Phetpailin

Phetpailin is one of Manchester’s best Thai restaurants if you want classic dishes and all the buzz of Chinatown. Unusually for a city centre restaurant, it’s BYOB so it’s also a bit of a bargain.

The set menus are handy for groups but the more exciting dishes lie elsewhere. Overall, the food offering is low on noodle dishes and has much more in the way of curries and wok-fried favourites. Seafood is a particular strength.

Confidential Guides recommends the crispy sea bass with mango salad if you like things fresh but fiery, and also moo yang, a marinated pork dish for those who prefer a milder meal.

The food at Phetpailin is full of crowd pleasers – combined with the lively atmosphere, it makes a good choice for birthdays or group nights out.