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The 5 Best Tapas in Manchester

The 5 Best Tapas in Manchester

Whether you’re on a quest for authentic patatas bravas or a curious gastronome seeking a fusion of flavours, you’ll find that Manchester is a mecca for tapas lovers. 

From traditional tapas bars tucked away in cosy corners to trendy hotspots with a modern twist, there’s something for you here!

So, gather your amigos, loosen your belts, and get ready to embark on a delectable adventure. We’ve listed and reviewed the best tapas in Manchester so you’ll know where to head next!

How we picked

Food – We considered the quality of their food by talking with their regulars. Along with this, we also checked the variety of their menu.
Accessibility – We also checked their operating hours and location since this affects how easy it would be for customers to enjoy their meals.
Rates – We reviewed their rates and assessed if they fare well in the cost-to-quality ratio.
Customer Service – We also factored in the attitude of the staff members since this affects the dining experience.

1. El Gato Negro Tapas

El Gato Negro Tapas' Homepage

Services: Dine-in

Website: https://www.elgatonegrotapas.com/

Address: 52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 161 694 8585

Operating Hours: Daily: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM

Google Reviews Score 4.6/5
Facebook Reviews Score 4.5/5
Total Reviews5/5
Score Consistency 4/5
Food 5/5
→Quality5/5
→Variety5/5
Accessibility5/5
→Operating Hours5/5
→Location5/5
Rates(A higher rating means better value)4/5
Customer Service5/5

Pros

  • Has consistent quality of food
  • Good location
  • Great for walk-ins
  • Operational everyday

Cons

  • A tad overpriced

If you’re searching for an unforgettable tapas experience in Manchester, look no further than El Gato Negro Tapas. 

This restaurant, helmed by talented Chef Patron and Creative Director Simon Shaw, has become a must-visit destination since its bold move to a converted townhouse on King Street in 2016.

We believe that quality is king, and El Gato Negro certainly delivers. Many regulars we spoke with raved about the exceptional flavours and techniques showcased on the dishes they ordered!

From traditional Spanish favourites to innovative creations, the variety on offer is impressive. In our experience, every bite is a celebration of both Spanish and locally-sourced ingredients, expertly combined to create sensational dishes.

Operating hours and location matter, and we’re glad El Gato Negro nails it. Located in the heart of the city centre, it’s perfectly situated for a night of tapas indulgence.

Aside from this, we also give them plus points for being open everyday. And no need to worry about booking a table here—just hop in and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere!

We also believe that good food shouldn’t break the bank. El Gato Negro offers a cost-to-quality ratio that won’t leave you empty-pocketed.

You can savour the brilliance of their culinary creations starting as £6 – which is lower compared to other tapas restaurants in the city.

Now, let’s address a differing opinion. From our surveys, some people mentioned they think that the food was overpriced, so it’s best to go elsewhere.

While we respect diverse opinions, we think El Gato Negro deserves a chance. After all, we’re happy about our experience here—plus they received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers and critics.

On a more positive note, at El Gato Negro, the staff members are known for their friendly and attentive attitude. You can expect an enhanced dining experience where you feel welcome and taken care of throughout your visit. 

2. Tapas La Casa Bar & Restaurant

Tapas La Casa Bar & Restaurant's Homepage

Services: Dine-in

Website: https://tapaslacasa.co.uk/

Address: 15 Mason St, Manchester M4 5FT, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 161 509 4979

Operating Hours: Monday to Friday: 5:00 PM–9:00 PM

Google Reviews Score 5/5
Facebook Reviews Score 5/5
Total Reviews4/5
Score Consistency 4/5
Food 5/5
→Quality5/5
→Variety5/5
Accessibility5/5
→Operating Hours5/5
→Location5/5
Rates(A higher rating means better value)3/5
Customer Service5/5

Pros

  • Has consistent quality of food
  • Has good location
  • Has commendable customer service

Cons

  • More expensive compared to other restaurants
  • Closed on weekends

Let’s start with the star of the show—the food! We think it’s safe to say that Tapas La Casa knows how to impress. 

We had the pleasure of talking with their regulars who couldn’t stop raving about the quality and flavours of their dishes.

From the delightful Garlic and Chilli King Prawns cooked with olive oil, white wine, and parsley to a variety of mouthwatering tapas options, every bite is a celebration of authentic Spanish cuisine. 

In terms of location, we also give this restaurant a thumbs up. Situated within the AC Hotel Manchester City Centre, Tapas La Casa offers a central and vibrant setting.

Unfortunately, they are not operational during the weekends. So it would be best to check other restaurants in case you are craving for tapas on weekdays.

Of course, dining out should be a treat for your taste buds and your wallet. Tapas La Casa may be slightly more expensive compared to other restaurants, starting at £10.

However, we still believe the cost-to-quality ratio is well worth it. Especially if you factor the big serving their regulars rave about.

After all, don’t you think that exceptional flavours and attention to detail in each dish make it a worthy investment?

We also reviewed their customer service. We know that the attitude of staff members can greatly impact your dining experience, and at Tapas La Casa, we were met with warmth and hospitality. 

Here, one can expect friendly and hospitable staff members who will make sure that you enjoy your meal.

