What are your essential components for the perfect Sunday lunch? Do you turn your nose up at anything other than a huge slab of beef? Or are you all about roast pork with that crunchy, chewy crackling? Maybe a lemony, buttery roast chicken is the only one for you. There are some exceptional vegetarian contenders these days too, an earthy wild mushroom wellington is a favourite.
The trimmings, of course, are of paramount importance: the crispiest of roast potatoes, gooey and indulgent cauliflower cheese, Mancunian-style red cabbage braised in Vimto, gargantuan Yorkshire puds, ‘schweins’ in blankets and, quite possibly the most important component, a damn fine gravy all feature on our dream Sunday plates (and cause impassioned arguments in the Confidentials office). Or how about going one step further with a gigantic slow roast prime rib for 2-3 to share? All of the places on this list are doing something special with their Sunday dinner offerings, we’re hungry just thinking about it.
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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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Book Now Manchester City CentreJames Martin
More detailsA fine-dining restaurant inside a casino with a celeb chef name above the door? Alarm bells. Yes, James Martin has his name across the massive billboard outside, but this is not an ostentatious venue.
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Book Now DidsburyHispi
More detailsHispi is, quite simply, a great bistro. Fifth in a growing chain of restaurants conceived by Gary Usher, the concept started with Sticky Walnut in Chester (see also Top 100), a neighbourhood operation which made its name off the back of great, simple food, quaffable wine served in beakers, and excellent quality produce. Expect chunky British dishes – such as chicken liver pate and braised featherblade – made with fresh ingredients and great results.
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Manchester City CentreAlbert’s Schloss
More detailsAlbert’s Schloss is a Bavarian-inspired fun palace of extraordinary dimensions and clever design. Behind the glistening tiles of the former Manchester and Salford Wesleyan Mission building (est in 1910) you’ll discover a vast bar, real fires, perfectly preserved original plaster, and a wall stuffed generously with flowers by floral artists’ Frog. You’ll also find a stage, DJ booth and network of beer pipes and tanks serving unpasturised Pilsner Urquell to hordes of adoring punters.
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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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Book Now LydgateThe White Hart at Lydgate
More detailsThe White Hart at Lydgate is a rustic dining pub with an excellent reputation and wine list. Located 700 feet above sea level, where Saddleworth Moor starts, the restaurant is in an impressive former coaching house, and it’s a place for all: there’s a restaurant and brasserie with two AA rosettes, a pub, function areas and a boutique hotel.
