The best restaurants in and around Manchester

Manchester’s food scene is booming, with amazing places to eat all over the city and beyond. Whether you’re looking for fancy Michelin-starred meals, laid-back local spots, or places that offer great value, Greater Manchester has it all.

We get asked all the time about the best places to eat in Manchester. If we had a pound for every time someone asked us, we’d be dining in the city’s best restaurants every night and never have to cook for ourselves again.

Of course, asking for the ‘best’ restaurant is a bit of a tricky question. After all, the best place is often the one that feels right for you. It’s that local gem where they remember your name and your favourite dish, a spot you can trust to be brilliant every time. It might be a low-key pizzeria or an elegant dining room in the heart of the city. What matters most is the character and care behind the food and the team that brings it to your table.

There’s something special about a Michelin star or sleek city centre venue, but real hospitality and consistent excellence are just as important. Those are the places that make you want to come back time and time again.

So, to make things easier for everyone, we’ve created a list of the best restaurants in Greater Manchester. These restaurants have all been praised by the Michelin Guide, AA Rosette, Good Food Guide, and other respected awards.

You’ll find plenty of great places to eat in the city centre, but there are also some fantastic spots in the suburbs, from Ramsbottom and Westhoughton in the north to Stockport in the south. Suburban restaurants often have a more laid-back vibe, often lower prices, and easier parking.

If you live near any of these places, you’re in luck. You don’t need to head into the city to get a great meal. From the oldest restaurants in Manchester to the newest, we’ve listed them in no particular order to keep things simple.

Please don’t forget to tip your server!

The best restaurants in Manchester

Skof 

Breaking Mana’s Michelin monopoly, Skof has swiftly become Manchester’s second-ever restaurant to earn a star – achieving this milestone in less than a year. The mastermind behind it is Tom Barnes, formerly executive chef at the three-star L’Enclume, a Roux Scholar, and a Great British Menu finalist.

Stepping out of Simon Rogan’s shadow, Barnes has launched his own venture in a converted textile warehouse in Manchester, offering his refined take on modern British cuisine. Much of the produce still comes from Rogan’s Farm in Cumbria, ensuring the same exceptional quality. For those wanting Michelin-starred dining at an approachable price, the £50 lunch menu is a must.

According to the Michelin Guide, the industrial-chic setting and buzzing atmosphere set the stage for a menu that blends local and international flavours beautifully. Desserts range from omakase sorbet to Manchester honey ice cream, and the meal ends on a sentimental note with “Barney’s Tiramisu,” a tribute to Barnes’s late father.

3 Federation Street, Manchester, M4 4BF, United Kingdom

You can book a table here

Mana  

Mana was the first restaurant in Manchester to earn a Michelin star since 1977 and is often credited with starting the city’s fine dining revival. Found in Ancoats, it focuses on sustainability, sourcing ingredients exclusively from within the British Isles. The dishes are modern and inventive, showcasing the best of the land and sea.

While the atmosphere is relaxed, the experience is still top-tier. The full tasting menu costs £195, with a shorter version for £95. Vegetarians have their own carefully crafted menu, but dishes cannot be changed unless they are agreed in advance for dietary needs. For a real treat, the £140 wine pairing is worth it.

The Michelin Guide praises chef-owner Simon Martin’s skill and creativity. Every table has a view of the open kitchen, and British produce takes centre stage, including plenty of seafood because, as Simon says, we live on an island. Asian techniques add complexity and balance, like in the roasted hogget with white miso sabayon.

42 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6BF

You can book a table here

Where the Light Gets In

Tucked away on Rostron Brow in Stockport, Where the Light Gets In is a gem of a restaurant by Sam Buckley, a former chef at L’Enclume. Housed in a bright, loft-style space with views over the rooftops, the open kitchen adds to the relaxed, buzzy vibe.

There is no set menu. Instead, diners are guided through a series of inventive small plates and snacks, each shaped by what the team has caught, harvested, or sourced that day. Sustainability is central here, with almost no waste and every part of the ingredient put to use. Expect unusual yet thoughtful combinations, like raw langoustine carpaccio with rose, plum, and lavender, or mussels in a rich mussel and hawthorn broth. Highlights include roasted pigeon breast with morels and a decadent Victoria plum cake with plum stone cream. Carefully selected wines and inventive juices round out the meal, perfectly complementing the flavours on the plate.

