Mancunian Christmas Gifts.
This Christmas season, why not celebrate Manchester’s creative, vibrant spirit with gifts that echo the city’s unique culture and style. Here’s a list of a few of our favourite Mancunian-inspired Christmas gifts perfect for fans of the city, whether they live here or simply hold Manchester close to their heart.
1. Manchester Inspired Jewellery and Crafts
Hiding at the far end of the Northern Quarter is the Manchester Craft and Design Centre. We pop in on our food tours as we explore the area and there’s no better time of year to visit than Christmas.
The centre houses 20 different studios for local artists and craftsmen to make and sell their wares. There’s regular exhibitions held and just recently our friend Fred opened his café Fred’s, in the middle of the building.
So if you have anyone in your life that has a love for unique jewellery or distinctive pieces of local art, this is where you need to shop. And get yourself some great lunch while you’re there.
Where to find it: Manchester Craft and Design Centre is at 17 Oak Street, M4 5JD. In the old Smithfield market fish market hall.
2. Manchester Craft Beer Subscription
Manchester has quickly become a craft beer mecca, with breweries like Cloudwater, Track, and Marble making waves nationwide. A craft beer subscription from a Manchester-based brewery is a fantastic gift for beer enthusiasts. With monthly or quarterly deliveries, they’ll enjoy exclusive, small-batch brews, limited-edition flavors, and classics that capture the unique taste of Manchester. Many subscriptions include tasting notes and pairing ideas, turning every delivery into a mini beer-tasting experience.
Where to find it: Check out the websistes Cloudwater Brew Co. and Seven Bro7hers Brewing Co. for subscription options. Seven brothers even do a beer advent calendar.
3. Manchester Doodle Maps:
If you’ve been on one of our food tours then you’ll have seen a bottle of Salford Rum. On the front of the bottle is a doodle drawing by an artist called Dave Draws. His doodles have become synonymous with the city, appearing in barber shops, high streets and restaurants throughout the region. They’re really unique and every doodle drawing tells a story.
Where to find it: Head to Dave’s website www.davedraws.co.uk
4. Voucher for a Manchester Bites Food Tour
Give the gift of a local adventure with a voucher for one of our Manchester Bites food tour. This is a memorable gift for foodies who want to explore the city through its independent food scene. Our tours offer tastes from some of the best eateries in town, guided by our brilliant team of locals who share stories of Manchester’s history and culture. From artisanal cheeses to traditional pies and global street food, it’s a perfect gift for anyone who loves discovering new flavours while exploring the city.
There’s our award-winning Canals to Canapes tour, our evening tour and now even a tour of Stockport to choose from. All come with a glass or two of wine (depending on the tour you choose)
Vouchers last for the entirety of 2025.
Where to find it: www.manchesterbites.com and pick which tour you’d like to gift.
Hidden foodie gems in Manchester that you won’t find on the tourist map.
When it comes to food, Manchester has evolved into one of the UK’s most exciting culinary destinations. While you might already know about its buzzing Northern Quarter or the famous Chinatown, Manchester has a wealth of hidden foodie gems just waiting to be discovered. At Manchester Bites, we take pride in showcasing the city’s lesser-known, independent vendors that bring Manchester’s food scene to life.
Hidden Gems off the tourist map.
One of the beauties of Manchester is that there are always new and exciting places to eat popping up. Here’s a few of our favourites to whet your appetite.
