Long gone are the days where Manchester's culinary claims to fame were the likes of rag pudding, eccles cake and vimto. Today, this modern metropolitan city hosts a wide range of multicultural delicacies and delights. Whether it be fine dining in Deansgate, the worldly food of a bustling Chinatown, or branching out into the alternative bohemia of the Northern Quarter, this city has it all. Manchester competes on every level with the vibrancy and energy of any UK city, complete with its own unique northern charm.
Here are some of our favorite places to grab a bite to eat between lectures when studying in Manchester.
Hawksmoor
Located in the Deansgate area of Manchester inside a beautiful Victorian courthouse building, Hawksmoor Steak and Seafood restaurant is not to be overlooked if steak is your food of choice.
A wide range of steak cuts are on offer here, and you'll want to bring your appetite - steaks don’t generally come any smaller than 500g.
Although Hawksmoor can be a fine dining experience, it doesn’t have to break the bank, and offers a steak lunch special for under £16. Perfect if you're on a student budget!
Teppanyaki Chinatown
Set in the heart of Manchester's Chinatown, Teppanyaki is the place to go for the ultimate food-theatre experience. Authentic Japanese food is cooked right before your eyes, allowing you to learn all about the Teppanyaki cooking culture.
Often restaurants of this style can appear overcrowded and somewhat gimmicky, but not Teppanyaki Chinatown. The restaurant has a calm and cosy feel to it, with all focus on the quality of food.
Luck Lust Liquor and Burn
Situated in Manchester's Northern Quarter, Luck Lust Liquor and Burn focuses on all things Mexican. Combining great Mexican staples such as tacos and burritos, with original fillings and exotic cocktails, this restaurant is a feast for the eyes as well as the pallet.
Its rustic decor, and easy-going vibe make it a popular student destination and a perfect choice for anyone looking to socialise over tantalising cocktails and eat the best burritos outside of Mexico.
Evelyn’s Cafe Bar
If one place personifies the bohemian feel of Manchester's Northern Quarter, Evelyn’s Cafe Bar is it. With extensive breakfast, day, evening and Sunday menus, one visit won't be enough to enjoy all the amazing food available here.
All produce is prepared with fresh ingredients, including a plethora of vegan and and gluten free options. Evelyn’s also sells a sophisticated choice of health 'shots', including turmeric with beetroot, ginger with lemon and blue algae.
On the cusp of all things new and fresh in the world of independent cafe culture, Evelyn’s is reasonably priced and ideal if you're currently on a bit of a health kick.
No1 Canal Street
No1 Canal Street is, as the name suggests, situated on the famous street that bares this restaurant's name. No1 combines the best British-inspired dishes with an extensive wine menu to match.
This restaurant is a perfect combination of great tasting, high-quality traditional dining with affordable prices. Eating here will give you a chance to try traditional northern delicacies such as the black pudding scotch egg, served with a celeriac, apple and truffle remoulade. Or maybe you'd rather have the apple and sage sausage roll, served with a pickled vegetable salad.
Whatever you choose to eat, whether you're a Manchester native or visiting student, you'll have a fantastic meal here.
The Allotment Vegan Eatery
Found in the center of Manchester, The Allotment Vegan Eatery sets a very high standard when it comes to restaurants, vegan or otherwise.
Their ever-changing menu comprises a wide variety of choice, flavors and creativity. Choose from their extensive al a carte, lunchtime and small plate menus, and you're sure to find a dish that’s right for you.
If you wish to try a little of everything, you can also opt for a five- or 10-course taster menu and enlighten yourself to the often unknown delights of vegan cuisine.
Skillfully crafted surprises such as the cauliflower hot wings, the butternut squash bon bon, both served with a puy lentil ragout, are must-eats and will change your perceptions of vegan food.
With a casual setting, an attention to detail, and a abundance of choice, The Allotment Vegan Eatery will have vegans and meat-eaters returning alike.
