Manchester’s most ‘Instagrammable’ restaurants and bars

In a recent independent restaurant index study Manchester has emerged as Instagram’s favourite UK city when it comes to tantalising food experiences.

This bustling city has captured the hearts and feeds of social media users with its delectable cuisine and aesthetically pleasing dining spots.

In these restaurants in the city, a meal becomes a work of art.

With its vibrant atmosphere and an abundance of Instagrammable decor, it’s no surprise that Manchester reigns supreme as the UK’s hotspot for foodie content on Instagram.

Neon signs, mural walls, and eye-catching interiors provide an endless array of picture-worthy backdrops that food enthusiasts simply can’t resist.

The numbers speak for themselves, as Manchester continues to dominate social media platforms with its culinary allure.

Over the past 12 months, the city has witnessed an impressive average of 116,000 monthly searches on Instagram for “Manchester restaurants,” solidifying its position as a go-to destination for food lovers.

Additionally, the hashtag #manchesterrestaurants garnered 2,400 monthly online searches, while an astounding 39,467 Instagram posts showcased the delectable offerings and ambience of the city’s eateries.

Manchester’s most Instagrammable restaurants

The Laundrette Chorlton

Among the many culinary gems in Manchester, The Laundrette Chorlton stands out as a great example of the city’s Instagram foodie culture.

This super Instagrammable independent restaurant has amassed a dedicated following of 12.3K Instagram users, who eagerly capture and share their experiences.

With 13.5K location tags and 285 posts using the #thelaundrettechorlton hashtag, this establishment perfectly embodies the fusion of delectable cuisine, whimsical decor, and an irresistible visual appeal.

The Laundrette Chorlton takes pride in serving “cocktails and carbs” that go beyond the ordinary.

Alongside their creatively crafted libations and mouthwatering dishes, visitors are treated to an ambience featuring floral walls and disco balls.

Every aspect of this dining experience has been thoughtfully designed to create an unforgettable journey for both the taste buds and the camera lens.

Zouk Tea Bar and Grill

Zouk Tea Bar and Grill, has been a fan favourite since its establishment in 2009, delighting Manchester’s food enthusiasts with its exceptional blend of Indian and Pakistani cuisine.

Located in the city centre, just off Oxford Road and within minutes of the iconic Palace Theatre, Zouk brings a unique twist to traditional flavours, offering a diverse menu that spans from tantalising street food to hearty roasts.

To top it all off, the revamped terrace provides a trendy lounge-style environment where patrons can enjoy an extensive cocktail menu.

It’s a beautiful place with great food, that explore definitely deserves a spot on your Instagram feed.

You can book a table by clicking here.

The Stock Market Grill

British seasonal fare in a historic dining room, right in the very heart of Manchester.

Without a doubt, Stock Market Grill is located in one of the most beautiful dining rooms in Manchester, possibly even the whole country.

You can expect well-loved British dishes that have been elevated through incredible produce and expert technique to give you an experience to remember. Don’t forget your camera.

MNKY HSE

A very suave affair.

MNKY HSE offers a fantastic selection of Latin American cuisine re-imagined by Chef Mark Morrans with a bold and indulgent sharing menu.
Choose from luxurious platters, ceviche, tacos, sushi or the robata grill for a menu of bold and vibrant flavours.

Check out their website here. 

Rosso

Rosso Restaurant is Inspired by the deep traditions of Southern Italy, so you know it’s going to be impeccably turned out.

An opulent, breathtaking interior housed by a resplendent Grade II listed building enshrines an unparalleled experience for you to stick on the grid.

If it’s cocktails and catch-ups, lunch and laughter, antipasto and anecdotes or dining and indulging; their generationally preserved menu of traditional and contemporary Italian favourites accommodates for every party.

Climat

Climat is the second site from the team behind Covino, who established in Chester’s historic city centre in 2016 – going on to forge a reputation both regionally & nationally as a fiercely passionate wine-led restaurant with exciting daily changing menus.

With amazing panoramic views across the city and a beautiful terrace to drink in the (fleeting) sunshine, this is a great place to live it up.

Executive Chef Luke Richardson best defines his style of cooking as ‘Parisian expat food’ – a nod towards the time he spent in the cosmopolitan kitchens of the French capital. His influence on their menus is more plainly described as ‘just food you want to eat’.

Don’t forget your camera!

Lucky Cat

Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant opened this week to much fanfare in the city.

And with a tasty shared menu and beautiful opulent settings, this is a place you want to be seen in.

Asian-inspired small plates, Robata grilled dishes, sushi and sashimi are exquisitely crafted in the open kitchen and signature raw bar.

Gordon and his Executive Head Chef have designed each dish to be shared at the centre of the table. Coupled with the amazing settings of the old Midland Bank on Kings Street, you’re in an Instagrammable paradise.

Tattu

Tattu Manchester comes with no introduction required. Without a doubt one of the most beautiful restaurants in the City, Tattu offers an amazing selection of food, drinks and cocktails too.

The restaurant is curated to take you on a sensory journey from East to West, with the concept visually inspired by body art and its travels from its origins in the East, across the oceans through trade, to find its place in today’s modern world.

The cherry blossom is a symbol of good luck and life, whilst their anchors represent the home where the brand was born.

With colourful Chinese-inspired cuisine, and carefully crafted cocktails – everything is designed to be unique.