The Michelin Guide praises the restaurant’s use of seasonal and foraged British produce, noting how the kitchen’s pickles and ferments bring out even more depth. The matching wine flights focus on natural, low-intervention choices, adding to the restaurant’s charm and commitment to sustainability.

7 Rostron Brow, Stockport, SK1 7JY, United Kingdom

You can book a table here

Higher Ground

Opened in early 2023 after a successful pop-up in 2020, Higher Ground has quickly made a name for itself in Manchester. Run by Joseph Otway, Richard Cossins, and Daniel Craig Martin, the restaurant has a relaxed British bistro feel with a smart bar and a dedicated wine room.

Their previous venture, Flawd wine bar, was already a hit, and now they have turned their attention to a bigger space in the city centre. Seating 50, the restaurant has a striking burnt orange leather counter overlooking the open kitchen and charcoal oven, alongside pale wooden tables and dark leather chairs that create a welcoming yet minimalist setting.

The menu focuses on seasonal sharing plates at £60 for dinner, with a lunchtime sharing menu for £40. Expect creative dishes like coal-roasted scallops with nasturtium and green tomato relish, crisp pea fritters with Quicke’s Cheddar, and English asparagus with burnt garlic mayo and soft-boiled egg. Hot-smoked trout with golden beetroot and sungolds is a highlight, and the Curing Rebels British saucisson is a real treat. Dishes change often, so it’s worth checking in ahead of your visit.

The wine list focuses on small-scale, low-intervention producers from across Europe, perfectly matching the food. The Michelin Guide praises the laid-back sharing plates and the dedication to flavour, noting the warm and cheery service from the team. With such attention to detail and a vibrant atmosphere, Higher Ground is already firmly on the city’s culinary map.

Faulkner House, New York St, Manchester M1 4DY

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El Gato Negro

Chef Simon Shaw brought El Gato Negro to Manchester after moving from Ripponden, transforming a three-storey King Street building into a lively tapas haven. The restaurant blends spaciousness with intimacy, its chic design featuring local nods like a mosaic of Frank Sidebottom and John Cooper Clarke.

The first-floor dining area has floor-to-ceiling windows and an open kitchen where a menu full of expertly made dishes comes to life. Standouts include smoky char-grilled pork skewers with mojo verde, sugar-cured mackerel with celeriac and grapefruit salad, and spiced aubergine with onion confit, fritada sauce and lavash bread. The Josper grill adds juicy onglet steaks, while desserts range from doughnuts and crema catalana to a shareable chocolate fondue.

The Menu Rapido is perfect for a quick weekday lunch. Upstairs, The Black Cat bar serves creative cocktails beneath a retractable roof that opens to the night sky.

The Michelin Guide notes that El Gato Negro is a buzzing spot across all three levels, from outdoor seating to the open kitchen and roof terrace. They highlight the great value and the skilled cooking, especially the Spanish classics and indulgent desserts.

52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY

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The Spärrows

The Sparrows is the best Manchester restaurant you’ve (probably) never heard of. Tucked under the railway arches in Manchester’s Green Quarter, The Spärrows is a hidden gem serving up handmade dumplings and pasta from across Europe. Inspired by dough-based traditions, the menu ranges from pierogi and pelmeni to spätzle and ravioli, offering comforting flavours from Germany, Austria, Italy and Poland.

The highlight is the spätzle, a fresh egg pasta loved across Central Europe, paired with rich, regional sauces and served with a slice of crusty bread. The drinks list is equally thoughtful, featuring Italian coffee, Japanese green tea, craft beers from Switzerland, organic Austrian wines and sake.

For groups, sharing boards of smoked sausage or cheeses are perfect, served with winter salads or hearty beans. Diners can choose from a range of sauces to complement their pasta, from butter and sage to creamy chorizo and cherry tomato.

