusiasts will be happy with their well-stocked bar.
Seating’s a treat too. Upstairs, it’s a bit quieter, so if you’re not into the usual pub buzz, that’s your spot. Outside, the terrace gets lively, especially when the sun’s out—it’s the best place to people-watch with a pint in hand.
| Pro tip: Sticky toffee pudding here is non-negotiable. It’s warm, gooey, and worth every calorie. |
The Wharf
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Address: 6 Slate Wharf
Contact details: +44 161 220 2960
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Located in Castlefield, this canalside pub has “relax and unwind” written all over it. The interior is as charming as it gets—think wooden beams, roaring fireplaces, and shelves lined with books.
But it’s the outside that steals the show: a sprawling terrace overlooking the canal, perfect for those rare sunny Manchester days. Now, onto the food. Their signature burger is a crowd-pleaser, stacked with bacon, cheese, and a bun that’s just the right amount of soft.
Their slow-cooked lamb shoulder stew or their roast chicken supreme will have you wiping the plate clean. They’ve also got vegan options, and their Sunday roasts are the stuff of legend—fluffy Yorkshire puddings, perfectly cooked meat, and all the trimmings.
The drinks menu doesn’t disappoint either. Ales, lagers, wines, and craft spirits—whatever your preference, they’ve got you sorted. And if you’re feeling indulgent, their sticky toffee pudding might just beat the one at The Old Wellington (but don’t quote us).
| Pro tip: Book ahead if you want a spot by the canal. Those tables fill up faster than a Mancunian pub on derby day. |
Worsley Old Hall
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Address: Walkden Rd
Contact details: +44 161 703 8706
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: ££
From the moment you walk in at Worsley Old Hall , you’re hit with that cosy-yet-refined vibe—big fireplaces, leather armchairs, and views of lush green gardens. If you’ve been searching for a pub where you can linger for hours, this is it.
Their menu doesn’t mess about. The chargrilled steaks are cooked to perfection, juicy with just the right sear. Their steak and ale pie feels like a warm hug from your nan, and if you’re into seafood, their daily fish specials are as fresh as it gets.
Oh, and vegetarians are looked after too, with options like a roasted vegetable tart that’s anything but boring.Pair your meal with one of their local craft ales, or, if you’re feeling fancy, a glass of wine from their extensive list.
And don’t even get us started on desserts—the sticky pork belly bites might sound like a starter, but trust us, they double as a cheeky pudding when dipped in their tangy apple glaze.
| Pro tip: Get there early if you want a seat outside, the garden area is Manchester’s worst-kept secret when the sun’s shining. |
The Bay Horse Tavern
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Address: 35-37 Thomas St, Northern Quarter
Contact details: +44 161 669 5799
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-12AM
Pricing: ££
The Bay Horse Tavern in the Northern Quarter feels like a classic British pub, but cooler. Walk in, and you’ll be greeted by cosy booths, a retro jukebox, and that warm, welcoming vibe that the NQ does so well.
When it comes to food, they’ve nailed the classics. Their pie of the day is always a winner—rich fillings in buttery pastry that melts in your mouth. Pair it with a pint, and you’re sorted.
Feeling snacky? The sausage rolls here are legendary, and their mac ‘n’ cheese is the definition of comfort food. Bonus: there’s a cracking Sunday roast that’s both hearty and affordable.
Drinks-wise, it’s all about local ales, craft beers, and proper gin and tonics. And if you’re staying late, their cocktail list has some surprisingly creative options for a pub.
| Pro tip: Don’t skip their sticky toffee pudding, it’s a proper pub dessert done to perfection. |
Sandbar Manchester
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Address: 120 Grosvenor St, All Saints
Contact Details: +44 161 273 1552
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun 12PM–12AM
Pricing: ££
Website
Sandbar is the kind of place you’d visit for a casual drink and end up staying for the food, thanks to its quirky charm and chilled-out vibe. The exposed brick walls and mismatched furniture make it feel like your mate’s trendy loft, but with far better beer on tap.
The food here leans towards hearty and satisfying, with a menu that caters to everyone. Veggie? No problem—they do a cracking vegetarian burger and loaded nachos. Carnivore? The steak sandwiches and BBQ chicken wings will have you licking your fingers.