- Fat Pat’s Sandwich shop: 88 Portland Street
Located in a back alley in Chinatown, Fat Pat’s is legendary amongst those living and wokring in the city. Every day they freshly bake 10 inch milk rolls for their sandwiches. Fillings such as hot honey fried chicken and philly cheesesteak keep the regulars coming back. You need to pre-order on their website https://www.fatpats.co.uk/ and then join the waiting crowd until your numbers called. The main picture is of the small window that your HUGE sandwich will be passed to you through. It is well worth it though. In a city that has some incredible sandwich options we reckon that Fat Pat’s is hard to beat. - Que Hong Viet: 78 Oldham Road
You’ll need to walk a bit out of town to find one of our favourite Asian spots. Que Hong is on the main Oldham road just opposite Wing Yip Asian supermarket. As well as a small deli, Que Hong serves up some of the city’s best Vietnamese dishes. From steaming bowls of pho to freshly prepared spring rolls. It’s a no frills gaff that some of our guides love to pop into after a busy tour. Full of the local Asian community which is always a good sign of authentic flavours. - Pollen Bakery: New Islington Marina
Hidden just outside the city center in a small industrial space near New Islington Marina, Pollen Bakery is a must-visit for pastry lovers. Known for their expertly crafted croissants, seasonal cakes, and tarts, Pollen is a bit off the beaten track but absolutely worth the journey. Be sure to arrive early to avoid disappointment as their baked goods often sell out! - The Sparrows: 16 Redbank
Tucked away in an industrial corner of Green Quarter, The Sparrows serves European dumplings and pasta dishes that blend tradition with modern flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for German spätzle, Italian gnocchi, or Polish pierogi, The Sparrows brings unique comfort food to Manchester’s food scene. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like you’ve discovered something special. - Café Beermoth: Manchester’s Hidden Beer Café on Brown Street
For those who enjoy pairing their food with a quality brew, Café Beermoth is a hidden gem that will steal your heart. Located down a narrow alley in the city centre, this café specializes in craft beers from around the world. You can pair your drink with a selection of small plates and snacks, perfect for an afternoon break or a laid-back evening with friends. - Kargo MKT: Lowry Outlet. Salford Quays
You’ll need to jump on the tram for this one. Head out to Media city and in the Lowry outlet building you’ll find Kargo MKT. It’s a collection of independent food vendors, very similar to Mackie Mayor or other such foodie markets. However, the vendors at Kargo are above and beyond. Perhaps it’s because they need to draw a few hungry souls from the city centre so they want to make it worth the journey. Baity Palestinian food can be found here. Their lamb, needs to be tried to be believed. House of Habesha is just next door where you’ll be able to try some of Manchester’s best African inspired food.
This should give you something to go on for now. There’s so many other places we could talk all day about.
Do you have a faovurite spot that we should include? One of the things we love at Manchester Bites is getting recommendations for places to explore. So please let us know.
Explore More with Manchester Bites
At Manchester Bites, we believe the best way to experience a city’s food culture is through its independent vendors and local favorites. Our food tours are designed to introduce you to these hidden gems, giving you a taste of Manchester’s authentic, evolving culinary landscape. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, there’s always something new to discover.
Ready to uncover the hidden foodie gems of Manchester? Join us on a tour and let our local guides show you the city’s best-kept secrets—one bite at a time!
Best Daytrips from Manchester
Many guests on our food tours ask us about the best daytrips from Manchester. We’re very lucky with our central location and good transport links. Here’s 3 suggestions for daytrips from Manchester.
The Roman City of Chester
Chester, a city brimming with history dating back to Roman times ia about an hours drive from Manchester.
Start with a visit to the ancient city walls, which are the most complete Roman and medieval city walls in Britain. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the walls, offering fantastic views of the city and the River Dee.
The Chester Roman Amphitheatre is the largest of its kind in Britain. You can easily envision gladiatorial contests and Roman entertainment taking place here. (word of warning, you might get caught up in one of the many school trips that we all did as kids here)
Nearby, visit the Chester Cathedral, a stunning example of medieval architecture with beautiful gardens and a tranquil cloister.
After lunch, take a relaxing stroll along the River Dee. You might even opt for a scenic boat cruise to see more of Chester’s picturesque riverside. Then, explore Grosvenor Park, a beautifully landscaped Victorian park perfect for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment amidst nature.
If your visit coincides with a race evening in the summer, end your day at Chester Racecourse, the oldest racecourse still in operation in the world.
The Scenic Beauty of the Peak District
The Peak District National Park, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, is just a short journey from Manchester.
Enjoy a leisurly hike to one of the area’s iconic viewpoints, such as Mam Tor or Kinder Scout. These trails offer breathtaking views of rolling hills, rugged moorlands, and picturesque valleys.
Bakewell
After a morning of hiking, head to the charming market town of Bakewell, famous for its Bakewell Pudding. Wander through its quaint streets, visit the local shops, and enjoy a hearty lunch at one of the traditional pubs or cafes. Don’t forget to sample the town’s namesake dessert!
