The best cocktail bars in Manchester

Five of the city’s finest bars have shaken, stirred, and served their way onto the prestigious Top 50 Cocktail Bars list, proving that when it comes to world-class drinks, Manchester has a seat at the top table.

This isn’t just about great cocktails; it’s about passion, innovation, and a thriving bar culture in the city that continues to push boundaries. From hidden speakeasies to sleek, modern mixology masterclasses, Manchester’s bar scene is delivering unforgettable experiences.

The annual ranking, compiled by industry experts, influencers, and drinks writers, celebrates the very best cocktail bars across the country, with Manchester proving itself as a true powerhouse in mixology.

Manchester’s best cocktail bars according to the Top 50 Cocktail Bars list

Leading the charge is Schofield’s Bar, which landed in an impressive 3rd place.

Founded by renowned bartending brothers Joe and Daniel Schofield, this establishment has built a stellar reputation for its expertly crafted drinks, impeccable service, and timeless elegance.

Also making the list is Speak in Code, coming in at 11th place. This hidden gem, nestled between Jackson Row and Lloyd Street, is famed for its innovative approach to mixology and a menu that blends artistry with sustainability.

In 22nd place, Blinker has been recognised for its focus on seasonal ingredients and its warm, welcoming atmosphere. This bar has quickly become a must-visit destination for cocktail lovers in the city.

A relative newcomer, Stray, has made an impressive debut at 25th place. Opened in late 2023 by Ben Reilly and Fran Cruse, Stray has already earned a dedicated following thanks to its creative drinks and relaxed, intimate setting.

Finally, Red Light rounds out Manchester’s representation in the Top 50, securing 40th place. This speakeasy-inspired bar, known for its inclusive and welcoming ethos, has become a staple of the city’s LGBTQ+ nightlife while delivering top-tier cocktails.

You can see the full list of the UK’s Top 50 Cocktail bars by clicking here

Manchester’s best cocktail bars

Manchester’s cocktail scene is bursting with creativity, style, and world-class mixology. While only five of our bars made it into the UK’s top 50, the city is packed with incredible spots serving expertly crafted drinks in stunning settings.

Whether you’re after a sleek rooftop experience, a hidden speakeasy, or a cosy neighbourhood gem, we’ve rounded up the must-visit cocktail bars that make Manchester a dream destination for cocktail lovers. Here’s where to sip, savour, and soak up the city’s unbeatable nightlife.

Three Little Words | World-class cocktails under the arches

Nestled in the historic Grade-II* listed railway arches, Three Little Words offers an extraordinary drinking experience. The cocktail menu is inspired by the artistry of paintings and sculptures, offering a sophisticated mix of flavours made with locally distilled spirits. Whether you’re looking for something classic or innovative, this bar has it all.

Address: 10-15 Watson Street, Manchester, M3 4LP

Tattu | Asian-inspired cocktails with flair

In the heart of Spinningfields, Tattu stands out with a cocktail menu that blends culinary inspiration with creativity. Each drink tells a story, often inspired by Asian ingredients like sake, cherry blossom, and lemongrass. The presentation of the cocktails is equally outlandish, adding an element of surprise and visual delight to your experience. Whether you’re sipping on a fragrant, floral cocktail or a daring spirit-forward creation, Tattu’s cocktails feel as much like art as they do a drink. With a luxurious atmosphere and an upscale crowd, it’s a must-visit for those seeking glamour and creativity.

Address: 3 Hardman Square, Gartside St, Manchester, M3 3EB

Lucky Cat | A sleek and stylish tribute to Asia’s golden age of drinking

Inspired by Tokyo’s 1930s Kissa Clubs and the hidden drinking dens of Shanghai, Lucky Cat delivers a cocktail experience that’s both elegant and adventurous. The menu balances delicate, refined flavors with bold, punchy creations—whether you opt for the crisp and herbaceous Shiso Smash or the timeless, powerful Singapore Sling.