Sweet-toothed visitors can finish with dishes like bergamot tea panna cotta, the house brownie or sweet spätzle with cinnamon, brown sugar and butter.

The Michelin Guide praises The Spärrows for its homely, handmade dishes and relaxed atmosphere. They note the dumplings and pasta are made in-house and highlight the well-chosen selection of Eastern European wines.

16 Red Bank, Cheetham Hill, Manchester M4 4HF

You can book a table here

Adam Reid at The French

Adam Reid continues to wow diners at The French, the flagship restaurant in Manchester’s grand Midland Hotel. While it may not yet hold a Michelin star, the food here is unforgettable. The French is a jewel in the city’s culinary crown and just keeps getting better. Under Reid’s relaxed leadership, the dining room still glows with old-world elegance, and the kitchen champions bold modern British cooking.

Expect dishes like seared scallops with trout roe and onion broth, or salt-aged duck with beetroot and pickled elderberries. Reid’s menus often pay tribute to the North, with crispy dripping toast and tongue, Lancashire cheese and onion pie, and meat-free options like tater ash with mushroom ketchup and bread and butter.

Diners can choose between four- and nine-course tasting menus, as well as a Great British Menu-inspired selection. Prices start at £50 for four courses, with wine pairings also available. Every plate showcases Reid’s skill and creativity, making it well worth the visit.

The Michelin Guide praises the Belle Époque setting and the modern, flavourful dishes with playful touches, all celebrating the chef’s Northern roots. The personable team and beautiful finishing touches at the table add to the charm of this refined yet welcoming dining experience.

Midland Hotel, 16 Peter Street, Manchester, M60 2DS

You can book a table here

Erst

9 Murray St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6HS

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Hawksmoor Manchester

Hawksmoor Manchester may have started as a London name, but after over a decade in the city and winning the Most-Loved Restaurant Award at the 2023 I Love Manchester Awards, it has truly become a Manchester institution. Set in a stunning Victorian courthouse on Deansgate, this sleek steakhouse combines old-world grandeur with a modern, welcoming feel.

The menu champions top-notch British produce, with ethically reared beef and sustainable seafood taking centre stage. From perfectly cooked chateaubriand served with anchovy hollandaise to juicy chicken brined and slathered in garlic butter, every dish showcases impeccable sourcing and expert technique. Their Sunday roasts have also become a local favourite, earning them a loyal following.

Drinks here are equally impressive. The cocktail list is one of the best in Manchester, featuring creative twists like the sour cherry negroni alongside classic options. Service is warm and polished, with staff who know the menu inside out and are always happy to offer recommendations.

For those special occasions, the glass-walled private dining room seats up to 14 in sophisticated style, making Hawksmoor a great choice for celebrations or corporate dinners. With its elegant setting, exceptional food, and signature charm, Hawksmoor Manchester looks set to remain a local favourite for years to come.

184–186 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3WB

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Elnecot

A pioneer of the Ancoats renaissance, Elnecot has long flown the flag for bold small plates, natural wine, and a proper Sunday roast. Chef-owner Michael Clay brings global influences back to his Northern roots with creative, ever-changing dishes that often surprise and always satisfy. Expect flavour-packed plates like fried squid with cultured butter and fermented habanero, or Shropshire veal and bone marrow curry with garlic and onion seed bread. The brunch menu, featuring pork belly and lamb shoulder—has cult status, and Clay’s “sexy cabbage” has developed a following all its own. Regular themed supper clubs add further intrigue to a place that’s proudly casual but deeply committed to quality.

41 Blossom Street, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6AJ

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Maya

Tucked into a smartly revamped warehouse on the corner of Chorlton Street and Canal Street, Maya stands out as a stylish spot that’s perfect for any occasion. This modern restaurant and bar has quickly made a name for itself with an atmosphere that feels both fresh and inviting.

The ground floor boasts a lively cocktail bar and bistro, ideal for kicking back with friends over drinks and sharing small plates. Upstairs, the bistro bar and terrace combine sleek design with a relaxed vibe, making it a great choice for everything from casual catch-ups to more refined evenings out.

