2026-06-17
Where to Eat in Manchester: Restaurants in Manchester, Pubs, Local Markets and Gastronomic Experiences that I recommend!
Manchester is a city full of surprises, and food is one of them.
It may not be the first thing you think of when you talk about this destination in the north of England, but the truth is that there is a lot to discover at the table.
In the days I spent in the city, I discovered centuries-old pubs with typical British dishes, modern markets with international street food and I even had a gourmet experience at a five o’clock tea.
In other words, you can find a bit of everything here for all tastes!
So, in this article, I share my favorite places to eat in Manchester.
I’ve made a point of including restaurants, pubs, markets, cafés and places I’ve tried (or that have been recommended to me by locals), where you can taste the most authentic side of Manchester, and without emptying your wallet. Or almost. Enjoy!
👉 Book your spot on the Free Walking Tour of Manchester and explore the city’s history, culture, and iconic landmarks.
Restaurants in Manchester: What to Eat and Where
Enfio, eating well in Manchester isn’t difficult. This is because the city is multicultural, creative and has options for all tastes and budgets.
There are places perfect for those who want to try traditional British food, but also for those who prefer a good pizza, Asian flavors, or even fast food with a twist.
Typical Restaurants in Manchester
The Old Wellington
The Old Wellington is a classic spot in the city and almost a must-visit in Manchester. In fact, it’s one of the oldest buildings in the city, with a timber frame and a charm that takes you back in time.
Inside, the atmosphere is cozy and perfect for trying traditional dishes like fish & chips, steak & ale pie, or a Sunday roast. The prices aren’t the lowest, but the experience is definitely worth it.
Sam’s Chop House
Another restaurant worth mentioning. Here they serve classic British dishes with a sophisticated twist. The Corned Beef Hash and the Lamb Hotpot are very popular. The place is also known for its connection to the artist L. S. Lowry, whose statue sits at the counter.
The Old Monkey
More relaxed, this is a typical pub where you can eat well and cheaply. It’s on a busy corner in the center and is good for both lunch and a local beer break. It usually has daily specials and British snacks. The friendliness of the staff also deserves praise.
Budget Restaurants in Manchester
Wright’s Fish & Chips
It’s a traditional chippy on Cross Street, in the center of Manchester. It’s a small restaurant, with a few seats for eating in, but it’s very popular for takeaway.
The most popular dishes are the fresh fish fried in a light, crispy batter, accompanied by French fries. As well as the classic fish and chips, the menu includes options such as sausages and Holland’s pies.
Rudy’s Pizza
They say it’s one of the best pizzerias in the world, and once you’ve tried it, you can see why. The dough ferments for 24 hours, the ingredients are fresh and the oven is always on fire. There are several locations around the city (Ancoats, Peter Street, among others), so it’s easy to find one nearby. The prices are affordable.
YOYO Restaurant
It’s a little off the beaten track, but it’s worth it. It serves authentic Asian food, especially Chinese and Thai, with generous portions and intense flavors. The atmosphere is simple, but the quality of the food speaks louder.
This & That Café
A well-kept secret in Manchester. This Indian restaurant works on a “rice and three” system, i.e. rice with a choice of three side dishes, and it’s super affordable. It’s very popular with local workers, which is always a good sign.
Popeyes Louisiana Chicken (St. Peter’s Square)
Yes, it’s an American restaurant, but it has a legion of fans in Manchester. The fried chicken is crispy, well-seasoned and served with typical southern American side dishes. It’s ideal for a quick and tasty meal between visits to the city.
Pubs with Good Food in Manchester
The Old Monkey
We’ve already mentioned it, but it deserves a mention here too. It’s a typical British pub where you can both drink and eat well. It serves dishes such as bangers and mash and steak pie. Also, the atmosphere is lively, especially in the evening.
The Britons Protection
Famous for its extensive whisky list and traditional décor, this pub also offers simple, well-prepared meals. It’s worth stopping by for a drink or a hot dish on a cold day.
The Crown & Kettle
Located in Ancoats, it is a pub with a history dating back to the 19th century. Recently renovated, it still retains its original charm. Good selection of craft beers and some snack and light meal options.
Food markets in Manchester
Arndale Market
In the Manchester Arndale shopping center, this market combines fresh food stalls with an area dedicated to street food. There’s a bit of everything: Thai, Mexican, Portuguese pastries, vegan, Mediterranean… Ideal for a quick lunch and a chance to try several cuisines in one visit.
Northern Quarter Makers Market (sunday)
If you’re in Manchester on a Sunday, don’t miss this market in the Northern Quarter. There’s artisan food, local produce, independent producers’ stalls and lots of creativity. What’s more, you can sample everything from artisan brownies to local cheeses and international snacks.
Where to Have Afternoon Tea in Manchester?
Richmond Tea Rooms
An exceptional place, with decor inspired by Alice in Wonderland. It’s perfect for those who want to experience the full British afternoon tea. This is because not only are the cakes tasty and exquisite, but the teas are served with elegance and the service is attentive. It tends to fill up, so it’s best to book in advance.
Sugar Junction
Another excellent option for five o’clock tea. It’s in the Northern Quarter and has a vintage atmosphere with a modern twist. The homemade cakes are delicious and the brunch dishes are also noteworthy. It’s a charming place that’s well worth a visit.
Gastronomic Experiences in Manchester
As well as restaurants and markets, Manchester has some gastronomic experiences that are worthwhile for food lovers, such as food tours and workshops:
- Food tours: There are guided tours that combine history and gastronomy, i.e. passing through markets, cafés and secret places.
- Cooking classes: Some local schools and restaurants offer cooking classes, including British and international dishes.
Manchester is a destination full of contrasts, and this can also be felt at the table. This guide brings together just a few of the many options available, but it’s a good starting point for a tasty trip.
Finally, if you know of any more great places to eat in Manchester, let us know in the comments,
👉See how much it costs to rent a car at Manchester Airport!
👉Travel insurance for Manchester, United Kingdom!
You May Also Like:
- Where to Stay in Manchester, UK: Best Hotels and Neighborhoods
- Discover Manchester: From Football Legends to Worker Bees
- You’ve arrived in Manchester! What’s next? All about the airport (MAN)
We are a Family traveling around the world and sharing our journey and experiences at passaportenobolso.com. Here you can find plenty of family budget travel tips as well as practical information about numerous destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia and America. We have visited 40+ countries and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. From time to time I travel alone… Follow everything on YouTube / Instagram / Facebook / TikTok / X / Pinterest.
