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Hungry at Trafford Centre? These 11 Food Eateries Are Worth Every Bite!
Planning a day out at Trafford Centre? We all know shopping can work up quite an appetite. Whether you’re on a mission to find the perfect outfit, wrangling kids through Legoland, or just window shopping, at some point you’ll need to refuel.
But don’t settle for a sad sandwich or a lacklustre latte. Trafford Centre is a foodie paradise, packed with dining spots that are as exciting as the shops themselves.
Read on to find out where to indulge your taste buds and make your shopping trip even more memorable.
Tampopo Trafford Centre
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 749 2882
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: ££
One of the better eating options in the sprawling domed food court hell that is The Orient is Tampopo Trafford Centre. Situated on the upper level, it gives you a prime viewing spot over the crowds below, or you can escape inside for some relative peace and quiet.
But that’s not why you came, anyway. Tampopo’s menu of fast, fresh East Asian food is well suited for refuelling mid-shop or post-cinema. Dishes span Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Korea, and Japan, and include noodles, stir fries, curries and salads.
There’s also street food-style small plates: gyoza, Korean chicken wings, spring rolls, and the like. Recommended dishes include the laksa, the katsu curry, the spicy Thai salad, and any number of those street-food starters.
For drinks, they have a decent selection of wines, plus East Asian beers, and some interesting softs and hot drinks, such as flowering tea and Vietnamese coffee. Desserts include exotically-flavoured ice creams, and churros with caramel sauce.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their signature Vietnamese Pho – it’s a bowl of hearty goodness that’s perfect for a satisfying meal.
wagamama Manchester Trafford Centre
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 749 0800
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-11PM
Pricing: ££
If you’re a fan of bold Asian flavours and a bustling dining atmosphere, wagamama at Trafford Centre is the place for you. Split over two floors, the restaurant offers the familiar setup of long communal tables, an open kitchen, and even some cosy booths for a more intimate experience.
The menu is packed with dishes that burst with flavour from start to finish. Take the Beef Short Rib Ramen, for instance. It’s a spectacle to watch being prepared, with beef slow-cooked for hours until it falls off the bone.
But it’s not just about the ramen. Wagamama offers a variety of dishes from teppanyaki to curry, all prepared fresh. And to wash it all down, they have a selection of beers, wines, and fresh juices.
Pro tip:
Try their chilli squid – it’s crispy, spicy, and utterly delicious.
Las Iguanas – Manchester – Trafford Centre
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 747 6222
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Las Iguanas brings the vibrant flavours of Latin America right to the heart of Trafford Centre. Start your meal with some fiery fajitas or classic Brazilian dishes served up in traditional pots.
The fresh ingredients and unique flavour blends will transport you straight to the streets of South America. Their bustling bar is always a hit, serving up Happy Hour cocktails all day, every day, with the star being their Magnifica Cachaça caipirinhas.
And if you’ve got little ones in tow, the Iggy & Friends menu created by Aardman Animations will keep them happy with fun and tasty dishes.
Pro tip:
Their happy hour offers 2-for-1 cocktails – perfect for a pre-dinner treat or a post-shopping wind-down.
Slim Chickens
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 747 6222
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
Slim Chickens is quickly becoming a favourite at the Trafford Centre. Famous for their chicken tenders, they serve up premium, cooked-to-order chicken with a side of Blues music, making for a relaxed and casual dining experience.
As you walk in, you’re greeted by a welcoming, laid-back vibe; the seating ranges from family-friendly tables to cosy booths, perfect for any group size. The chicken is always fresh and never frozen, marinated in buttermilk and cooked to crispy perfection.
With a selection of 15 signature dipping sauces, from Blue Cheese to Fiery Inferno (careful, it’s seriously hot!), your taste buds are in for a treat. But it’s not just about the tenders. Their menu includes a variety of chicken sandwiches, wings, salads, and wraps.
The sides are just as tempting, with options like crispy pickles and creamy mac’n’cheese. And don’t even get me started on their hand-spun shakes – they’re the perfect way to round off your meal.
Pro tip:
Make sure to try their Sriracha Garlic dipping sauce – it’s got a kick that’ll keep you coming back for more.
Haute Dolci Trafford
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Address: The Great Hall, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 707 4545
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-10PM
Pricing: £££
Haute Dolci Trafford is where you go when you’re craving a bit of luxury and a whole lot of sweet treats. The place is an Instagrammer’s dream with its stunning Art-Deco style bar area, gold-plated table lighting, and plush cream and blue quilted seats.
The menu is a wonderland of sweet delights and culinary masterpieces. From indulgent waffles and crepes to artisan gelato and signature cakes, every dish is crafted with creativity and a touch of magic.
Their chocolate fondue is particularly decadent – perfect for sharing, or not. But it’s not all about sweets there. Haute Dolci also offers gourmet coffees, teas, and mocktails, making it a great spot to relax and unwind.
Pro tip:
Order the ‘Dolci Exclusive’ for a sampling of their best desserts – it’s a true feast for the senses.