3. La Viña

La Viña's Homepage

Services: Dine-in, Take-out

Website: https://lavina.co.uk/venue/manchester-deansgate/

Address: 105/107 Deansgate, Manchester M3 2BQ, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 161 835 3144

Operating Hours:

  • Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
  • Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
Google Reviews Score 4.2/5
Facebook Reviews Score 4.4/5
Total Reviews4.8/5
Score Consistency 4/5
Food 5/5
→Quality5/5
→Variety5/5
Accessibility4.5/5
→Operating Hours4/5
→Location5/5
Rates(A higher rating means better value)5/5
Customer Service5/5

Pros

  • Has consistent quality of food
  • Has good location
  • Offers affordable dishes

Cons

  • Has varying operating hours per day

From what we’ve seen, La Viña doesn’t disappoint when it comes to the quality of their food. From classic favourites to innovative creations, their menu boasts an impressive variety that will make any food lover’s heart skip a beat.

We like that it’s located just a stone’s throw away from the city centre, theatres, and bars. This gem is a perfect pitstop for those looking to fuel up before hitting the town or enjoy a leisurely drink in the cosy bar.

Plus, we like their commitment to disabled access. This ensures everyone can savour the Spanish delights without any hindrance.

However, their operating hours vary per day — which can be confusing. With this, we suggest checking if they’re open before heading to the restaurant.

Now, let’s talk about rates. We dug deep into the cost-to-quality ratio, and La Viña emerged victorious.

With prices that won’t break the bank, starting as low as £3.75, you can indulge in their delectable offerings without worrying about the bill. It’s a win-win for your taste buds and your budget!

Furthermore, La Viña knows how to deliver in terms of customer service. The staff’s warm and welcoming attitude makes diners feel at home while enjoying the meal.

4. Evuna NQ

Evuna NQ's Homepage

Services: Dine-in, Curbside pickup, No-contact delivery

Website: http://www.evuna.com/

Address: 79 Thomas St, Manchester M4 1LQ, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 161 833 1130

Operating Hours:

  • Sunday: 12:30 PM–9:00 PM
  • Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM–11:00 PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 PM–11:30 PM
Google Reviews Score 4.6/5
Facebook Reviews Score 4.6/5
Total Reviews4.5/5
Score Consistency 4/5
Food 5/5
→Quality5/5
→Variety5/5
Accessibility4.5/5
→Operating Hours4/5
→Location5/5
Rates(A higher rating means better value)5/5
Customer Service4/5

Pros

  • Has a consistent quality of food
  • Has an accessible location
  • Has affordable dishes

Cons

  • Confusing operating hours
  • Instances of slow service and dismissive staff members

We sat down with the regulars at Evuna NQ to get the inside scoop. They sang praises of the quality of the food, transporting their taste buds to the vibrant regions of Spain.

One of the things we like the most is the variety of their menu. Here, you will find a treasure trove of regional delights, showcasing the diverse flavours of Spain. 

Checking their operating hours and location, we found that the restaurant is also strategically placed in the bustling Northern Quarter.

Unfortunately, they’re operating hours can be confusing since it varies per day. With this in mind, we suggest that you don’t forget to check if they’re open before heading to the restaurant.

We also checked their prices and we were pleasantly surprised. It’s a culinary journey that won’t burn a hole in your wallet since you can enjoy something for as low as £3.

Sadly, we received mixed reviews when it comes to customer service. Some diners expressed disappointment over slow food service and dismissive staff members.

On a more positive note, there are still those who appreciated the team. One even mentioned that the staff members took careful note of their food preferences and delivered well. 

With this in mind, we suggest trying the restaurant and deciding for yourself. 

5. La Bandera

La Bandera's Homepage

Services: Dine-in, Take-out, Delivery

Website: https://labandera.co.uk/

Address: 2 Ridgefield, Manchester M2 6EQ, United Kingdom

Contact Details: +44 161 833 9019

Operating Hours:

  • Sunday to Thursday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
  • Friday to Saturday: 11:00 AM–11:00 PM
Google Reviews Score 4.4/5
Facebook Reviews Score 4.5/5
Total Reviews4.3/5
Score Consistency 4/5
Food 4.5/5
→Quality4/5
→Variety5/5
Accessibility5/5
→Operating Hours5/5
→Location5/5
Rates(A higher rating means better value)5/5
Customer Service5/5

Pros

  • Has good food presentation
  • Has commendable staff members
  • Has affordable bottomless brunch offering

Cons

  • Has instances of food quality inconsistencies

Get ready to unleash your taste buds and indulge in a culinary adventure at La Bandera. We sat down with La Bandera’s regulars and we received a unanimous verdict: it’s a must-try.

Here, they are not only known for their delicious tapas, but also their extensive beverage  menu. This is why we weren’t surprised to learn that they are popular for those who are looking for alternatives to bars and clubs – which can get a little crowded.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show—the staff. We like that they’re not only super welcoming and friendly but also impressively well informed about the background and origins of the food.

As shared by some regulars, it’s like having a personal tour guide while you savour every mouthwatering bite of their dishes. And the pricing? More than fair, making La Bandera a true gem for taste buds and wallet. 

We like that they have a bottomless brunch that starts for as low as £32 — which is great!

Now, we must address the minor blip in our otherwise splendid experience. Sadly, some of our team members complained that their food arrived overcooked, dry, and cold. 

However, we give the staff plus points for quickly rectifying the situation, so kudos to them! Overall, we had a pretty great time at La Bandera!

FAQs about Tapas in Manchester

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