They’ve also got a solid range of pizzas that hit the spot every time. But the real showstopper is the drinks. Sandbar prides itself on its extensive selection of craft ales and lagers, with rotating guest taps showcasing some of the best brews around.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye out for their beer festivals, they’re a dream for ale enthusiasts and always draw a lively crowd. |
Croft NQ Bar and Kitchen
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Address: 26 Newton St, Northern Quarter
Contact Details: +44 161 236 8300
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun 12PM–12AM
Pricing: £££
Croft NQ is one of those places that perfectly captures the essence of the Northern Quarter—quirky, stylish, and just a little bit edgy.
The food here is all about bold flavours. Their fried chicken burger is a thing of beauty—crispy, juicy, and topped with just the right amount of spicy mayo.
The loaded fries are practically a meal on their own, and their small plates, like Korean BBQ wings and halloumi fries, are perfect for sharing. Drinks are where Croft NQ really shines.
Craft beers, creative cocktails, and a well-curated wine list mean there’s something for everyone, whether you’re just popping in for a quick pint or settling in for the evening.
| Pro tip: Go during happy hour for discounted drinks and small plates, it’s the best way to sample their menu without breaking the bank. |
The Marble Arch Inn
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Address: 73 Rochdale Rd
Contact details: +44 161 832 5914
Operating Hours: Every Monday, 7PM
Pricing: ££
Website
This Grade II-listed building is home to one of Manchester’s finest microbreweries, Marble Beers, so you know the pints are going to be good. Inside, it’s all about old-school charm, with a sloping mosaic floor, a roaring fireplace, and walls adorned with beer-related memorabilia.
The food? Let’s just say it’s gastropub quality without the pretension. Their wild boar sausage roll is a game-changer—perfectly spiced meat wrapped in buttery pastry, served with a tangy chutney.
If you’re after a full meal, the roast pork belly with creamy mash and apple gravy is the stuff dreams are made of. As for the beer, it’s brewed just metres away, so you’re guaranteed freshness. Try their iconic Marble Pint or experiment with their seasonal brews.
| Pro tip: Check out their tasting paddles if you can’t decide on just one beer. It’s a great way to sample the brewery’s best. |
The Black Friar
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Address: 41-43 Blackfriars Rd, Salford
Contact Details: +44 161 667 9555
Operating Hours: Mon–Sun 12PM–12AM
Pricing: £££
Website
The Black Friar is a shining example of a pub that’s mastered the art of reinvention. Once a derelict Victorian boozer, it’s now a stunning space that blends the old with the new.
The menu is a celebration of British flavours with a modern twist. Their beef shin suet pudding is the star of the show, served with mashed potatoes, heritage carrots, and gravy so rich you’ll want to drink it.
If you’re after something lighter, their smoked haddock Scotch egg with curry sauce is a unique and delicious option.
Drinks-wise, they’ve got a brilliant selection of wines, craft beers, and cocktails, so whether you’re winding down after work or starting your evening out, they’ve got you covered.
| Pro tip: The garden area is perfect for sunny afternoons, but it’s just as magical in the evenings with its fairy lights and cosy vibes. |
The Oast House – Manchester
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Address: The Avenue Courtyard, Spinningfields, Crown Square
Contact Details: +44 161 829 3830
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Wed 12PM-12AM
- Thurs – Sat 12PM-2AM
- Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: £££
Website
The Oast House in Spinningfields is a buzzing spot that combines quirky charm with hearty food and an unbeatable vibe. This place is all about rustic aesthetics—a huge wooden barn-style pub with twinkling fairy lights, fire pits, and live music on most nights.
The hanging kebabs are their signature dish, and trust us, they live up to the hype. Choose from options like chicken, lamb kofta, or halloumi, all served with a drizzle of sweet chilli and garlic butter that drips onto your fries below—it’s messy but oh-so-worth it.
If kebabs aren’t your thing, their salt and pepper chicken wings and mac ‘n’ cheese are excellent alternatives. The drinks menu is just as impressive, featuring everything from craft ales to bespoke cocktails.
And when the sun’s out, the sprawling courtyard transforms into a bustling beer garden, perfect for soaking up the vibes.
| Pro tip: Visit during one of their “Ales and Tales” evenings to enjoy storytelling performances with your pint. It’s a unique experience you won’t forget. |
