Manchester is quickly becoming one of the top culinary destinations in the United Kingdom. With its diverse population and thriving food scene, there are countless restaurants in the city offering something for everyone. From Michelin-starred fine dining to trendy street food markets, here are some of the top restaurants in Manchester.
Cottonopolis: This trendy Asian fusion restaurant is a must-visit for any foodie in Manchester. Located in the city center’s trendy Northern Quarter, Cottonopolis is known for its innovative cocktails and mouth-watering small plates. The menu at Cottonopolis is a fusion of Japanese, Chinese and Korean cuisines, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Some of the standout dishes at Cottonopolis include the sticky pork belly, Korean fried chicken wings, and bao buns filled with crispy duck and hoisin sauce. Cottonopolis also boasts an impressive selection of sake and Japanese whiskey, perfect for washing down those delicious small plates.
The French: If fine dining is more your style, The French at the Midland Hotel is one of the best restaurants in Manchester for a gourmet meal. The French has been a fixture in Manchester’s fine dining scene since 1903 and has earned a coveted Michelin star for its exceptional cuisine. The menu at The French is a celebration of contemporary British cooking, using the finest seasonal ingredients to create elegant, artful dishes. Some of the highlights from their current menu include the pan-roasted halibut with cauliflower puree and truffle butter, and the roasted duck breast with confit leg, roasted baby turnips, and elderberry jus. The French also offers an extensive wine list featuring a selection of both old-world and new-world wines to complement your meal.
Mackie Mayor: For something a bit more relaxed, Mackie Mayor in the Northern Quarter is a great option. This indoor food hall is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century market hall and is home to a variety of street food vendors. Mackie Mayor has something to offer everyone, with vendors specializing in everything from wood-fired pizza to Vietnamese noodles. Some of the standout vendors include Fin Fish Bar, serving up fresh fish and seafood dishes, and Tender Cow, a butchers and grill offering some of the best burgers in the city. The communal seating area in the center of the hall makes Mackie Mayor the perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with friends.
Other top restaurants in Manchester worth mentioning include:
- The Refuge: This stylish restaurant and bar in the Principal Hotel is known for its innovative menu and playful cocktails.
- Hispi: With its focus on seasonal ingredients and beautiful presentation, this modern British restaurant in Didsbury is a local favorite.
- Hawksmoor: This famous steakhouse chain recently opened its Manchester location, offering some of the best steaks in the city.
Whether you’re in the mood for a fancy night out or a casual meal with friends, Manchester’s vibrant food scene has something to offer everyone. With so many top restaurants to choose from, it’s no wonder that foodies from around the world are flocking to this northern powerhouse of a city.