Chatsworth House
Spend your afternoon exploring Chatsworth House, one of England’s most magnificent stately homes. Tour the opulent interiors, admire the extensive art collection, and wander through the beautiful gardens and parkland. Chatsworth’s grandeur and history make it a highlight of any trip to the Peak District
The Vibrant City of Liverpool
A 40 minute journey is all you need to explore another North West city in Liverpool.
Albert Dock and Maritime Heritage
The historic Albert Dock, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum to learn about the city’s maritime history, including its role in the transatlantic slave trade and the story of the Titanic.
The Beatles Story
Next, dive into Liverpool’s musical heritage at The Beatles Story museum. This engaging exhibit takes you on a journey through the lives and careers of the Fab Four.
Liverpool Cathedrals
In the afternoon, visit Liverpool Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Britain. Its impressive Gothic architecture and stunning views from the tower are not to be missed. .You can read more about Liverpool’s two cathedrals in our Liverpool Bites blog here; https://liverpoolbites.com/liverpool-cathedrals/
Food Tour
Join one of our small group food tours of Liverpool. Led by a local guide you’ll be shown some of the city’s best independent food traders. We don’t cncentrate on the tourist areas. Instead we focus on places locals love. Full of history, and cool stories about the city. You can book your places here; https://liverpoolbites.com/our-tours/docks-to-dining-the-liverpool-food-tour/
Manchester’s central location makes it an excellent starting point for day trips that showcase the best of Northern England. From the historical charm of Chester to the natural beauty of the Peak District and the vibrant culture of Liverpool, each destination offers a unique and memorable experience. And all within an hours drive from the city centre.
What to do in Manchester this summer.
After whar seems like the longest of winters, summer is finally here in Manchester.
We aren’t famed for our great weather but when we do get the sunshine theres no better city in the world to spend time in.
From cricket matches at Old Trafford to music festivals in Heaton Park, the city has a real excitment and buzz to it when the sun comes out.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s an abundance of activities and attractions to keep you entertained under the warm British sun. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of Manchester in the summer.
Explore the Northern Quarter
Begin your Manchester summer adventure in the Northern Quarter, the city’s hipster haven. This area is renowned for its bohemian atmosphere, independent shops, quirky cafes, and vibrant street art. Wander around the narrow streets and alleys to discover hidden gems like vintage boutiques, record stores, and art galleries. Don’t miss Afflecks, espoecially our friends at Gingers comfort emporium for some of the best ice cream on the planet. The perfect way to cool off.
A good spot to sit and watch the world go by is Stevenson square where as soon as the sun comes out, so do the chairs and tables of the surrounding bars. Get their early to bag your seats.
Visit Manchester’s Parks and Green Spaces
Manchester boasts numerous parks and green spaces perfect for a summer day out. Heaton Park, one of the largest municipal parks in Europe, offers beautiful gardens, a boating lake, an animal center, and historic buildings like Heaton Hall. For a more central location, head to Whitworth Park and the adjacent Whitworth Art Gallery, where you can enjoy contemporary art exhibitions amidst serene surroundings.
Enjoy the Canal Cruises
Experience Manchester from a different perspective by taking a canal cruise. The city’s waterways are a testament to its industrial past, and a leisurely boat trip along the Rochdale Canal or Bridgewater Canal offers a relaxing way to see the sights. Companies like Manchester River Cruises provide guided tours that highlight the city’s history and landmarks, making for an informative and scenic journey.
Attend a Festival
Summer in Manchester means festival season. The city hosts a variety of events celebrating music, food, culture, and more. For music lovers, Parklife Festival at Heaton Park features top international acts across multiple genres. New Order are playing Wythenshawe park this August in what promises to be one of the biggest nights in the city this year. There’s the sounds of the city festival at Castlefield bowl and a variety of smaller more intimate events taking place across the city throughout the summer.
Discover the History and Culture
It will rain at some point, so when it does dive into Manchester’s rich history by visiting its renowned museums and galleries. The Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) is a must-see, offering interactive exhibits that explore the city’s role in the Industrial Revolution. The People’s History Museum provides insights into Britain’s social history, focusing on the labor movement and democracy. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Manchester Art Gallery, home to an impressive collection of British and European art.