For whisky lovers, the Barrel Aged Old Fashioned is a must-try, featuring Lucky Cat’s own house blend for a uniquely smooth and complex profile. Feeling lucky? Take a roll of the dice with the Lucky Negroni, where 216 possible combinations of gin, vermouth, and bitters keep things thrilling with every sip.

With its moody ambiance and expertly crafted drinks, Lucky Cat is a cocktail lover’s dream—perfect for those looking to sip in style.

Address: 100 King St, Manchester M2 4WU

The Fitzgerald | A hidden gem with vintage charm

Step back in time and into the atmospheric world of The Fitzgerald. With its Prohibition-era vibes, vintage décor, and moody ambiance, this Northern Quarter speakeasy is perfect for anyone seeking a secret watering hole. The Fitzgerald is also home to fantastic live music and burlesque shows on weekends, ensuring an unforgettable experience with every visit.

Address: 11 Stevenson Square, Northern Quarter, Manchester, M1 1DB

Kōdo | A secret worth keeping

Tucked away in one of Manchester’s lesser-known alleys, Kōdo is an all round experience. There’s no sign above the door, no social media trail leading the way. Entry is by code only, changing weekly, ensuring that only those truly in the know make it through.

Inside, the atmosphere is intoxicating. Red neon light casts a warm glow over graffiti-clad walls featuring the bold, anime-inspired work of Hy One and Tetsuo. The Blade Runner-meets-Tokyo-Izakaya aesthetic is effortlessly cool, while the low, pulsing beats create a soundtrack that’s intimate yet electric.

Kōdo is for cocktail connoisseurs. There are no gimmicks, no over-the-top garnishes—just beautifully crafted drinks where precision and balance take center stage. Think yuzu-infused highballs, umeshu twists, and sake-laced creations that quietly impress without the need for spectacle. For those tired of extravagant, Instagram-first cocktails, Kōdo is a breath of fresh air. It’s a place where conversation flows easily, the drinks do the talking, and the thrill of the hunt makes every sip taste even better.

Can you find Kōdo? That’s for you to discover. Just don’t expect an invite twice.

Address? We can’t tell you!

Project Halcyon | Spirit tastings and cocktail masterclasses

Located in a former illicit warehouse, Project Halcyon Distillery combines the excitement of a seasonal cocktail menu with craft spirits and immersive masterclasses. The unique setting and expert mixologists make it a must-visit for anyone serious about their cocktails. Plus, you can try your hand at creating your own spirits during one of their engaging masterclasses.

Address: Unit 2 Bonded Warehouse, St. Johns, Manchester, M3 4AP

The Liquor Store | pure rock and roll

A Mancunian Oasis and pure rock and roll, The Liquor Store is a place offering unbelievable cocktails – arguably some of the best in the city. Full of flamboyance, The Liquor Store has a great soundtrack and lots of awesome memorabilia on the walls. With an amazing mixology team and a menu that always surprises, this bar also boasts private booths perfect for group parties too. The Liquor Store’s intimate vibe and creative cocktails make it one of Manchester’s top spots for a fun night out.

Address: Maybrook House, 40 Blackfriars St, Manchester, M3 2EG

10 Tib Lane | A cosy, mood-lit hideaway

This stylish spot, set in a former townhouse just off Cross Street, offers an elegant yet laid-back ambiance. With a carefully crafted cocktail menu and a legendary happy hour pairing discounted cocktails with oysters, 10 Tib Lane is perfect for both casual and special occasions. The mixologists behind this bar have a talent for creating imaginative drinks with a touch of class.

Address: 10 Tib Lane, Manchester, M2 4JB

The Jane Eyre | Refined, seasonal cocktails in a minimalist setting

The Jane Eyre’s locations in Ancoats and Chorlton are known for their restrained yet perfectly executed cocktail menus. They take a stripped-back approach, focusing on clean, bold flavours rather than unnecessary garnishes or theatrical presentations. The seasonal menu changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try. Pair your drink with some delicious nibbles, which lean towards fresh, Mediterranean-inspired flavours like Provençal salads and sourdough with yuzu butter. For a grown-up night out in a relaxed atmosphere, The Jane Eyre is an easy choice.

