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Explore the 9 Best Restaurants in Media City Manchester for Foodies and First-Timers
Let’s face it, Media City isn’t just about TV studios, podcasts, and endless re-runs of Coronation Street. It’s also home to some absolute belters when it comes to food.
Now, as someone who once wandered around Media City thinking, Where do people actually eat around here without ending up in a Greggs queue?, I can assure you, this list is gold.
We’ve rounded up everything from fancy rooftop vibes to laid-back spots for noodles or kebabs (because sometimes, all you need is food on a stick).
Let’s get into the tastiest spots Media City has to offer. And trust me – if this list doesn’t have you drooling, you’re probably doing it wrong.
The Alchemist MediaCityUK
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Address: 3 Hardman St
Contact Details: +44 161 817 2950
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Wed 8AM-12AM
- Thurs – Fri 8AM-2AM
- Sat 10AM-2AM
- Sun 10AM-11PM
Pricing: £££
Let’s kick things off with The Alchemist, the place where cocktails come with a side of magic – literally. Think bubbling beakers, smoky drinks, and creations that look like they belong in a science lab rather than a bar.
But it’s not just for the boozy crowd; the food here holds its own. First-timers, go for the Katsu Chicken Burger – it’s crispy, golden, and paired with punchy slaw. Fancy sharing? Their Tapas Selection has something for everyone – from halloumi fries to crispy pork bites.
And yes, they’re just as Instagrammable as the drinks. The vibe? Modern, buzzing, and slick, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over Media City – perfect for watching the world go by while sipping on a Smokey Old Fashioned.
| Pro tip: Visit during their happy hour for cocktail deals, it’s the best way to get the full Alchemist experience without smashing the budget. |
The Botanist Media City
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Address: 1038 Canada Pl
Contact details: +1 604-695-5500
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 7AM-10PM
Pricing: $$
Walking into The Botanist feels like stepping into a secret garden – all rustic wood, twinkling fairy lights, and an easy-going charm. It’s one of those places that works whether you’re out with your mates, on a date, or just grabbing a cheeky solo pint with a good book.
The Hanging Kebabs are their signature, and rightly so – think juicy chicken, steak, or halloumi dangling above a bowl, slowly dripping with sauce. If kebabs aren’t your thing, the Fish and Chips comes in massive portions with the crispiest batter you’ll find outside a seaside chippy.
Drinks are where they shine, though – they’re called The Botanist for a reason. Their botanical-themed cocktails like the Raspberry Disaronno Sour and Passionfruit Martini are light, zesty, and dangerously drinkable.
| Pro tip: Order a Hanging Kebab with a side of their legendary seasoned fries – the perfect combo. Oh, and grab a seat outside when the sun’s out; the views of Media City are stunning. |
wagamama Manchester Media City
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 749 0800
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-11PM
Pricing: ££
You know what you’re getting with wagamama, and that’s not a bad thing – steaming bowls of ramen, sizzling plates of teppanyaki, and enough sides to share (or keep to yourself, no judgement).
At Media City, it’s fast, friendly, and ideal for when you want something flavour-packed without the fuss. If you’re new to wagamama, start with their Chicken Katsu Curry – crispy, golden chicken slathered in rich, aromatic curry sauce, served with fluffy rice.
Want something lighter? The Yasai Ramen is fresh, comforting, and vegetarian-friendly. And for spice lovers, the Chilli Chicken Ramen will have you reaching for a second glass of water in the best way.
The atmosphere is lively and laid-back, with communal tables that make it perfect for grabbing a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner with friends. Bonus points for the fact they’re fast – no waiting around when you’re starving.
| Pro tip: Get the Bang Bang Cauliflower, crispy, sweet, and spicy all at once. It’s the kind of starter you’ll dream about later. |
Turtle Bay Manchester Oxford Rd
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Address: 46-50 Oldham St
Contact details: +44 161 235 1010
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Thu 11AM-12AM
- Fri – Sat 11AM-1AM
- Sun 11AM-11PM
Pricing: ££
Alright, mate, if you’re after a proper good time with food that slaps, Turtle Bay is the Caribbean escape Manchester never knew it needed. Walking in, you’re greeted by reggae beats, neon signs, and a buzz that screams, “forget your diet, you’re here for a feast.”
The menu is like a greatest hits of Caribbean cuisine. First-timers? Go big or go home with the Jerk Pit Platter – it’s stacked with jerk chicken, pork ribs, and grilled jerk wings, all smoked to perfection. Want a bit of heat without setting your mouth on fire?
The Curry Goat is tender, rich, and paired with coconut rice that balances the spice. Vegans, don’t panic – the Sweetcorn Fritters and Vegan MotherClucker Burger will sort you right out.
Drinks? Oh, they’re not messing around here.
The cocktail list is rum-heavy, tropical, and dangerously good. Think Mango Mojitos, Jamaican Mule, and their infamous 2-4-1 happy hour that runs all day, every day.
| Pro tip: Get here early if it’s the weekend – the place fills up quicker than you can say “more rum punch.” Oh, and don’t skip the Mac & Cheese, it’s the creamy, cheesy goodness you didn’t know you needed alongside jerk chicken. |
Another Hand
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Address: 45 High St
Contact details: +44 161 432 5678
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 12PM-10PM
- Sat – Sun 11AM-11PM
Here’s the deal: everything on the menu is locally sourced, seasonal, and packed with flavour. The dishes are small plates designed for sharing, so don’t expect massive portions – but trust us, it’s all quality over quantity here.