Take your camera, you can’t miss in here!

The Ivy Spinningfields Manchester

Nestled in the heart of Spinningfields, even the building is worth a snap. The Pavillion is surrounded by greenery and lights up depending on the time of year.

Serving modern British classics for breakfast, lunch, dinner, weekend brunch and everything in between.

The Ivy Asia and Bar is located on the second floor, open seven days a week from 5pm and from 12pm at the weekends.

There is a central glamorous late-night bar and the restaurant is illuminated with a show-stopping green, semi-precious stone floor serving Asian-inspired cocktails and sharing dishes with entertainment and resident DJ’s.

Grand Pacific

Grand Pacific is on the glamorous King Street, and is a big hitter with a beautiful interior perfect for photos.

It’s definitely up there with the most beautiful destinations in the city.

Set in the stunning 19th Century architecture of the Manchester Liberal Reform Club’s original dining room where politicians, bankers, lawyers and professionals of all kinds gathered. The great and the good of Manchester society convened for discourse and pleasure.

And now you can head on down and enjoy their great selection of food and drink.

Richmond Tea Rooms

Take a trip to wonderland and enjoy an exquisite afternoon tea in the heart of Manchester.

With an award-winning ‘Alice in Wonderland’ themed dining experience complemented with freshly prepared sandwiches, cakes and treats – all individually made in-house with flavours and fillings hand-picked by a team of dedicated chefs.

Their weird and wonderful array of exotic and rare teas from around the world stand side by side with traditional favourites ensuring that every taste is catered for.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a last-minute afternoon out Richmond Tea Rooms is a great place to have a wonderful stay and take some great snaps.

Australasia

A stylish sanctuary, hidden under the heart of Manchester.

Since opening in 2011, Australasia has become one of the city’s most photographed and favourite restaurants.

A place of relaxed elegance and laid-back luxe, where a good time is guaranteed.

Bathed in the natural tones of the Pacific coastline, which sets a tranquil scene that’s adaptable to any occasion.

20 Stories

Situated on the 19th floor of No.1 Spinningfields, 20 Stories is composed of a glamorous restaurant,  lively bar and expansive rooftop terrace with unparalleled 360-degree views of the Manchester skyline.

The 20 Stories kitchen have created menus that showcase the best of the Northwest, with an aim to source ingredients locally.

The bar, headed up by Bar Manager Jack Marsden, serves Signature Cocktails, Craft Beer and experiments with local ingredients to provide the most unique tastes in the city.

With an extensive wine list, created by the 20 Stories Head Sommelier, wine pairing has never felt so easy.

Adam Reid at The French

Using only the finest seasonal produce available, the food at The French is known across the city and beyond for its exquisite flavours.

The set tasting menu of modern British cuisine showcases the creative culinary talents of Manchester’s own Adam Reid.

Adam Reid joined The French back in 2013 as Head Chef, before taking over as Chef-Patron in 2016. Since then, he has been awarded 4 AA rosettes, as well as going on to win BBC’s prestigious Great British Menu competition with his signature dessert, Golden Empire.

Perfectly marrying old and new, The French’s Grade II listed dining room provides an opulent yet welcoming and friendly atmosphere that’s steeped in history.

Adam Reid at The French is famed for its immaculate service as well as its food and is proud to be one of Manchester’s favourite restaurants.

Peter Street Kitchen

Set inside the iconic Free Trade Hall, Peter Street Kitchen explores fine contemporary Japanese cuisine matched with the heat and zing from a selection of contemporary Mexican dishes, all complemented with the finest wines, sake and signature cocktails.

Incredibly stylish, this is a great place to get some high-end snaps.

The Refuge

The Kimpton Hotel is an amazing setting, period.

And right at their heart, with no airs or graces, the Public Bar is the beating heart of The Refuge.

They offer coffee and co-working in the morning, board games after lunch, and cocktails and craft ales into the early hours.

Kimpton’s resident DJs curate the experience Thursday through Saturday with an eclectic mix of jazz, swing, funk, soul and house to cater for everyone’s taste.

With beautiful high ceilings and fantastic exhibitions, it’s well worthy of its place on the grid.

Dakota

Immerse yourself in the heart & soul of Dakota: the Grill.

Delivering a warm and inviting dining experience for hotel guests and local visitors alike, the Grill offers breakfast, lunch and dinner, created with fresh, seasonal produce by a passionate team of chefs.

The Dakota Bar provides a casual, yet refined bar setting; whether you join them for your next coffee meeting, or to enjoy lite-bites with a signature cocktail, choose from an extensive range of timeless classics and in-house originals – mixed to perfection!

Manchester is Instagram’s favourite UK city for restaurants

From hip bistros adorned with colourful street art to elegant cafes boasting minimalist chic, the city offers a visual feast at every corner.

Foodies and influencers alike revel in the opportunity to capture Instagram-worthy moments that blend culinary excellence with artistic expression.

As Instagram’s favourite UK city for restaurants, Manchester has carved its place as a captivating food destination.

From the enchanting decor to the sumptuous culinary offerings, this city presents a delightful harmony of taste and aesthetics.

Whether you’re seeking mouthwatering delights or looking to curate the perfect Instagram feed, Manchester’s food scene promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you hungry for more.

So, grab your camera and prepare to embark on a gastronomic adventure through the streets of this dynamic and visually stunning city.

You can read the full report here.