Manchester’s Top 5 Foodie Spots: A Delicious Review

Manchester, it’s almost like a place with this food scene that’s really, really buzzing. So, it’s full of seriously great eats and amazing dining experiences. We’re talking hidden gems and some well-known favorites. I’ve tried a fair few places to eat in this town. Therefore, I’ve picked my top five spots that I think you’re really gonna like.

1. The French – Quite Fancy Dining

Now, if you’re wanting something super sophisticated, The French at the Midland Hotel just might be the ticket. You know, the kind of place where everything, that’s from the service to each carefully plated course, feels kind of special. Very special! So, I went there hoping it would offer dining elevated to a level of art, yet, very palatable art at that, and frankly, it didn’t disappoint.

Adam Reid is the chef in charge, and frankly, his tasting menus are quite interesting. Also, I’m not talking just food that looks good. Instead, I’m describing flavors that surprise you. Ingredients, they might be local or seasonal, are almost always used, which makes every meal a brand new adventure. And if you want to push the boat out too, it’s almost as though the wine pairings elevate the whole thing, you know?

It’s almost certain to be quite pricey, but seriously, if you’re looking for a blow-out or something that feels, I don’t know, fancy, then this just might do the job. Actually, I think this spot would be really awesome for celebrating a super special occasion.

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2. Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza – Quite Affordable Eats

Then we get to something totally different, Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza. Really, it’s got several locations, like Ancoats. Rudy’s is, in my view, great, especially for pizza. And you know, what’s special? Almost every single pizza tastes amazing. Every. Single. One! Dough is made right there. Cooked in these very hot ovens. And the result? So, the crust is both chewy and also perfectly charred.

I typically grab the classic Margherita or maybe, just maybe, their Calabrese. Also, it really seems they do loads of seasonal specials to kind of keep it new and fresh. Seating, you know, can get busy, like really, really busy. Particularly on Friday nights. So, I usually advise going at an off-peak time or just bracing yourself for a small, quick wait.

It might sound a little like hyperbole, yet Rudy’s almost guarantees an experience that you can take right to the bank. Tasty and reasonably priced? Absolutely! It really is just a great spot to meet up with pals, I find.

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3. Bundobust – Quite Indian Street Food

Now, fancy something a little less traditional? Bundobust kind of smashes up Indian street food with craft beer. And I really find myself gravitating back there. It is such a great idea. Bundobust, you know, almost always feels laid back. Sharing food, very informal, almost like a canteen style arrangement.

Dishes, almost all, come small so you can pig out and try nearly everything. Their vada pav. A spicy potato burger. And also, the okra fries, seem especially tasty and good. Also, the craft beer selection kind of changes all the time. Making pairings very, very easy, and you know, just as fun. That, if you’re into beer.

Bundobust is cool because that combination. Unique eats meets some seriously amazing beer selections. And yes, because of that very social atmosphere, Bundobust, it’s just perfect when meeting with mates.

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4. Mana – Quite the Experience

Okay, back to fine dining, and Mana just seems extra special, doesn’t it? You know, if you are wanting something really experiential. Food is, just in my humble opinion, elevated and presented in really interesting ways.

You almost always expect to be dining for hours. Courses? Like many. But each piece on a plate seems so very detailed. What you typically see? Odd foraged ingredients that really deliver very, very interesting textures.

It’s pretty pricey too. That, in fairness, is probably due to the really rare finds of some interesting courses. Bookings tend to open very far in advance, but should you nab one, I’m guessing that you will find something just a bit memorable with their stunning food and gorgeous settings.

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5. Mackie Mayor – Quite the Variety

Next up we have the Mackie Mayor, also sometimes known as a great market food hall. Basically, this kind of goes back to Manchester’s historical market spots, right in the Northern Quarter. I suppose I feel it’s more buzzy and great if you just like many choices.

Different stalls. From pizza, burritos, to, just maybe, artisanal coffee and craft beers. Plus, some small cafes and places to have, you know, a glass of wine. Seriously, it has it all. Plus, because everyone is eating together at communal tables, there is such a party vibe going on! Tables for seating? Often fill up really, really fast, especially during peak meal times.

Even if I can’t name every great thing to grab here, this just could be what’s very, very amazing should you want variety. Also, it feels typically Manchester, you know, busy and fun. And who doesn’t like busy and fun, I mean, seriously!

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