You’re looking at things like Burrata with heritage tomatoes, Crispy Ox Tongue, and their crowd-favourite Lamb Shoulder with fermented greens. Each bite feels like the chef’s showing off (in a good way).
The drinks deserve a shout too – they’ve got an ace selection of natural wines and locally brewed beers that pair perfectly with the food.
| Pro tip: Grab a seat by the open kitchen and watch the chefs work their magic, it’s like a mini show to go with your dinner. |
Dishoom Manchester
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Address: 32 Bridge St
Contact details: +44 161 537 3737
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 8AM-11PM
- Sat 9AM-11PM
- Sun 9AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
If you’ve never stepped into Dishoom, prepare for your jaw to drop – and not just because of the smell of slow-cooked Black Daal wafting through the air. This place is part restaurant, part time machine, transporting you straight to 20th-century Bombay with its vintage Irani café charm.
First-timers should start with the Keema Pau – spiced lamb mince served with buttery buns for scooping, aka a game-changer. Follow it up with the Chicken Ruby Curry, rich, creamy, and loaded with flavour.
It pairs beautifully with the soft, freshly baked Roomali Roti – they literally roll it out in front of you. And don’t leave without trying the legendary 24-hour Black Daal. It’s slow-cooked, smoky, and honestly, a bit life-changing.
If you’re starting the day, their Bacon Naan Roll with a steaming cup of House Chai is a morning delight that’ll ruin regular bacon butties forever. Evening plans? Hit up the Permit Room bar for a cheeky Viceroy Old-Fashioned or a cooling Bollywood Iced Tea.
| Pro tip: Skip the faff of reservations and swing by early for a walk-in spot, they’re brilliant at accommodating groups. And if you’re in for breakfast, the Bacon Naan Roll is worth every calorie. |
20 Stories
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Address: NO. 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square
Contact details: +44 161 204 3333
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Thu 12PM-12AM
- Fri – Sat 12PM-1AM
- Sun 12PM-12AM
Pricing: ££££
Alright, let’s get fancy. If you’re the type who likes your food served with skyline views and a touch of glamour, 20 Stories is where you need to be.
This rooftop spot is all about elegance – we’re talking sleek interiors, cocktails that look like art, and a terrace that’s the ultimate backdrop for a sunset snap. The menus are a love letter to local produce, with ingredients sourced from within 50 miles of Manchester.
Start off with something like the Beetroot Cured Salmon, a plate so pretty you’ll hesitate to dig in. For mains, the Ribeye Steak is top-notch – tender, perfectly cooked, and served with your choice of classic sides.
Vegetarians, you’re sorted too, with dishes like Caramelised Cauliflower stealing the show.
Oh, and let’s talk about drinks because this place knows how to shake a cocktail.
| Pro tip: Book early and snag a table by the window for the full 360-degree view. And if you’re celebrating something special, this is hands down one of the best spots in Media City to toast the occasion. |
Six by Nico Spring Gardens
Address: 60 Spring Gardens
Contact details: +44 161 832 1815
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Menu
Here’s one for those who like a bit of adventure on their plate. Six by Nico is like no other – a restaurant where the entire six-course tasting menu changes every six weeks. Sounds a bit mad, doesn’t it? But trust us, it’s genius.
Each menu tells a story – past themes include “The Chippie,” “Childhood,” and “The Amalfi Coast.” Basically, you’ll never have the same meal twice. First-timers, prepare to be walked through a proper experience.
Each dish is beautifully plated and packed with intricate flavours that’ll have you nodding like, “Yep, this chef knows what they’re doing.” You might start with a twist on fish and chips, move on to a delicate pasta course, and finish with a dessert that looks like modern art.
And for the price, around £39 for six courses – it’s a steal for this level of creativity.
| Pro tip: Upgrade to the wine pairing, they match each dish perfectly, and it makes the whole experience feel even more indulgent. |
Harry Ramsden’s
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Address: Lowry Outlet Mall, MediaCityUK
Contact details: +44 161 713 3746
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Menu
Right, let’s keep it simple. If you’re craving proper British fish and chips – none of that fancy reinterpretation nonsense – Harry Ramsden’s is your spot. It’s got everything you want: golden, crispy batter, thick-cut chips, and mushy peas on the side.
No faffing, no fuss, just pure comfort food done right; the portions are massive, so show up hungry. You can’t go wrong with their Classic Cod and Chips, but if you’re feeling wild, the Wholetail Scampi or a Fish Butty will hit the spot.
Fancy something lighter? They’ve got grilled options, too – though let’s be honest, you’re probably here for the batter. It’s a casual, no-frills vibe that’s perfect for a quick bite before exploring Media City.
Plus, it’s right next to the Lowry Theatre and outlet shops, so you can grab a meal before or after catching a show or picking up some bargains.
| Pro tip: Order the chip shop curry sauce for dipping, it’s legendary and goes with everything. |