Address: 14 Hood St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6WX

The Wash House | Laundry? Not quite.

Disguised as an unassuming laundrette, The Wash House is one of Manchester’s most elusive speakeasies. Push past the detergent and decoy washing machines, pick up the old-school phone, and if you’re on the list, you’ll be granted entry through a secret door.

Inside, it’s all leather booths, low lighting, and an experimental cocktail menu that gets wilder the deeper you dive. Expect expertly crafted drinks, playful twists, and a touch of theatre—just don’t turn up with your laundry.

Address: 19 Shudehill, Manchester M4 2AF

Behind Closed Doors | A cheeky basement cocktail bar

If you’re looking for something a little more daring, Behind Closed Doors offers a unique experience in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. This hidden basement bar features 70s-inspired décor with a dash of naughty nostalgia. Expect cocktails paired with a playful, vintage atmosphere that’s perfect for those who want to push the boundaries a little.

Address: 93 Oldham St, Manchester, M4 1LW

Cloud 23 | Cocktails with a view

Elevate your cocktail experience at Cloud 23, a bar perched high above the city in the Beetham Tower. With a menu inspired by Greek mythology and breathtaking views over Manchester, Cloud 23 is ideal for a romantic evening or a night of glamour with friends. The cocktails are divine, and the atmosphere is nothing short of spectacular.

Address: Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LQ

Sterling |Vintage glamour and timeless cocktails

Sterling transports you straight back to the Roaring Twenties. Located in the basement beneath the Stock Exchange Hotel, this bar exudes old-school glamour with its intimate, moody ambiance and expertly crafted drinks. The menu is split into three categories: The Untouchables (classic cocktails done to perfection), Sterling Moonshine (signature creations), and Vintage Cocktails (made with premium, often rare spirits). Whether you’re after a sophisticated night out or a date night with a difference, Sterling’s vintage-inspired cocktails and stylish setting never disappoint.

Address: 4 Norfolk St, Manchester, M2 1DW

The Daisy | A Parisian-inspired night out 

For a touch of European flair, The Daisy is the perfect place. Inspired by the glitzy bars of Paris’s Pigalle district, this subterranean gem in the Northern Quarter is known for its refined cocktails and lively weekend energy, with local DJs spinning tunes every Friday and Saturday. It’s an ideal spot for late-night escapism and indulgence. They’ve also got tasty Oysters on Friday, too.

Address: 44 Tib St, Manchester, M4 1NB

Fenix |Greek-inspired drinks and culinary storytelling

Fenix is a cocktail bar that combines the best of Greek dining with innovative drinks. Their cocktail menu is divided into four elements — Water, Earth, Wind, and Fire — each representing a unique sensory experience. Fenix’s cocktail selection is as thoughtful as it is creative, with a focus on rare Greek ingredients.

Address:The Goods Yard Building Goods Yard Street, Manchester M3 3BG

Finders Keepers | Waterside cocktails with a neighbourhood touch

Finders Keepers is one of Manchester’s best-kept secrets, offering top-quality cocktails with a stunning waterside view of Islington Marina. This charming bar features a seasonal menu and monthly specials, along with expertly crafted non-alcoholic options, wines, and local beers. Perfect for a relaxed evening out or a pre-concert drink, it’s also just a short walk from the COOP Live Arena.

Address: 7 Keepers Quay, Manchester, M4 6GL

Hawksmoor | Classic cocktails with a touch of class

If you’re in the mood for some timeless classics, Hawksmoor is the place to be. Known for its high-quality drinks and sophisticated atmosphere, the menu includes favourites like the Shaky Pete’s Ginger Brew and Reformed Pornstar. Whether you’re a fan of whiskey or gin, Hawksmoor is sure to impress.

What do you think? Have we missed any? Let us know at [email protected]