Manchester offers a vibrant and diverse food scene, and when it comes to Chinese cuisine, there are plenty of fantastic options that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re looking for authentic Cantonese flavours or a modern twist on traditional dishes, these restaurants stand out as the city’s best. Here’s a guide to some must-try spots for Chinese food in Manchester, complete with details on their ambience, specialities, and dishes you can’t miss.
Table of contents
1. Tattu
Source: Official Website
Tattu is one of Manchester’s most luxurious Chinese restaurants, offering a visually striking setting with modern interiors, including large pink cherry blossom trees that make it an Instagram favourite. Located in Spinningfields, this high-end restaurant combines traditional Chinese flavours with modern interpretations, focusing on beautifully plated dishes and a unique dining experience.
Tattu’s menu includes a range of specialities, with dishes like Singapore noodles, crispy chilli shredded beef, and lobster with ginger and spring onions. The flavours are bold and refined, and the presentation is as much a part of the experience as the taste. They also offer a wide selection of cocktails, carefully curated to complement the Asian flavours in their dishes. The atmosphere is vibrant and sophisticated, perfect for both intimate dinners and special occasions. To make the special occasions more special you can explore the tops museums in Manchester as well.
| Dish | Description |
| Crispy Chilli Shredded Beef | Sweet, spicy, and crispy, this dish is a favourite among diners. |
| Baked Lobster with Ginger | A flavourful lobster dish cooked with aromatic ginger. |
| Singapore Noodles | Spicy stir-fried noodles with prawns, chicken, and vegetables. |
| Short Ribs | Tender, flavourful ribs with a rich, tangy sauce. |
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2. Sweet Mandarin
Source: Gluten Free Chinese
Sweet Mandarin, nestled in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter, is a family-run gem known for its homely atmosphere and high-quality food. The restaurant is celebrated for offering authentic Cantonese and Sichuan flavours with a contemporary twist. Sweet Mandarin is often hailed as the place where you can experience real Chinese comfort food, and it has earned recognition for its strong commitment to high-quality ingredients.
Their signature dishes include crispy duck, aromatic beef, and a variety of stir-fries, all made from family recipes passed down for generations. Sweet Mandarin also has an excellent selection of dim sum, perfect for sharing with friends or family. The ambience is warm and inviting, with traditional Chinese decor mingled with modern touches, creating a cosy but chic environment.
| Dish | Description |
| Sweet Mandarin Chicken | A signature dish with a rich, sweet, and spicy glaze. |
| Crispy Aromatic Duck | Perfectly crispy and served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. |
| Dim Sum Platter | A variety of traditional dim sum, perfect for sharing. |
| Stir-fried Beef with Chilli | Tender beef stir-fried with fresh chilli for a spicy kick. |
3. Wing’s Restaurant
Source: Pexels
Located in the fashionable Spinningfields district, Wing’s Restaurant combines luxury with authenticity, offering a high-end Chinese dining experience that focuses on banqueting and set menus designed for groups. This restaurant is renowned for its lavish interior, complete with marble and brass accents, which creates a chic and modern atmosphere that matches the quality of the food. Enjoy a memorable walk in the serene parks of Manchester after your meal located close to the restaurant.
Wing’s specialises in elevated Chinese dishes, including a fantastic selection of dim sum, seafood, and meats. Their signature dishes include baked lobster with ginger, crispy shredded beef, and Cantonese-style duck. Wing’s is the perfect place for an indulgent feast, offering a setting that’s ideal for celebrating special occasions or impressing guests with both its food and its ambience.
| Dish | Description |
| Baked Lobster with Ginger | Lobster served with a delicate ginger sauce. |
| Cantonese-style Roast Duck | Tender, perfectly roasted duck with a crispy skin. |
| Crispy Shredded Beef | A sweet and spicy dish with crispy beef strips. |
| Salt and Pepper Squid | Lightly battered squid with a spicy and savoury coating. |
4. Little Yang Sing
Source: Official Website
A staple in Manchester’s Chinatown, Little Yang Sing is known for its traditional Cantonese cuisine and its extensive dim sum offerings. The restaurant has a warm, inviting atmosphere, with red decor and traditional Chinese clay statues adorning the space. Little Yang Sing is a favourite for both locals and tourists, especially for those who are looking to experience classic Cantonese dishes in a relaxed yet elegant setting.
The menu here features a wide variety of dim sum, as well as roasted meats and noodle dishes. Little Yang Sing is particularly known for its exceptional Peking duck and its variety of noodle-based dishes. The restaurant is perfect for families or large groups, especially those looking to enjoy a traditional Chinese banquet.
| Dish | Description |
| Peking Duck | A rich, crispy duck served with pancakes and hoisin sauce. |
| Dim Sum Platter | An assortment of bite-sized dumplings and steamed buns. |
| Beef Chow Mein | Stir-fried noodles with tender beef and vegetables. |
| Roast Pork with Crackling | Deliciously tender roast pork with crispy crackling. |
5. Pinwei
Source: Official Website
For those looking for a contemporary Chinese dining experience in the heart of Manchester’s Chinatown, Pinwei offers just that. With modern decor and a menu that blends traditional dishes with innovative twists, Pinwei creates a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant is known for its high-quality ingredients and the meticulous preparation of its dishes, making it a popular spot for food enthusiasts seeking something special.