Inside, Maya feels effortlessly elegant. Think art deco touches, soft lighting, and plush seating, all adding to the sense of sophistication without feeling stuffy. The kitchen puts a contemporary spin on classic dishes, using top-quality ingredients that really shine. Standouts include delicate turbot with a perfectly made sauce bonne femme, showing off the kitchen’s traditional skills alongside modern creativity.

The cocktail menu is just as impressive as the food, with a carefully curated selection of drinks that reflect the area’s lively spirit. Whether you’re here for a relaxed lunch or a night out, Maya brings a fresh energy to Manchester’s dining scene and looks set to become a favourite in the city.

40 Chorlton St., Manchester M1 3HW

You can book a table here

Climat

Perched high above the city, Climat is a rooftop oasis that pairs stunning views with a dining experience that’s both refined and laid-back. Chef Luke Richardson’s menu brings a playful elegance to seasonal British produce, offering small plates that surprise and delight. Think crispy hash browns served with tangy lemon taramasalata, warm gougères that melt in the mouth, and rich vol-au-vents packed with flavour. For those after something more substantial, Climat serves up dry-aged sirloin steaks cooked to perfection, complemented by a silky dulse hollandaise sauce.

What truly sets Climat apart is its passion for wine. The extensive, carefully chosen wine list is full of interesting finds, from rare vintages to natural wines that push the boundaries of flavour. The staff know their stuff and are always ready to help you discover the perfect pairing for your meal.

The atmosphere strikes the perfect balance between elegant and easygoing, making it a great spot for everything from a special night out to a leisurely lunch in the clouds. With its unbeatable views, confident cooking and world-class wine list, Climat has quickly become a standout on Manchester’s dining scene.

8th Floor, Blackfriars House St Marys, Climat, Parsonage, Manchester M3 2JA

You can book a table here

Another Hand

Another Hand is a cosy and stylish gem on Deansgate Mews, created by a team that includes Max Yorke, Julian Pizer and Danny Foggo. Here, the focus is on fresh, simple dishes made from top-quality ingredients sourced from local, ethical producers across the North West. The open kitchen adds a buzz to the relaxed dining room, where everything is prepared right in front of you.

This intimate 24-seat spot is all about sharing plates that burst with flavour. Expect bright, vegetarian-led creations that showcase the best seasonal produce, served one at a time to let each dish shine. Craft beers and carefully chosen natural wines add a perfect pairing to the lively experience.

What really makes Another Hand stand out is its laid-back but engaging atmosphere. With friendly, enthusiastic service and a real focus on doing justice to local ingredients, it’s a place that feels modern, fresh and full of soul.

Unit F, 253 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4EN

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San Carlo

San Carlo Manchester stands as a cornerstone of the city’s dining scene, renowned for its authentic Italian cuisine and sophisticated ambiance. Located on King Street West, this flagship restaurant of the San Carlo Group has garnered acclaim from prestigious guides such as the Michelin Guide, AA Rosette, and the Good Food Guide.

The interior exudes elegance with its all-white decor accented by stylish red touches, creating a chic and inviting atmosphere. The open-plan dining area and sophisticated bar and lounge offer the perfect setting for any occasion, from romantic dinners to business lunches or social gatherings.

The menu is a celebration of traditional Italian flavours, featuring standout dishes like Scallops San Carlo and Tagliatelle Monte Carlo—pasta served with sautéed shallots and diced monkfish in a creamy tomato and white wine sauce. The restaurant prides itself on sourcing high-quality ingredients, many imported directly from Italy, ensuring an authentic dining experience.

San Carlo’s reputation extends beyond its culinary offerings; it’s a favoured spot among celebrities, sports stars, and discerning diners alike. The attentive service and vibrant atmosphere contribute to its status as a must-visit destination in Manchester.

