A restaurant that is good for ‘people-watching’ is not an easy thing to define. Because they’re not just fancy schmancy celeb-spotting spots – even been to a curry house in the early AMs? And what is ‘people-watching’ anyway? The observing of people, yes, but we do that all the time. Somewhere where you can go, alone, order some food, kick back and watch the world go by? Perfect. Somewhere you can go with mates and talk about people’s shoes? That works. Somewhere with lots of good-looking people to ogle? Yes. Somewhere full of weirdos? Even better.
Anyway, here’s our pick of Manchester’s best restaurants for people watching… for some reason or another.
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SpinningfieldsTattu Manchester
More detailsLocated in the heart of the Spinningfields business district, Tattu Manchester is an Instagrammer’s dream. Think penumbral lighting, body art-inspired cocktails and a full-size cherry blossom tree with hand-sewn silk petals. You’d be forgiven for expecting such opulent surroundings to outshine the food. Not so.
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Book Now Manchester City CentreSan Carlo Cicchetti
More detailsAs the first San Carlo Cicchetti, the Manchester restaurant had a lot to prove on opening in 2010. Over a decade and several awards later, it’s still going strong. Why? We think it’s attention to detail. Founder Carlo Distefano is a stickler for quality and you’ll find the same passion for produce and impeccable service at every San Carlo. Let’s just say it runs in the family.
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SpinningfieldsHawksmoor
More detailsThe best steakhouse in the North. Opening on Deansgate in 2015, the first Hawksmoor steakhouse outside of London is a confident affair. Well sourced steak and attention to detail have created a place like no other.
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Manchester City CentreEl Gato Negro Manchester
More detailsEl Gato Negro is an upmarket Manc-Spanish fusion restaurant that really, really works. Originally from Yorkshire, chef Simon Shaw has created an indulgent, three-storey church to his passion for the best in Spanish food and wine.
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Book Now Manchester City CentreThe Refuge
More detailsWinning small plate fusion in an iconic and glamorous setting. Housed in Manchester’s iconic The Refuge Assurance Company dating back to 1858, this DJ-run restaurant and bar is large and sassy.
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SpinningfieldsAustralasia
More detailsPacific Rim fusion fare for the fashion set. The undeniable theatre of the place, the approach of the staff and the craft of the food make any occasion feel like a million dollars at Australasia.
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Spinningfields20 Stories
More detailsManchester’s highest – and possibly finest – restaurant, bar and terrace. D&D London’s flagship Manchester restaurant, 20 Stories was the opening of 2018. Floor to ceiling windows (and a huge, outdoor terrace, the same size as the entire restaurant floor), afford breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside, while the menu offers modern British, seasonal dishes.
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Book Now DidsburyVolta
More detailsVolta is owned by Luke ‘Unabomber’ Cowdrey and Justin Crawford – the DJ-restauranteur duo behind Chorlton’s Electrik bar, the Electrik Chair club night, and Refuge by Volta in Manchester city centre’s Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
