Manchester’s vibrant dining scene continues to evolve, offering a dynamic blend of culinary experiences for every taste. From fine dining establishments that push the boundaries of gourmet cuisine to casual eateries serving up fresh takes on comfort food, the city has become a haven for food lovers. As we look ahead to 2024, a new wave of restaurants has opened, each bringing something unique to the table. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavours or adventurous dishes, here are some of the most exciting new spots to check out in Manchester.
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1. Skof (NOMA)
Source: Official Website
Skof, located in the vibrant NOMA district, is a fine dining destination that promises a fresh perspective on tasting menus. Created by Michelin-starred chef Tom Barnes, who previously worked at Rogan & Co. and L’Enclume, Skof takes a more relaxed yet refined approach to contemporary British cuisine. The ambience is elegant and modern, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and a menu that pushes boundaries with creative pairings and techniques.
Skof offers a dynamic dining experience, featuring dishes that change with the seasons. Their tasting menus are the centrepiece, offering guests a journey through expertly crafted plates that blend innovation with tradition. You’ll experience dishes like fire-roasted sea trout and chermoula chicken, all beautifully presented. Each plate is designed to highlight the natural flavours of the ingredients, allowing for a memorable gastronomic journey.
Must-try dishes at Skof include their signature seared scallops with spiced pineapple carpaccio and a cured ham crumb, and for dessert, don’t miss their stunning creations using local fruits. The wine pairings are thoughtfully selected to complement each dish, ensuring a complete dining experience.
| Dish | Description |
| Seared Scallops | With spiced pineapple carpaccio and cured ham |
| Fire-roasted Sea Trout | Flavoured with seasonal herbs and spices |
| Chermoula Chicken | Served with yoghurt labneh and spices |
Also Read: If you want to have some Spanish food, make sure to check out these tapas restaurants in Manchester.
2. Tender (Stock Exchange Hotel)
Source: Official Website
Tender, located inside the iconic Stock Exchange Hotel, is the latest venture from chef Niall Keating, who already boasts Michelin star credentials. The restaurant focuses on accessible gourmet cuisine, offering a range of dishes from tasting menus to Sunday roasts and a la carte options. The setting is luxurious yet inviting, with a contemporary design that blends modern elegance with historic charm.
The concept behind Tender is to provide exceptional quality food while ensuring the atmosphere remains relaxed and comfortable for all guests. Keating’s experience shines through in every dish, whether it’s the rib of beef with blue cheese, bone marrow, tallow chips, or the indulgent jam-cinnamon roll pudding served with crème anglaise. Each meal is thoughtfully prepared, with careful attention to flavour balance and presentation.
Must-try dishes include the aforementioned rib of beef, as well as their inventive afternoon tea offerings. For dessert, the jam-cinnamon roll pudding is a perfect blend of nostalgia and a gourmet twist.
| Dish | Description |
| Rib of Beef with Blue Cheese | Served with bone marrow and tallow chips |
| Jam-Cinnamon Roll Pudding | Accompanied by crème anglaise |
| Afternoon Tea | A modern take on classic British flavours |
3. Onda Pasta Bar (Circle Square)
Source: Official Website
Onda Pasta Bar has quickly become a favourite for those seeking high-quality, fresh pasta in Manchester. Located in Circle Square, this restaurant brings an exciting twist to traditional Italian dishes, thanks to Michelin-trained chef Sam Astley-Dean. The ambience is casual yet stylish, with a focus on creating an inviting atmosphere where guests can enjoy food prepared with passion and precision. It is one of the best gluten-free restaurants in Manchester and you can ask for little tweaks in your food as well.
Their menu is built around fresh, house-made pasta, with dishes such as scallop and crab cappelletti and beef shin ragu taking centre stage. Onda is also known for its viral tiramisu drawer, where guests can enjoy this classic dessert served directly from a drawer, creating an interactive and fun dining experience. The pizzas, like the garlic, parsley, and mozzarella pizzetta, are another standout, with a super-risen crust and generous amounts of parmesan.
Must-try dishes include the tiramisu, of course, but the fresh pasta dishes are the real stars, showcasing the chef’s skill in balancing flavours and textures. Also, it is one of the best Italian restaurants in Manchester.
| Dish | Description |
| Scallop and Crab Cappelletti | With rich, delicate sauces |
| Beef Shin Ragu | A hearty, comforting pasta dish |
| Tiramisu Drawer | A fun and interactive dessert |
4. Flat Iron (Deansgate)
Source: Official Website
Flat Iron brings its famous steak concept from London to Manchester’s Deansgate, making it a must-visit for meat lovers. Known for its high-quality steaks at affordable prices, Flat Iron is a place where you can enjoy delicious cuts of meat without breaking the bank. The décor is sleek and minimalistic, focusing on the quality of the food rather than the frills, creating a down-to-earth and casual dining experience.