40-42 King Street West, Manchester M3 2WY

You can book a table here

Fenix

Fenix is an outstanding Greek inspired restaurant that has been wowing diners in Manchester since it opened in 2023. Led by executive head chef Ippokratis Anagnostelis alongside long-time collaborator and head chef Zisis Giannouras, they have created a sharing concept menu designed to take customers on a journey of Greek discovery. Get stuck into their leg of slow-roasted lamb, spiced tiger prawns or even dabble with the divine orzo and langoustine. Over-awed by the heat of the Grecian sunshine? Try their cold menu. The bass ceviche and steak tartare are out of this world. Front and centre of the wine list are varieties from Greek and Cycladic vineyards. Situated on a terroir of volcanic soils, the region produces wines that pair perfectly with the smokey, charred meat, fish and veg from FENIX’s central grill. They have some outstanding dishes on the menu, and the decor matches the ambition on the plate. It even got a riotous write-up in the Guardian courtesy of Jay Rayner. You can read that here

The Goods Yard Building, Goods Yard St, Manchester M3 3BG

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Stow

A relative newcomer that’s already made serious waves, Stow is all about fire, flavour and flair. Founded by a team of hospitality pros with past lives at Trof and Albert’s Schloss, this Bridge Street bistro leans into live-fire cooking with knockout results. Sharing plates are the name of the game, with highlights like ex-dairy ribeye and fluffy flatbreads with wild garlic butter. Even humble sides like Jersey Royals are elevated with clever use of capers and technique. Add in relaxed vibes and sensible prices, and it’s no wonder this place is being hailed as one of last year’s best openings.

62 Bridge Street, Manchester, M3 3BW

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10 Tib Lane

Tucked away in a quiet city-centre street, 10 Tib Lane is an intimate, candle-lit escape with a French-inspired menu built for sharing. Expect ever-changing seasonal plates, from delicate baby courgettes with polenta to perfectly seared onglet with rich red wine sauce. Meat, fish, and vegetable dishes alike are treated with equal care, and the well-chosen wine list complements every bite. The cocktail selection is outstanding—no surprise, given the owners also run the much-loved Henry C in Chorlton.

10 Tib Ln, Manchester M2 4JB

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Exhibition

Exhibition brings together three of the city’s top chefs under one roof. Here, you’ll find the bold flavours of the Middle East from Jaan by Another Hand, featuring their signature Wildfarmed house flatbreads, a staple from their Deansgate Mews restaurant. Baratxuri delivers rich Basque-inspired cuisine, while OSMA offers a touch of refined Norwegian minimalism. The rotating kitchen setup ensures a dynamic and ever-evolving menu, with everything from fresh seafood to indulgent pasta dishes. Whether you’re mixing and matching plates or sticking to your favourites, there’s something to satisfy every craving. With DJs setting the vibe on weekends, local beers on tap, and a thoughtfully curated wine list, Exhibition is the place to be. 

St George’s House, 56 Peter St, Manchester M2 3NQ

You can book a table here

Kala

Brought to you by the team behind Hispi, Kala is a warm and welcoming spot in the heart of Manchester that brings a touch of refined comfort to classic dishes. The menu is all about honest, no-nonsense cooking with a few creative twists thrown in for good measure. Highlights include a perfectly crispy chicken schnitzel topped with a rich, coronation-style butter and a beautifully tender tandoori sea bream that melts in the mouth.

For those after something hearty, Kala’s Sunday roast is a real showstopper. Packed with flavour and generously portioned, it’s a comforting end to the week that’s well worth booking ahead for.

Whether you’re after a relaxed lunch, a pre-theatre bite or a special evening out, Kala’s warm atmosphere, charming service and expertly crafted plates make it a neighbourhood gem that’s easy to fall for.

55 King St, Manchester M2 4LQ

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Louis

Hidden behind red velvet curtains in Spinningfields, Louis channels the glamour of a vintage Italian-American speakeasy. Phones down, cameras off—this is a restaurant that wants your full attention. The menu is a nostalgic nod to the classics: think spicy rigatoni alla vodka, osso buco alla Milanese, and truffle cacio e pepe made fresh daily. Rich, hearty dishes like Iberico meatballs in marinara and breaded green lip mussels showcase top-shelf ingredients, beautifully executed. It’s moody, seductive and a little mysterious—exactly what you want in a grown-up night out.