San Giovanni
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 667 1545
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: £££
San Giovanni brings the charm of an authentic Italian restaurant right into the heart of the Trafford Centre. What sets this place apart is its commitment to quality and authenticity, making every visit a delightful culinary journey.
Their menu is a celebration of Italian cuisine, offering both traditional and contemporary dishes. You’ll find everything from fresh seafood and tender meats to wood-fired pizzas and creamy pastas.
The lakeside views add a touch of serenity, making it an ideal spot for a romantic dinner or a family gathering. Their wine selection is extensive, with carefully chosen bottles that perfectly complement the flavours of their dishes.
Pro tip:
Book a table on the terrace for a lovely al fresco dining experience – it’s especially nice in the evening with the twinkling lights.
Archies – Trafford Palazzo
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Address: Trafford Palazzo, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 667 1545
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-11PM
Pricing: ££
Archies at Trafford Palazzo is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a Manchester institution. This takeaway-diner chain has become a legend in the North West, known for its smashed star burgers, supremely creative shakes, waffles, and chicken meals.
Their menu is a feast of American diner classics with a twist. The burgers are juicy and loaded with all the fixings, perfect for satisfying your cravings.
And the shakes? They’re a masterpiece, piled high with all sorts of toppings. You can’t visit Archies without trying one of their celebrity milkshakes – where else are you going to see Rita Ora and the cast of Corrie on the same poster?
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their celebrity milkshakes – they’re as delicious as they are Instagrammable!
Tim Hortons
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Address: 4 Traders Ave, Trafford Park
Contact details: +44 161 747 6222
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 6AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
Tim Hortons brings a touch of Canadian charm to the Trafford Centre. Famous for its coffee and donuts, this spot is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a sweet treat.
Their menu features best-selling items like Timbits (those delightful bite-sized donut holes), Iced Capps, and freshly baked donuts. But that’s not all – they also offer beef burgers, hot dogs, and their signature Tims Crispy Chicken Sandwich.
The variety means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a hearty meal or a light snack. Tim Hortons is also mindful of dietary needs, offering options for those observing halal or vegetarian diets.
Pro tip:
Grab a box of Timbits for a snack on the go – they’re dangerously addictive.
Nando’s Manchester – Trafford Centre
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 667 1545
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
Nando’s at Trafford Centre is the go-to spot for those craving the iconic peri-peri chicken. This place is all about delivering bold, fiery flavours with a side of warm, friendly service.
The secret to Nando’s deliciousness lies in the African Bird’s Eye Chilli, discovered by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century. This fiery little chilli is combined with special herbs and spices to create the unique peri-peri sauce that Nando’s is famous for.
The chicken is flame-grilled to perfection and basted in this tangy, spicy sauce, giving your taste buds a workout. But it’s not just about the chicken. Nando’s also offers a range of sides, from peri-peri chips to spicy rice, and even vegetarian options like the halloumi sticks.
Pro tip:
Try the extra hot peri-peri sauce if you’re brave enough – it’s a flavour explosion you won’t forget!
Barburrito Trafford Centre (Upstairs)
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Address: The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 747 6222
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
After a fun-filled visit to the Legoland Discovery Centre, Barburrito Trafford Centre is the perfect spot to refuel with some vibrant Mexican flavours. Nestled upstairs in The Orient, this place is a haven for burrito lovers and anyone craving a bit of spice.
The UK’s first burrito bar, Barburrito has been perfecting the art of the burrito for over 13 years. Their menu is a fiesta of flavours, with options like nacho chips, mushrooms, and coleslaw that are sure to impress.
The churros are a must-try – crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and absolutely delightful. For drinks, they offer everything from refreshing lemonade to delicious tea, and if you’re in the mood for something stronger, their beer selection won’t disappoint.
Pro tip:
Try their churros with a dip – it’s the perfect sweet treat after a spicy meal.
HOP Vietnamese
Address: Kiosk Unit, The Orient, Trafford Centre
Contact details: +44 161 707 4545
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 11AM-10PM
Pricing: ££
The interior at HOP Vietnamese is sleek and modern, with a relaxed vibe that’s perfect for enjoying their aromatic, flavour-packed dishes. If you’re in the mood for something comforting and delicious, HOP is the place to be.
Their beef brisket Pho is a standout. This bowl of soul food comes with a rich, aromatic broth, slow-cooked beef brisket, and perfectly slippery rice noodles. Add a bit of the chilli oil for an extra kick, and you’ve got a dish that’s both warming and satisfying.
The Chargrilled Pork Banh Mi is another highlight. The crispy baguette complements the honey-glazed pork, sriracha mayo, and chillies perfectly, making for a sandwich that’s bursting with flavour.
If you’re after something more substantial, their rice boxes are a great choice. The pork coconut curry HOP box is a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, with creamy coconut, crunchy Viet salad, and crispy shallots.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss their pork ribs and Viet fried chicken dippers – they’re the perfect snacks to share.