The menu is simple but effective, offering just one type of steak: the flat iron. Cooked to perfection, this cut is known for its tenderness and rich flavour, making it the perfect option for steak enthusiasts. Flat Iron also offers sides like their famous dripping-cooked chips, salad, and a variety of sauces that complement the steak perfectly.
Must-try dishes at Flat Iron include the signature flat iron steak and their indulgent sides like dripping-cooked chips and creamed spinach.
| Dish | Description |
| Flat Iron Steak | Tender, flavourful cut of beef |
| Dripping-cooked Chips | Crispy, indulgent fries |
| Creamed Spinach | A rich, comforting side |
5. Cibo (King Street)
Source: Official Website
Cibo, a new Italian restaurant on King Street, brings a taste of high-end Italian dining to Manchester. The restaurant’s design is chic and sophisticated, with a touch of glamour that mirrors its upscale menu. The menu offers a mix of traditional Italian dishes with a modern twist, carefully crafted with the finest ingredients. Expect a luxurious atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion.
The menu at Cibo includes seared scallops with spiced pineapple carpaccio, veal cutlet, and lobster ravioli. Classic Italian comfort foods are reimagined, with fresh and flavorful ingredients elevating every dish. For pizza lovers, Cibo offers a delicious burrata-topped pizza, which is a must-try.
Must-try dishes at Cibo include the lobster ravioli and the veal cutlet, both of which showcase the restaurant’s dedication to fine ingredients and expert preparation.
| Dish | Description |
| Seared Scallops | Served with spiced pineapple carpaccio |
| Lobster Ravioli | A luxurious, flavorful pasta dish |
| Veal Cutlet | A tender, classic Italian dish |
6. Jaan by Another Hand (Peter Street)
Source: Confidentials
Jaan by Another Hand is a new culinary adventure in the heart of Manchester. This restaurant builds on the success of its sister location, Another Hand, with a focus on Persian bread and an innovative menu that highlights bold flavours and fresh ingredients. The décor is modern, yet cosy, creating an inviting environment for diners to explore new tastes and textures. One of the best things about this place is that it is among top vegetarian restaurants in Manchester.
Jaan’s menu features a variety of dishes that blend traditional Persian spices with contemporary cooking techniques. Standout dishes include Shetland mussels with za’atar and lemon crème fraiche, smoked aubergine with macadamia nuts, and a ras el hanout-spiced lamb dish. The flatbreads are a highlight, perfectly complementing the bold flavours in each dish.
Must-try dishes include the Shetland mussels and the ras el hanout-spiced lamb, both of which showcase the rich flavours of Persian cuisine.
| Dish | Description |
| Shetland Mussels | Served with za’atar and lemon crème fraiche |
| Smoked Aubergine | With macadamia nuts and wood sorrel |
| Ras El Hanout-Spiced Lamb | Served with cucumber labneh and chive |
Also Read: Grab your favourite food in the morning from these breakfast restaurants in Manchester.
7. Medlock Canteen (Deansgate Square)
Source: Official Website
Medlock Canteen brings a unique fusion of American diner classics and Parisian bistro flair to Manchester’s Deansgate Square. The vibrant, industrial-chic setting of this aesthetic restaurant in Manchester makes it a great spot for casual dining or a relaxed meal with friends. The menu is designed to be comforting yet sophisticated, with dishes that play on the nostalgia of American diners while introducing elements of French cuisine.
Signature dishes at Medlock Canteen include hearty burgers, chicken schnitzel, and classic French onion soup. The American diner-inspired pancakes and milkshakes are also popular among regulars.
Must-try dishes include the chicken schnitzel, which comes with a delightful twist, and the French onion soup for a cosy, rich experience.
| Dish | Description |
| Chicken Schnitzel | A crispy, flavorful take on a classic dish |
| French Onion Soup | A rich, comforting French classic |
| Pancakes and Milkshakes | A nod to American diner favourites |
8. Shipyard
Official Website: Pexels
Shipyard, located in the heart of Spinningfields, is an exciting new addition to the Manchester food scene. It’s a food hall concept that is part of the wider Enterprise City development, offering a range of different culinary options under one roof. With its open-plan design and modern, industrial décor, the Shipyard is perfect for those who want to sample a variety of dishes in a lively and social atmosphere.
From street food stalls to sit-down restaurants, Shipyard offers something for every taste. You can find everything from international street food to gourmet burgers, craft beers, and cocktails. The lively atmosphere is perfect for groups and casual dining.