3 Hardman Square, Hardman St, Manchester, M3 3EB

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Onda Pasta Bar

Born from a buzzy pop-up, Onda now has a permanent home at Circle Square, where it draws crowds for its house-made pasta, pizzette and viral tiramisu. The open kitchen is at the heart of the space, with chefs rolling, filling, and shaping dough in full view. Dishes change with the seasons, but always highlight top-quality ingredients and classic Italian flavours with a modern edge. A handful of walk-in tables are kept for those lucky enough to stumble across it.

Circle Square, 3 Symphony Park, Oxford Road, Manchester, M1 7FS

You can book a table here

TNQ

Nestled in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, TNQ is a relaxed yet refined spot championing seasonal British cooking. It has been delighting punters for twenty years. Thoughtfully curated menus shift with the seasons, featuring classics like slow-roasted pork belly with crackling and golden, hand-cut chips. Expect friendly service, a warm ambience, and an ever-changing selection of delicious dishes.

108 High St, Manchester M4 1HQ

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Lucky Cat

Gordon Ramsay’s glitzy Asian-inspired restaurant brings Tokyo’s 1930s kissas and Shanghai’s drinking dens to central Manchester. Lucky Cat is a feast for the eyes and the palate, with moody lighting, open kitchens and a cocktail list designed to impress. Expect small plates made for sharing: sushi and sashimi, robata-grilled skewers, and standout cocktails like the Lucky Negroni. Located in the former Jamie’s Italian on King Street, this lavish space is already turning heads.

100 King Street, Manchester, M2 4WU

You can book a table here

The River Restaurant at The Lowry Hotel

Situated within the five-star Lowry Hotel, The River Restaurant has undergone an exciting refresh that brings a new energy to classic British and French cuisine. The result is a dynamic and modern menu that’s both familiar and surprising. Think comforting dishes elevated with contemporary touches and local, seasonal ingredients.

The sophisticated space itself matches the culinary experience, featuring soft, neutral tones, plush furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer picturesque riverside views. The newly launched menu champions simplicity and flavour, with highlights like tender Cornish crab and delicate sea bass that showcase the kitchen’s refined touch.

A recent review praised the restaurant’s ability to merge classic techniques with modern flair, noting how the updated menu feels “fresh, approachable, and expertly executed.” Whether you’re in for a celebratory dinner, a romantic meal, or a relaxing Sunday lunch, The River promises an elegant yet unpretentious experience.

The Lowry Hotel, 50 Dearmans Pl, Salford M3 5LH

You can book a table here

Tattu

Tattu is a restaurant that knows how to make an impression. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a burst of dramatic interiors, a striking cherry blossom tree and the kind of attention to detail that’s truly show-stopping. Here, maximalism reigns and every meal feels like an event.

But it’s not all about looks. The food at Tattu is just as memorable, full of bold, punchy flavours that surprise and delight. Start with the fresh tuna sashimi blossom or the playful koi-shaped black cod dim sum, then tuck into tender sticky beef short rib or the fragrant red snapper tom yum. Billowing dry ice, skull-shaped cocktail glasses and moody lighting give the place an air of mystery, making it perfect for a fun night out or a special occasion.

It’s a restaurant that celebrates the art of dining with style and flair, blending an unforgettable atmosphere with food that more than lives up to the promise.

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

You can book a table here

Dishoom

A love letter to Bombay’s old Irani cafés, Dishoom blends nostalgia with bold, fascinating flavours. From their famous breakfast naan rolls to all-day sharing plates like smoky masala prawns and rich, slow-cooked biryanis, every dish is crafted with care. The buzzing atmosphere and stylish interiors make it a standout dining spot in Spinningfields and if you’re looking for Indian food, you’d be hard pushed to find better in the city. 

Whether you go for a playful teetotal cocktail or a punchy Padmini Negroni, the drinks menu is worth exploring.

32 Bridge St, Manchester M3 3BT

You can book a table here

Edinburgh Castle

Once a historic pub, now a haven for elevated British dining, Edinburgh Castle serves up innovative seasonal dishes alongside its classic Sunday roasts. It is named as one of the best Gastropubs in the country nearly every year – and that’s for good reason: it is class. From crisp, deep-fried artichokes to indulgent Tamworth pork belly with cabbage, the kitchen doesn’t hold back on bold flavours. The menu evolves with the best of local produce, ensuring each visit feels like something special.