Picnic at Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden
For a tranquil retreat, Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden is the perfect spot. Located in Didsbury, this botanical garden features beautifully landscaped gardens, rockeries, and lush greenery. Pack a picnic and enjoy a peaceful afternoon amidst the natural beauty. The gardens are also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers.
Indulge in Manchester’s Culinary Scene
Manchester’s food scene is as diverse as its population. Summer is an excellent time to explore the city’s outdoor dining options. Cutting room square in Ancoats is always a popular spot to grab a bite and sit in the sun. Rudy’s pizza and seven brothers brewery are two of our favourite spots. There’s also the street food markets like GRUB, where you can sample delicious dishes from independent vendors while enjoying live music and entertainment.
Experience Manchester’s Nightlife
As the sun sets, Manchester’s nightlife comes alive. The city offers a wide range of options, from trendy bars in Spinningfields to traditional pubs in the city center. Head to The Oast House for a drink in their outdoor courtyard, or visit Freight Island for one of their many themed nights. For a more laid-back evening, enjoy a cocktail at one of the rooftop bars like 20 Stories, which offers stunning views of the city skyline.
Catch a Cricket Game
Visit the other Old Trafford and catch Lancashire in action in a twenty 20 match. If you’re lucky you might be able to get your hands on a ticket for an England international game taking part throughout the summer. If you’ve never been to a cricket game before Old Trafford is one of the best grounds to visit as there’s a myriad of other activites going on as well as some great local food and drink vendors on site.
Day Trips and Excursions
Finally, take advantage of Manchester’s excellent transport links to explore the surrounding areas. The picturesque Peak District National Park is just a short train ride away and offers stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and charming villages. Alternatively, visit the historic town of Chester or the seaside resort of Blackpool for a change of scenery.
From its rich cultural heritage to its dynamic contemporary scene, Manchester offers a plethora of activities and attractions to enjoy during the summer. Whether you’re exploring its historic sites, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply soaking up the sun in one of its beautiful parks, Manchester is a city that promises a memorable summer experience.
Our food tours are a great way to explore the city and visit some of our favourite eating places along the way. We’re very busy in the sumer months so reserve your places as soon as you can by visiting www.manchesterbites.com/tours.
Coming this month: The Stockport Food Tour
We are delighted to announce that we are launching The Stockport food tour later this month.
Why Stockport?
For those of you not yet in the know, Stockport has been enjoying somewhat of a rennaisance in the past few years. No longer is it just a stop through on the train to Manchester.
Stockport has been heralded as the “Berlin of the North,” with a booming art scene and independent food and drink vendors popping up all over town.
Stockport foodie Fridays are already a fixture in most Mancunian food lovers diaries anyway. Every last Friday of the month the market area becomes a hive of food and drink activity. Local traders set up shop and you can try delicious bites from vendors such as Oh My Glaze or I knead Pizza.
What to expect on Stockport’s first food tour.
Over the past few months we have had the arduous but very enjoyable task of walking the town’s streets, putting together the tour. We’ve met bakers, chefs, distillers and more. Time and time again we’ve been blown away by the food and drink on offer and also the people producing it all.
We’re all about supporting local businesses and Stockport is bursting at the seams with some of the best in the North West.
Our food tours are running every Friday and Saturday and we’re going to keep them to small groups of a dozen or less.
Over 3 hours we’ll explore the cobbled streets of Stockport, stopping in at 6 locally run businesses and enjoying some of the town’s most loved dishes.
From home cooked South American flavours to locally inspired pizzas and even the occasional adult beverage included.
Our aim is to showcase the people behind the dishes and to give you a unique look at Stockport.
Each tour is led by a friendly local and there’s plenty of food and drink included for a filling lunch. We’ll tell some fun stories along the way and hopefully introduce you to some new favourites to tell your mates about.
How to reserve your spot
So if you’re looking to try somehwere different for a day out or you’d like us to lead you to some of Stockport’s finest producers then look no further.
