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10 Must-Visit Casual Dining Restaurants in Manchester for Every Occasion
Let’s be honest, picking a place to eat can feel like a full-time job—especially when you’re trying to strike that sweet spot between “fancy enough to feel special” and “casual enough to keep it chill.”
Luckily for us Mancunians, the city’s packed with restaurants that understand the assignment. Whether you’re recovering from the night before, catching up with your mates, or just too lazy to cook (we’ve all been there), these casual dining spots have got your back.
I still remember wandering into one of these gems after a long day of pretending to be productive—it was like being hugged by comfort food. Picture juicy burgers, creamy pastas, and brunch spreads that make you rethink all your life choices (in a good way).
So, if you’re ready to upgrade your “Where should we eat?” dilemma into an actual plan, this list is your new best mate. No posh vibes, no judgement—just great food, good company, and maybe a cheeky cocktail or two. Let’s dig in, shall we?
Higher Ground
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Address: 10 Blossom St, Ancoats
Contact details: +44 161 837 1847
Operating Hours: Tue – Sat 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Higher Ground is not shouting about itself, but it quietly impresses you with every plate. Think fresh, seasonal, and completely unapologetic about sticking to what’s local—it’s all sourced within 50 miles.
The menu changes so often you’ll feel like you’re trying a new place every time you visit. Now, here’s the drill: the dishes come as small plates, so you’re meant to share.
Imagine perfectly charred leeks with a punchy vinaigrette or tender lamb that practically melts before your fork even touches it. And don’t even think about skipping the sourdough; it’s a little cloud of carb-heaven paired with their whipped butter.
The setting is cosy without feeling cramped, with its Scandinavian-inspired decor—light wood tables, plants that look like they’re thriving (jealous, honestly), and a soft hum of chatter in the background.
Pro tip:
The staff know their wines inside out, and their natural wine selection is a game-changer. Don’t be shy, ask for a recommendation, even if you’ve no idea what you’re after.
Hawksmoor Manchester
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Address: 184-186 Deansgate, Manchester
Contact details: +44 161 836 6980
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Hawksmoor is the steakhouse that makes you realise every other steak you’ve had was just practice. Right on Deansgate, it’s got the kind of vibe that suits any occasion—celebrations, date nights, or just treating yourself because you deserve it.
These beauties are dry-aged to perfection, cooked over charcoal, and seasoned just enough to let the meat do all the talking. But don’t stop there—the sides are just as show-stealing.
The dripping-fried chips are downright addictive, and their mac and cheese? Let’s just say you’ll be debating a second portion. Not into steak? You’re sorted with their fresh seafood dishes, like the roasted scallops that come swimming in garlic butter.
And then there’s the bar. You’ll want to make time for a pre-dinner cocktail, like the legendary Shaky Pete’s Ginger Brew—an icy concoction of gin, ginger beer, and a citrusy zing that’s so refreshing you might order two.
Pro tip:
Their express menu (two courses for £28 or three for £33) is a steal and a great intro to the Hawksmoor experience if you’re not ready to splurge just yet.
Kala
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Address: 55 King Street
Contact details: +44 161 820 3018
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Kala is smack dab in the middle of King Street, making it a convenient pick whether you’re shopping, or just wandering around town. Inside, it’s all about natural light streaming through those floor-to-ceiling windows, bouncing off the modern decor that invites you to linger.
The food is the real draw here, though. The open kitchen is a treat for those of us who love a bit of dinner theatre. Their roasted pork belly is the stuff of legends—crispy on the outside, ridiculously tender inside.
The wild mushroom risotto is equally stunning, with flavours so rich you’ll be tempted to lick the plate (resist, though; you’re better than that). And if bread is your love language, the sourdough will steal your heart. It’s crusty, airy, and served with butter so creamy it’s practically a dessert.
Speaking of desserts, if you walk out of here without trying the sticky toffee pudding, you’ve missed a core memory in the making.
Pro tip:
Kala gets busy, so book ahead. And trust us, order the sticky toffee pudding.
Bill’s Spinningfields Restaurant
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Address: 3 Hardman Square, Spinningfields
Phone: +44 161 834 2756
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 8AM-11PM
Pricing: $$
Pricing: £££
Website
Sitting pretty in Spinningfields, Bill’s is an ideal spot whether you’re grabbing breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Inside, it’s a mix of rustic charm and modern chic—think wooden tables, soft lighting, and a warm vibe that feels like a hug from an old friend.
Breakfast is a big deal here; their full English is a solid choice, but the buttermilk pancakes? Pure happiness on a plate, especially when stacked high with syrup and berries.
Moving on to mains, their fish pie is creamy, hearty, and packed with flavour, while the burgers are juicy enough to make you forget about your diet plans.
Bill’s also shines when it comes to drinks.
Oh, and if you’ve got a sweet tooth, the warm cinnamon doughnuts with chocolate sauce are an absolute must.
Pro tip:
They’ve got a cracking set menu, two courses for £17.95 or three for £20.95, which is perfect for a casual date or a treat-yourself moment.
Gaucho Manchester
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Address: 2A St Mary’s St
Contact details: +44 161 833 4333
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Gaucho is where you go when you want to feel a bit fancy without overdoing it. This Argentinian steakhouse is all about bold flavours and sleek interiors, with black leather seats, cowhide accents, and moody lighting that sets the tone for an unforgettable meal.
The stars of the show here are the steaks, which are all grass-fed and cooked to perfection. The ribeye is an obvious winner, but if you’re feeling adventurous, go for the churrasco cuts marinated with their signature chimichurri sauce.