17 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 5EP

You can book a table here

Six by Nico

Six by Nico offers superb dining at a very hospitable price point. They have a rotating six course menu that changes every six weeks, drawing on the creative storytelling of the restaurant’s owner, Nico Simeone. Themes have been as outlandish as Wizard of Oz, Hollywood and chippy tea. It’s brilliant.  If you’re looking for quality vs value, Six by Nico is hard to beat. Prices are £46 a person, with £30 extra for wine pairings of even £40 for cocktails. 

2 John Dalton St or 60 Spring Gardens

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This & That

An unassuming back-alley institution, This & That has been serving up no-frills, flavour-packed Indian food since 1984. Known for its ‘rice and three’ format, this canteen-style spot lets you mix and match generous portions of curries for under a tenner. Simple, delicious, and utterly reliable, it remains a firm favourite for locals and visitors alike. Don’t miss the Sunday nihari stew, a deeply spiced, slow-cooked delight.

3 Soap St, Manchester M4 1EW

The best restaurants in Greater Manchester

Bar San Juan

Bar San Juan is a cosy, charming tapas spot tucked away in Chorlton that instantly transports you to the heart of Spain. Inside, flamenco-inspired decor, handwritten menus and a lively, welcoming atmosphere make it feel like you’ve stepped into a little corner of Madrid.

Grab a jug of sangria and settle in for a selection of small plates that showcase the best of Spanish cuisine. Expect to find favourites like croquetas, padrón peppers and jamón ibérico, alongside less common delights such as meltingly tender slow-cooked beef cheeks with crispy leeks or monkfish skewers drizzled with sherry vinegar. Don’t miss the cojonudo trufado, an indulgent bite of chorizo and quail egg on crusty baguette finished with truffle oil.

Bar San Juan is always buzzing, and part of the fun is joining the lively crowd. Turn up early to secure a table and let yourself be swept up in the warm, convivial spirit that makes this place a true gem of South Manchester.

56 Beech Road, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 9EG

You can book a table here

The Black Friar

After standing empty for almost 20 years, this historic pub has been lovingly brought back to life with a £1.4m restoration in 2021. The result is a welcoming space that beautifully blends the old and new, with a traditional pub feel alongside a striking glass-roofed dining room.

Under Head Chef Ben Chaplin, The Black Friar has become known for its warm, modern take on Northern cooking. In the pub, you’ll find hearty comfort food that hits the spot, while the beer garden is the place to be for wood-fired flatbreads and a relaxed vibe. The restaurant itself steps things up a notch with ambitious dishes that make the most of local ingredients and bold flavours.

No matter where you sit, the Sunday roast is not to be missed—think generous portions of perfectly cooked meat, crisp roasties and all the trimmings. The Black Friar has truly become a gem of Salford, offering a dining experience that’s equal parts cosy and refined.

41-43 Blackfriars Rd, Manchester, M3 7DB

You can book a table here

The White Hart at Lydgate

Perched on the edge of Saddleworth Moor, The White Hart Inn is an 18th-century stone pub that seamlessly blends rustic charm with refined dining. Whether you’re enjoying a fireside pint in the Tap Room or indulging in a sophisticated meal in the brasserie, the inn offers consistently excellent cuisine. It’s regarded as one of the very best gastropubs in Greater Manchester.

At the helm is Head Chef Nathan Sidebottom, who began his culinary journey at The White Hart as an apprentice at 18. After honing his skills at the two-Michelin-starred Midsummer House in Cambridge, he returned to lead the kitchen in 2020. Nathan’s passion for local, seasonal ingredients shines through in his dishes, which artfully balance modern British flavors with international influences.

A highlight of the dining experience is the Chef’s Tasting Menu – a curated journey through seasonal ingredients and inventive flavours that showcase the kitchen’s skill and flair. With plush rooms upstairs, it’s the perfect countryside escape where you can linger longer.

