7 restaurants and bars that have just landed on Confidential Guides

With a gentle gradient throughout and a lowered bar, 53two is one of Manchester’s most inclusive and accessible venues. Half bar and cafe, half performance area, this unique space under Manchester’s Grade II* listed railway arches is the perfect stop for a drink and a snack before hitting the town or the local theatres – including the one in-house.

Armenian is a Manchester institution and – recent cosmetic makeover aside – little has changed since it opened over half a century ago, with a wealth of authentic small and large plates offering as much for the veggie as the meat-lover.

Barrio bar and kitchen brings Mexican and a bit more to Chorlton’s foodie “barrio” (quarter) Beech Road, using locally sourced produce (Frosty meat; small-batch soy-free chickpea Tohu from Fu Fighters) and offering a secret south-facing suntrap garden out back to boot.

With its plush velvet chairs and cushions and pink and green hues du jour, Colleen’s cuts a smart jib on Rammy’s main drag, and the locally sourced ingredients and menus created alongside the seasons adds to the contemporary feel of this neighbourhood restaurant.

SUD Pasta is a must-visit restaurant in Manchester. Since opening their first pasta kitchen in 2015, they’ve taken the city and suburbs by storm.

With restaurants in Altrincham, Ancoats and now Sale, they’re a firm favourite amongst locals and visitors alike.

Finding itself resting in the top 10 of the top 50 cocktail bars in the whole of the UK, Speaking In Code – SiC to his friends – makes everything in house and is passionate about flavour exploration, hospitality, oh, and hip hop, which inspires the drinks menu.

The Three Fishes at Mitton is in the heart of the beautiful Ribble Valley in Lancashire. Expect an immaculate whitewashed listed building, a cross between an Inn and a country pub, a welcoming bar and an original slate floor all warmed by open log fires.