Viet Shack Manchester Arndale

There’s almost always a small crowd gathered around Viet Shack’s counter in the Arndale Food Market. Their menu of flavour-packed, fast Vietnamese street food is one of the biggest draws in this collection of globe-spanning takeaways. It’s a wonder all the other stall-holders haven’t diversified into summer rolls and Viet fries to cash in on the action. 

Favourite options include the chicken and rice coated in warm peanut sauce, and the healthy, super-fresh Saigon summer salad topped with chicken and chilli and lime dressing. The bahn mi (Vietnamese-style short baguettes stuffed with bbq chicken, beef or pork, fresh veg and herbs) make for a satisfying lunch-on-the-go.

The cooking is home-style – lots of fresh herbs and veggies, and minimal additives and processed ingredients. It’s a formula that also works a treat at Viet Shack’s restaurant on Ancoats Street on the edge of the NQ.

Back in the Arndale, there is cafeteria-style seating and window stools where you can watch the trams trundling down High Street as you spoon in your sticky rice. If you’re looking for good-quality cheap eats in the city centre, with the option to sit in if you want, Viet Shack is a sound choice.  

Want to be the first to receive all the latest news, tips, articles, guides and updates from Confidential Guides? Sign up here.