51 Stockport Road, Lydgate, Oldham, OL4 4JJ

You can book a table here

Fold Bistro & Bottle Shop

Tucked away in the charming Marple Bridge, Fold is chef Ryan Stafford’s personal passion project and it feels like a warm homecoming. Stafford, who has cooked for presidents and premiership footballers, brings a touch of nostalgia and plenty of creativity to every dish. Here, comfort classics like scampi fries and chippy teas get a refined twist, while Lancashire hot pot is elevated without losing its heart.

Fold is all about balancing elegance with a friendly, laid-back atmosphere. The attached bottle shop, filled with carefully chosen wines, is perfect for a browse after dinner or to take something special home. It is a proper destination spot that feels welcoming and rooted in the community, making it a place you’ll want to come back to again and again.

7 Town Street, Marple Bridge, Stockport, SK6 5AA

You can book a table here

The Oystercatcher

Seafood spots are a rare find in Manchester, but The Oystercatcher in Chorlton has carved out a name for itself by doing things a little differently. Co-founded by Recep Canliisik and Duncan Ranyard, this neighbourhood gem is all about top-notch seafood cooked simply and beautifully. From succulent grilled octopus and perfectly cooked halibut steak to the freshest oysters, everything comes off the in-house chargrill, which adds a touch of smokiness that sets their dishes apart.

Whether you fancy a proper seafood feast with a sharing platter or want to keep things casual with a refined version of a chippy tea, The Oystercatcher has you covered. Its second outpost in Stanley Square, Sale, proves this winning formula works just as well outside of Chorlton. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger a little longer and come back for more.

123 Manchester Rd, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 9PG

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ÖRME

Modern British cooking with a Nordic soul. This intimate Urmston restaurant is the work of three young friends who clearly know how to hit the right notes. There’s warmth and professionalism in equal measure here, and while the atmosphere is relaxed, the food is seriously refined. Expect a 5- or 7-course tasting menu full of boldly flavoured and beautifully presented dishes, where British produce takes centre stage with subtle Scandinavian touches. The wine flight, including a British-focused option, is well worth adding.

218 Church Road, Urmston, M41 9DX

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Isca

This Levenshulme natural wine bar and restaurant is guided by respect: for the land, the ingredients, and the people who grow and make them. Run by Caroline Dubois (Where The Light Gets In) and Isobel Jenkins (Season’s Eatings), Isca is thoughtful, sustainable and deeply rooted in seasonality. Expect small plates that change regularly—think Jersey Royals with blue cheese, asparagus with yoghurt and almonds—and desserts like ricotta doughnuts or chocolate ganache with olive oil. Wines, preserves and other goodies are available to take home.

825 Stockport Road, Levenshulme, Manchester, M19 3PN

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Cantaloupe

Hidden behind an unassuming facade in Stockport, Cantaloupe has quickly become one of the city region’s most exciting new openings. Helmed by chefs with serious credentials, its menu is tight, seasonal and always evolving. Expect dishes like rabbit with vin jaune and prunes or cime di rapa with chilli and bottarga, paired with a brilliant wine list that plays a starring role. Stop in for snacks and a glass at the bar, or stay for the full experience.

71 Great Underbank, Stockport, SK1 1PE

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Stretford Canteen

Proof that great restaurants don’t need a glamorous postcode. Located next to a 1970s shopping precinct, Stretford Canteen is a tiny, lovely bistro full of personality and heart. Owners Josephine and Dean bring warmth, wit, and serious cooking chops to a space that channels French family-run charm with a Mancunian edge. From its beginnings as a pop-up to becoming one of Manchester’s most talked-about dining rooms, this is a canteen in name only.

118 Chester Road, Stretford, M32 9BH

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Café Continental

A little bit of Paris in Stalybridge. This neighbourhood bistro mixes European charm with a no-fuss attitude and a modern flame-cooked menu. Expect brunch classics like twice-fried chicken buns and steak and eggs, not to mention their incredible Sunday roasts. By night, sharing plates of croquettes, crispy lamb belly, and grilled seafood takes over. The room glows with soft lighting, wood panelling, and red leather booths, a place to linger, sip natural wine, and maybe finish things off with their lush, super-thick Parisian hot chocolate.

5 Melbourne Street, Stalybridge, SK15 2JE

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