Non-steak fans? No worries—the ceviche and empanadas are equally drool-worthy. Drinks are just as impressive. Their wine list is a love letter to Argentine vineyards, with a Malbec for every mood.
If you’re more of a cocktail person, the Salted Caramel Espresso Martini is the decadent treat you didn’t know you needed.
Pro tip:
The Gaucho Set Lunch menu is a steal, offering two courses for £24.50 or three for £27.50. It’s a perfect intro if you’re new to the Gaucho experience.
Trof Northern Quarter
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Address: 8 Thomas St
Contact details: +44 161 833 3197
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Thu 9AM-12AM
- Fri – Sat 9AM-1AM
- Sun 9AM-11PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Trof isn’t just a bar—it’s a Northern Quarter institution. This place oozes character, from its quirky vintage furniture to the low-lit, indie vibe that feels like a warm nod to Manchester’s music roots.
Food-wise, it’s hearty and satisfying. The brunch game is strong, with options like shakshuka or the proper Full Trof English (yes, it comes with black pudding). As the day rolls on, you’ve got stacked burgers, mac and cheese, and big plates like their homemade pie of the day.
The portions are generous, so come hungry. Drinks? They’ve got craft beers, cheeky cocktails, and even an impressive range of whiskies for those who fancy something stronger.
Oh, and their playlists are always spot on—it’s like your favourite Spotify mix came to life.
Pro tip:
Check out their weekly deals; Taco Tuesday and Wing Wednesday are legendary and won’t dent your wallet.
The Ivy Spinningfields Manchester
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Address: The Pavilion, Byrom St
Contact details: +44 20 3301 0200
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 8AM-11PM
Pricing: £££
The Ivy Spinningfields is the go-to spot when you’re looking for something that’s both upscale and approachable. With its swanky interiors—think lush greenery, colourful accents, and a bit of glamour at every turn—it’s the kind of place that feels special without being too intimidating.
The menu is massive, covering everything from British classics like shepherd’s pie to international delights like aromatic duck curry. Their weekend brunch is a must-try, featuring dishes like eggs royale or fluffy buttermilk pancakes.
And let’s not forget their desserts—if you don’t order the melting chocolate bombe, you’re doing it wrong. The Ivy also boasts a gorgeous roof garden that’s open year-round, perfect for cocktails and people-watching.
Pro tip:
If you’re dining on the roof terrace, snag a table with a heater, it’s cosy even when Manchester’s weather isn’t cooperating.
Moose Coffee
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Address: 20 York St
Contact details: +44 161 228 7994
Operating Hours:
- Mon – Fri 7:30AM-5PM
- Sat – Sun 8AM-5PM
Pricing: ££
Moose Coffee is the ultimate brunch spot if you’re in the mood for American-sized portions with a side of cosy vibes. It’s tucked away on York Street, and you’ll often find a queue outside, but trust us—it’s worth the wait.
The menu is a breakfast lover’s dream. You’ve got the classics like pancakes (stacked sky-high, of course), but their signature dishes steal the show. The “Moose Mighty” is basically a breakfast buffet on a plate—eggs, sausage, bacon, and more, all in one glorious heap.
And if you’re into sweet stuff, the waffles with peanut butter and maple syrup will have you grinning ear to ear. Inside, it’s all about rustic charm with wooden booths and vintage Moose-themed decor.
Pro tip:
Arrive early to beat the queue, this place gets busy, especially on weekends.
Bundobust
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Address: 19 Oxford St
Contact Details: +44 161 359 6757
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: ££
Bundobust is where Indian street food meets craft beer, and it’s as glorious as it sounds. Hidden just off Piccadilly, it’s the kind of spot you’d miss if you weren’t looking for it—but once you step inside, you’re greeted with a buzzing atmosphere and the irresistible aroma of spices.
The menu is entirely vegetarian, but don’t let that fool you—there’s enough flavour here to convert the most devoted carnivores. The vada pav (spiced potato burger) is a standout, and their okra fries are ridiculously moreish.
Pair it with a mango lassi or one of their ever-changing selection of craft beers for the full experience. The seating is casual, with long communal tables that make it easy to dive into a plate of chaat while chatting with friends or strangers.
Pro tip:
Order the “combo for two” if you’re indecisive, it gives you a bit of everything to share (or not).
Cosy Club
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Address: Corn Exchange, 37 Hanging Ditch
Contact details: +44 161 631 4101
Operating Hours: Mon-Sun 9AM-12AM
Pricing: ££
Website
Menu
Cosy Club feels like stepping into a time capsule where vintage charm meets modern dining. Speaking of menus, it’s comfort food galore, with a little something for everyone.
Brunch is a highlight—think smashed avocado on toast, hearty breakfast burritos, and eggs benedict done right. If you’re there for dinner, their buttermilk fried chicken and risotto are surefire crowd-pleasers.
For plant-based dinners, the vegan burger and Thai green vegetable curry prove that Cosy Club doesn’t skimp on flavour. Drinks are a big deal here, too. Their cocktails are playful (try the Cherry Bakewell Martini) and their mocktails are just as fun.
Add a bustling, cheerful atmosphere, and you’ve got the perfect spot for a laid-back meal or a casual catch-up.
Pro tip:
Visit during their “Teatime Tipple” (Mon-Fri, 4PM-8PM) for discounted drinks and nibbles—it’s an absolute steal for a post-work treat.