Pinwei’s menu offers a wide range of options, from roast duck to stir-fries, as well as a variety of dim sum and seafood dishes. The restaurant excels in flavour combinations and presentation, often using modern techniques to elevate classic Chinese dishes. Whether you’re dining for lunch or dinner, Pinwei provides a memorable dining experience that balances tradition and innovation.
| Dish | Description |
| Beijing Roast Duck | A rich, flavourful duck with crispy skin and tender meat. |
| Pinwei Chicken | A signature dish with unique spices and flavours. |
| Steamed Dim Sum | A selection of handmade dim sum is ideal for sharing. |
| Stir-fried Lobster with Ginger | A seafood dish with a delicate and aromatic ginger sauce. |
Also Read: Grab your favourite food in the morning from these breakfast restaurants in Manchester.
6. The Rice Bowl
Source: Pexels
The Rice Bowl is one of Manchester’s oldest Chinese restaurants, with a history dating back to the 1960s. Located in the heart of the city centre, this family-run establishment offers a traditional Cantonese dining experience. It is a favourite among locals and tourists alike for its vast selection of classic Chinese dishes. The restaurant’s subterranean dining area is spacious and ideal for both intimate meals and large groups, offering a cosy and relaxed atmosphere.
The Rice Bowl specializes in Cantonese-style dim sum, roast meats, and hearty stir-fries. Its famous dim sum is a standout, with items like steamed dumplings and crispy spring rolls. The restaurant is also known for its delectable Peking duck and seafood dishes. The vintage charm and old-school service add to the nostalgic feel, making it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions.
| Dish | Description |
| Dim Sum Platter | A delightful assortment of dumplings and buns. |
| Peking Duck | Classic duck served with pancakes, hoisins, and vegetables. |
| Sweet and Sour Chicken | A tangy and crispy favourite served with a delicious sauce. |
| Stir-fried Beef with Black Pepper | Tender beef stir-fried with a peppery, savoury sauce. |
7. Pacifica Cantonese
Source: Official Website
Located just outside Manchester city centre in Eccles, Pacifica Cantonese is a contemporary restaurant that brings a modern flair to classic Cantonese cuisine. The sleek interior with chic lighting and a rooftop bar adds to the dining experience, making it a great option for a night out. Pacifica Cantonese is particularly popular for its elegant presentation and wide variety of dishes, offering both traditional Cantonese favourites and more innovative options.
The menu of this aesthetic restaurant in Manchester includes a wide selection of dim sum, seafood, and meat dishes. One of the highlights is the bottomless buffet offered on Sundays, a great way to sample a variety of dishes. The seafood offerings, including lobster and crab, are particularly notable, as well as their classic Cantonese-style roast duck. The fusion of modern design and traditional flavours makes this a unique dining experience.
| Dish | Description |
| Cantonese Roast Duck | A flavourful, tender duck with crispy skin. |
| Dim Sum Platter | A mix of dumplings, buns, and other dim sum favourites. |
| Seafood Hot Pot | A fragrant, spicy hot pot with fresh seafood. |
| Salt and Pepper Squid | Lightly battered squid with a bold, peppery kick. |
8. WowYauChow
Source: Pexels
WowYauChow is one of the best Asian restaurants in Manchester with locations in both Swinton and Altrincham. Known for putting a British twist on classic Chinese street food, WowYauChow offers a relaxed dining experience with modern, Instagram-worthy dishes. The restaurant’s creative approach to Chinese cuisine includes dishes like crispy duck nachos and bao buns inspired by the McDonald’s Filet-o-Fish sandwich.
The focus at WowYauChow is on comfort food, with a playful take on traditional Chinese flavours. They offer a bottomless brunch on weekends, which is a huge hit, with a variety of bao buns, ‘salt n pepper’ dishes, and cocktails included. The menu also features a build-your-own food basket, allowing diners to select their favourite dishes and create a personalized meal. The fun atmosphere and innovative menu make WowYauChow a popular choice for a casual yet unique Chinese meal.
| Dish | Description |
| Bao Buns | Soft buns filled with unique ingredients and flavours. |
| Crispy Duck Nachos | A creative fusion dish combining duck with nacho toppings. |
| Salt and Pepper Fries | Crispy fries with a bold, spicy coating. |
| Sweet and Sour Chicken | A twist on the classic, crispy and tangy chicken dish. |
9. Yum Cha
Source: Confidentials
Yum Cha is a modern Chinese restaurant that specialises in dim sum and traditional Cantonese dishes. Located in the Kampus area, this trendy spot has become a favourite for dim sum lovers, offering a wide variety of handmade dumplings and small plates. The menu of this posh restaurant in Manchester features classic Cantonese offerings such as char siu bao (BBQ pork buns) and firecracker prawns, alongside larger plates like sweet and sour chicken and dan dan noodles.
