Categories > Dining
The 5 Best Vietnamese Restaurants in Manchester
If there’s one thing we Mancunians know, it’s that our city has a serious passion for food. Now, our team might be biassed, but there’s something about how Vietnamese flavours dance on your palate that’s truly magical.
You see, we’ve been on a mission to find the most mouthwatering pho, the crispiest spring rolls, and the tastiest banh mi!
And to give you our insider knowledge, we’ve shared countless gatherings, date nights, and even quiet solo meals at these Vietnamese hotspots, from cosy ones to bustling eateries that buzz with energy. Read on to learn which spots made our list!
1. Pho Cue
Services: Dine in, Take out, Delivery
Website: https://phocue.co.uk/
Address: 52a Faulkner St, Manchester M1 4FH, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 237 5664
Operating Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.6/5 |
Facebook Reviews Score | 4.8/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.6/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Accessibility | 4.5/5 |
Location | 5/5 |
Operating Hours | 4/5 |
Menu | 5/5 |
Prices(A higher rating means more affordable cost) | 5/5 |
Customer Service | 4/5 |
Pros
- Serves authentic Vietnamese dishes
- Has an accessible location
- Has a wide range of affordable food selection
Cons
- Closed on Tuesdays
- Has reports of long waiting time for food to be served
We discovered that Pho Cue serves authentic Vietnamese dishes that have been lovingly passed down through the Cue family for years. For us, this makes a dining experience with them feel extra special.
Furthermore, we’re also entertained by their name since “pho” is pronounced as “fa”. And if you pronounce their name in Vietnamese, it will sound like a popular swear word—catchy, right?
On top of this, their prime location within the city centre earns it plus points. This makes them an ideal choice for those who prefer not to travel too far for their meal.
However, we believe that it’s essential to note that they are closed on Tuesdays — setting them apart from other Vietnamese restaurants that are operational every day.
On a more positive note, their menu is a delight for food enthusiasts. We are happy to share that they offer a diverse selection that includes rolls, buns, noodles, and more.
According to their regulars, the standout dish here is the Vietnamese tacos known as banh xeo.
They also score well in affordability. In fact, we’re delighted that their dishes start at just £5.
Unfortunately, this establishment faces a notable drawback in its customer service department. Reports from diners indicate slow service with waiting times stretching up to 30 minutes for food to be served.
With this, we suggest that you try this restaurant only if you have a lot of time to spare.
2. Viet Shack Restaurant
Services: Dine in, Take out, Delivery
Website: https://www.vietshackrestaurant.co.uk/
Address: 65 Great Ancoats St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 5AB, United Kingdom
Operating Hours: Sunday: 12:00 PM–8:30 PM
Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM–2:30 PM | 5:00 PM–9:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM–9:45 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.5/5 |
Facebook Reviews Score | 4.4/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.8/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Accessibility | 4.5/5 |
Location | 4/5 |
Operating Hours | 5/5 |
Menu | 5/5 |
Prices(A higher rating means more affordable cost) | 4/5 |
Customer Service | 5/5 |
Pros
- Prepares all dishes onsite
- Operational everyday with long operating hours
- Offers vegetarian menu
Cons
- A bit far from city centre
- Has varied price range for their dishes
We like that Viet Shack Restaurant offers fresh and authentic Vietnamese street food that is prepared in front of the customers.
We appreciate that they’re open every day and have long operating hours – as late as 9:45 PM. However, it’s a bit distant from the city centre which can deter diners who are just looking for a quick and effortless meal.
Despite this, the establishment wins hearts with its friendly staff. We also learned that this is great for those who will try Vietnamese food for the first time, thanks to their patience in explaining the menu and suggesting good food pairings.
According to our research, customers also rave about the quick serving time even during peak hours — earning major plus points from us.
Additionally, they also impress with its diverse menu. Here, we learned that they have an array of delectable dishes from dumplings to tacos and the beloved pho.
Their inclusivity also shines through with a thoughtfully curated vegetarian menu — catering to various dietary preferences.
We recommend carefully checking the prices before ordering to avoid any unwanted surprises when your bill arrives. This is because while most of their dishes are affordable (starting as low as £7), it’s worth noting that some selections can escalate to £17.
3. I Am Pho
Services: Dine in, Take out
Website: http://iampho.uk/
Address: 44 George St, Manchester M1 4HF, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 236 1230
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.4/5 |
Facebook Reviews Score | 4.4/5 |
Total Reviews | 5/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Accessibility | 4.5/5 |
Location | 5/5 |
Operating Hours | 4/5 |
Menu | 5/5 |
Prices(A higher rating means more affordable cost) | 5/5 |
Customer Service | 4/5 |
Pros
- Offers a cosy ambiance
- Has affordable dishes
- Has a wide variety of dishes and drinks
Cons
- Has reports of inconsistent customer service
- Closed on Mondays
I Am Pho offers a delightful escape since it’s a hidden gem where diners can relish Vietnamese cuisine in a cosy atmosphere and charming, country-inspired establishment.
