Pollen Bakery

After an initial stint tucked away in an archway near Piccadilly, this airy bakery and cafe moved to a spot overlooking New Islington’s marina. Since then Pollen Bakery has bagged Best Food and Drink Retailer at the Manchester Food and Drink Awards, and been listed in the Sunday Times top 20 UK bakeries.

Their characterful sourdough and indulgent pastries have had people queuing up from almost the moment they opened their doors. Everyone raves about the cruffin (a croissant-muffin hybrid with a gooey filling which changes weekly – think blackberry and crème fraîche, or lemon and elderflower). They do all sorts of creative sweet and savoury pastries, and the signature mahogany crust on their sourdough gives it that distinctive chew-factor. Top all that with fabulous brunch and lunch dishes and great coffee and you can see why they are amassing all those awards. Did we mention they do croissant toast?

Check out their second venue at Kampus near Piccadilly Station if you’re in the area.