Must-try dishes include gourmet burgers and craft beers, which are perfect for a casual meal out with friends.
| Dish | Description |
| Gourmet Burgers | Juicy, flavorful burgers with premium ingredients |
| Craft Beers | Locally sourced, unique craft beer options |
9. Royal Nawaab
Source: Pexels
Royal Nawaab is set to make a splash in Greater Manchester with its grand opening at the iconic Stockport Pyramid. This venue promises to offer an extraordinary dining experience, blending traditional Indian flavours with modern presentation. The massive space includes multiple banquet halls, a buffet area, and VIP rooms, making it an ideal venue for large events and family gatherings. Its high-end ambience is complemented by the opulence of the building, with its grand architecture and luxurious interiors.
As for the food, Royal Nawaab is renowned for its buffet-style service, where you can sample a wide range of North Indian and Mughlai dishes, all prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. Signature dishes include biryanis, kebabs, and an extensive range of curries such as the famous butter chicken and lamb rogan josh. The buffet is a great way to explore the diverse offerings, but the à la carte menu also features dishes like lamb shank and tandoori platters, which are definitely worth trying. If you’re after something sweet, their desserts—especially the gulab jamun and kulfi—are a perfect way to round off the meal.
Must-try dishes include the butter chicken and lamb rogan josh for their rich, comforting flavours, and the freshly made naan bread that is perfect for dipping into the curries.
| Dish | Description |
| Butter Chicken | Creamy, flavorful curry with tender chicken |
| Lamb Rogan Josh | Rich, spiced curry made with slow-cooked lamb |
| Tandoori Platter | Grilled meats served with fresh naan and chutneys |
10. Ottoman Bar and Grill
Source: Official Website
Ottoman Bar and Grill is an exciting new Turkish dining experience opening in Salford, bringing the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean to the city. Situated in the new Affinity Living Riverside complex, Ottoman features a sleek and modern design that complements its bold menu. It’s the perfect spot for those craving authentic Turkish cuisine, with a warm, inviting atmosphere ideal for both casual dining and special occasions.
The menu at Ottoman Bar and Grill offers an impressive selection of Turkish meats, grilled to perfection. Signature dishes include lamb kebabs, mixed grill platters, and fresh baklava for dessert. The lamb kebab is especially popular, offering succulent meat with a smoky char and a combination of spices that bring the flavours to life. For those with a sweet tooth, the baklava is a must-try, with its delicate layers of filo pastry and syrupy sweetness.
Must-try dishes at Ottoman include the lamb kebab and mixed grill platter, which give a great variety of flavours, and the baklava for a deliciously indulgent end to your meal.
| Dish | Description |
| Lamb Kebab | Juicy, tender lamb grilled with Turkish spices |
| Mixed Grill Platter | A variety of grilled meats served with traditional sides |
| Baklava | Flaky, syrupy dessert made with filo and pistachios |
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As Manchester’s food scene grows, so does the diversity of dining options available. From the sophisticated, high-end dishes at Skof to the casual, fun offerings at Onda Pasta Bar, these new restaurants showcase the city’s culinary creativity. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh, local ingredients or international flavours with a twist, these spots offer memorable meals that promise to elevate your dining experience. The city’s culinary future looks brighter than ever, and these new openings are just the beginning.
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FAQs
The new openings cover a wide range of cuisines, including British fine dining (Skof), Italian (Cibo), Turkish (Ottoman Bar and Grill), American diner-inspired (Medlock Canteen), and Persian-inspired dishes (Jaan by Another Hand).
These restaurants cater to both! Options like Skof and Tender are perfect for fine dining or celebrations, while places like Onda Pasta Bar and Flat Iron offer a relaxed, casual vibe.
Royal Nawaab, with its expansive buffet and banquet facilities, is ideal for large groups and events. Shipyard’s food hall format is also great for casual gatherings.
Yes, many of these restaurants offer vegetarian or vegan dishes. Jaan by Another Hand and Medlock Canteen, for example, provide creative plant-based options like smoked aubergine or vegan-friendly starters.
Highlights include Skof’s seared scallops, Flat Iron’s signature steak, and Ottoman’s lamb kebab. Don’t miss Onda’s viral tiramisu drawer or Royal Nawaab’s butter chicken.
Restaurants like Skof and Tender recommend reservations due to their high demand, while casual spots like Flat Iron and Onda Pasta Bar may accept walk-ins.
Most restaurants are family-friendly, but Royal Nawaab and Medlock Canteen particularly stand out for their accommodating environments.
The new openings span various locations in Manchester, such as NOMA (Skof), Deansgate (Flat Iron), Spinningfields (Shipyard), and Stockport Pyramid (Royal Nawaab).
Yes, Onda Pasta Bar’s interactive tiramisu drawer and Shipyard’s multi-concept food hall are examples of innovative dining experiences.
Prices vary widely: fine dining at Skof and Tender is on the higher end, while Flat Iron and Onda Pasta Bar offer more budget-friendly options. Shipyard’s diverse stalls provide flexibility for all budgets.
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