They also stood out to us because of their affordability. According to their regulars, a satisfying meal here typically ranges from only £10 to £20 – which includes two dishes and a drink.
Additionally, the generous portions make it a budget-friendly choice — appealing even more to those who prefer value for money.
Unfortunately, we noted that opinions on their service vary. While some patrons commend the team, there have been consistent complaints about inattentive staff.
According to our research, several diners shared their frustration since multiple follow-ups were needed to receive their orders.
On the other hand, they gain plus points in our books for their convenient location that’s easily accessible from the city centre.
However, it’s important to note that they are closed on Mondays which sets them apart from competitors who offer Vietnamese dishes throughout the week.
We like that they offer a diverse range of delicious dishes, from starters to mains and desserts. The regulars that we’ve spoken to also mentioned that they love the prawn rolls here.
On top of this, we also appreciate that this is complemented by an impressive selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
4. Pho
Services: Dine in, Take out
Website: https://www.phocafe.co.uk/
Address: The Corn Exchange, 37 Hanging Ditch, Manchester M4 3TR, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 464 9779
Operating Hours: Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:00 PM
Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM–10:00 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.2/5 |
Facebook Reviews Score | 4/5 |
Total Reviews | 4.9/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Accessibility | 4.5/5 |
Location | 4/5 |
Operating Hours | 5/5 |
Menu | 5/5 |
Prices(A higher rating means more affordable cost) | 4/5 |
Customer Service | 5/5 |
Pros
- Offers a serene ambiance
- Has good customer service
- Has long operating hours
Cons
- A bit far from the city centre
- More expensive compared to other Vietnamese restaurants
Pho is a modern dining haven that offers a serene ambience. From what we’ve seen, they seem perfect for unhurried and relaxed dining experiences.
Additionally, we think that this a good place to be for a cosy date night or an important business meeting as its quiet atmosphere will allow customers to communicate with ease.
The staff members are not only attentive but also incredibly helpful — enhancing the overall dining atmosphere. According to our surveys, this makes the guests feel valued and comfortable.
They’re slightly distant from the city centre. However, we appreciate that there are many reliable public transportation options that lead to the establishment.
Additionally, their extended operating hours that stretch as late as 10:00 pm is also a definite plus.
When it comes to their menu, we like how they cater to diverse tastes. Customers can choose from a delightful array of salads, pho, broken rice, and desserts.
However, what caught our attention is their exceptional vegan and gluten-free menu,reflecting their inclusivity to diverse dietary preferences–a definite plus for us!
While slightly pricier compared to other options, we firmly believe that the overall dining experience here justifies its cost.
After all, the restaurant offers not just delicious cuisine, but also a sophisticated interior, one of the longest operating hours in the area, and an extensive menu — making it worth a try if you have extra money to splurge.
5. Vnam
Services: Dine in, Take out, Delivery
Website: https://www.vnam.co.uk/
Address: 20-26 Edge St, Manchester M4 1HN, United Kingdom
Contact Details: +44 161 222 3940
Operating Hours: Sunday: 12:00 PM–9:30 PM
Monday to Friday: 12:00 PM–3:00 PM | 5:00 PM–9:30 PM
Saturday: 12:00 PM–10:30 PM
Google Reviews Score | 4.1/5 |
Facebook Reviews Score | 4.5/5 |
Total Reviews | 4/5 |
Score Consistency | 4/5 |
Accessibility | 4/5 |
Location | 4/5 |
Operating Hours | 4/5 |
Menu | 5/5 |
Prices(A higher rating means more affordable cost) | 5/5 |
Customer Service | 5/5 |
Pros
- Uses high-quality ingredients
- Has a reliable customer service
- Offers a wide variety of dishes
Cons
- A bit far from city centre
- Closes midday on weekdays
We commend Vnam for using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. They also strike a balance between affordability and premium offerings!
With skewers starting at £5.99, it appeals to budget-conscious diners. However, the availability of higher-end options like the BBQ lamb chops at £13.99 also provides a luxurious choice for those seeking a more indulgent meal.
According to our surveys, the restaurant shines in terms of customer service. Here, they boast friendly and attentive staff members.
Regulars also noted that their ability to accommodate special requests adds a personalised touch that enhances the overall dining experience.
Unfortunately, Vnam is situated 20 minutes away from the city centre. For us, this poses a drawback for diners seeking immediate dining options.
We were also quite disappointed to find that they close between 3:00 pm and 5:00 pm on weekdays, presenting a challenge for individuals desiring a late lunch during these days.
On a positive note, we love that their menu offers a delightful variety of authentic dishes that range from buns to noodles. The star attraction undoubtedly is their pho — available with beef, chicken, or a combination of both.
Despite the travel time needed to visit this restaurant, we think that their fresh ingredients, attentive staff members, and delicious dishes makes it worth it.