One of the standout features of Yum Cha is that it serves dim sum all day, making it an ideal choice for brunch, lunch, or dinner. The vibrant and relaxed atmosphere makes it perfect for a quick bite or a longer, leisurely meal. Yum Cha also boasts a unique selection of cocktails that pair perfectly with its dishes.
| Dish | Description |
| Char Siu Bao | Sweet and savoury BBQ pork-filled steamed buns. |
| Dum Sum Platter | A variety of bite-sized dumplings and steamed buns. |
| Firecracker Prawns | Prawns in a spicy, tangy sauce for an extra kick. |
| Dan Dan Noodles | Spicy noodles with a savoury, nutty sauce. |
10. Hello Oriental
Source: Pexels
Located on Oxford Road beneath Symphony Park, Hello Oriental is a vibrant food hall that brings a whole new level of dining to Manchester. This multi-story venue features not only a Chinese restaurant but also an Asian-inspired bakery, a Vietnamese restaurant, and a Chinese supermarket. The Downtown Oriental food court is the heart of the venue, offering a fast-paced kitchen where diners can enjoy everything from Chinese roasts to dim sum, bao, noodles, and seafood.
The wide variety of food available here makes it a great spot for anyone looking to sample different Asian cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite or a more leisurely meal, Hello Oriental offers something for everyone. The food hall atmosphere is lively and perfect for casual dining, with a diverse crowd enjoying freshly prepared, flavourful dishes.
| Dish | Description |
| Chinese Roasts | A selection of roasted meats, including duck and pork. |
| Dim Sum | Bite-sized dumplings and buns are perfect for sharing. |
| Noodles and Fried Rice | A variety of noodle and rice dishes, both savoury and satisfying. |
| Bao Buns | Soft, flavourful buns filled with meats or vegetables. |
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In conclusion, Manchester’s Chinese dining scene offers a delightful blend of traditional flavours and modern innovations, with something for every type of diner. From the high-end sophistication of Tattu to the nostalgic comfort of Little Yang Sing, each restaurant brings its own unique take on Chinese cuisine, showcasing both time-honoured classics and inventive twists on familiar dishes. Whether you’re craving crispy Peking duck, hand-made dim sum, or an indulgent bottomless brunch, these restaurants guarantee a memorable dining experience.
So, the next time you’re in Manchester, be sure to explore the diverse and delicious options that await in the city’s thriving Chinese food scene. Enjoy the culinary journey—your taste buds will thank you! For booking the best student accommodation abroad to start your study abroad experience you can contact Fly Homes at 1800572118.
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FAQs
For great dim sum, Yum Cha is a standout with its all-day dim sum offerings, and Little Yang Sing in Chinatown is famous for its extensive dim sum menu and Cantonese specialities.
Little Yang Sing and Wing’s Restaurant are both known for their exceptional Peking duck, offering tender, flavourful meat with crispy skin, served traditionally with pancakes and hoisin sauce.
The Rice Bowl is renowned for its authentic Cantonese dishes, including roasted meats and stir-fries. Pacifica Cantonese, located in Eccles, also provides a modern take on traditional Cantonese cuisine.
Tattu, with its luxurious decor and innovative Chinese dishes, is perfect for special occasions. Wing’s Restaurant, known for its elegant ambience and upscale menu, is another great option for celebrating.
Yes! WowYauChow offers the first Chinese bottomless brunch in Manchester, featuring endless bao buns, cocktails, and a variety of Chinese-inspired dishes in a fun, relaxed setting.
Hello Oriental offers a street food experience with a variety of stalls serving Chinese roasts, baos, dim sum, and noodles, all in a casual, bustling food hall environment.
Pacifica Cantonese and Wing’s Restaurant are both excellent for seafood lovers, offering dishes like lobster and crab prepared with Chinese-inspired flavours in a refined dining setting.
Yes, many restaurants offer vegan and vegetarian options. Yum Cha features a variety of vegetable dim sum, and both The Rice Bowl and Pinwei offer extensive vegetarian dishes such as tofu-based stir-fries and vegetable dumplings.
Little Yang Sing and Hello Oriental are great choices for a quick yet satisfying Chinese meal. Both offer fast service with a wide range of dishes, from noodle soups to stir-fries.
Wing’s Restaurant and The Rice Bowl offer traditional Chinese banquet-style menus, perfect for large groups or special occasions, featuring a selection of dishes like Peking duck, dim sum, and stir-fries.
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