To book your spots head to https://manchesterbites.com/our-tours/stockport-food-tour/
Supporting Manchester’s Restaurant Industry
Supporting Manchester’s restaurant industry is one of our prime motivations at Manchester Bites. There’s never been a more critical time for the industry than that at present. Businesses have clung on by their finger nails through covid and then the cost of living crisis.
The start of 2024 has seen the closure of more restaurants in our city and it’s not just the smaller operations. Here we take a look at what’s been happening and perhaps what we can do to help.
A Worrying Start to 2024
Manchester has been known for many things in it’s history. Birthplace of industry and home to some of the best music bands and sports teams in the country. More recently the city has gained a reputation as having some of the best dining outside of London. From uber trendy sushi joints to the Instagramable names of The Ivy and Sexy Fish, no longer is Manchester a backwater for the discernible diner.
We are blessed with some serious local talent. Simon Martin at our very own Michelin recognised Mana, Michael Clay just down the road at Elnecot and now Tom Barnes with his exciting opening of Skof mean that Manchester is a force to be reckoned with on the dining scene of the UK. Add to this the countless smaller businesses and locally run food heroes and we’re really lucky to have such a scene.
Unfortunately, the start of 2024 has seen a very worrying pattern not emerge but grow. Restaurant closures. This has been happening since Covid but perhaps now it seems more worrying with big names and long-term businesses shutting up shop.
We’re not just talking about the smaller operations. Just last month the doors closed on a south Manchester institution Greens in Didsbury. Helmed by TV chef Simon Rimmer, the restaurant has been a go to in the city’s vegetarian community for 33 years and introduced unique flavours to herbivores and carnivores alike. On the closure of his restaurant Rimmer said
“Our landlords have increased our rent by on the region of 35%. The cost of raw materials, the cost of heat, light and power, employing people and generous food costs had meant that the business unfortunately has become unviable”
Just this week we have lost a restaurant and deli that was well loved by guests on our Canals to Canapes food tour. Lily’s deli in Ancoats (pictured) closed it’s doors for good on 13th January. Whilst it’s original branch in Ashton and the Chorlton branch are still open, we will miss the staff and of course the food at this little gem of a place. Another locally run business that just couldn’t justify remaining open.
Why is This Happening ?
The closure of restaurants in Manchester is also reflective of evolving consumer behaviors, with a growing preference for food delivery and takeout services. The convenience of ordering from the comfort of home, has prompted a shift in how some people choose to enjoy their meals. As a result, many restaurants, especially smaller establishments without robust delivery infrastructure, have struggled to adapt to this changing landscape.
Additionally, the rise of virtual kitchens and ghost kitchens has added a new dimension to the competition, further squeezing traditional dine-in restaurants. These establishments, operating without a physical storefront, can often offer lower prices and a more streamlined operation, posing a formidable challenge to brick-and-mortar restaurants in Manchester.
Rising Rents and Property Prices:
Manchester’s urban landscape has been undergoing a transformation in recent years, with gentrification driving up property prices and rents. This has placed an additional burden on restaurant owners, especially those located in popular and trendy neighborhoods. As property values soar, many restaurants are faced with the difficult decision of whether to absorb the increased costs or pass them on to consumers in the form of higher menu prices.
For smaller, independently owned restaurants, the rising cost of real estate can be particularly detrimental. The closure of such establishments not only diminishes the city’s culinary diversity but also erodes the unique character that these smaller ventures bring to Manchester’s neighborhoods.
Business rates, VAT, food costs, wages. Everything is up. Last year in a local news article Sud pasta (now Rigotonis) explained what the costs were involved in their “house pasta”dish. The dish cost £16.50 and after all costs the restaurant made 50p. Think about that for a moment. If you had to get up every morning and work hard to keep your standards high, your reputation in tact and your staff all employed. Wouldn’t you want more than 50p per dish for your efforts?
Community Impact
Beyond the economic implications, the closure of restaurants in Manchester has a profound impact on the community. These establishments serve as social hubs, contributing to the city’s identity and fostering a sense of local pride. The loss of these gathering spaces creates not only a void in the culinary landscape but also a gap in the social fabric of the city.
We pride ourselves on being a friendly city. This is so apparent with the warm welcomes we receive on a daily basis when taking our food tours into businesses such as The Butcher’s Quarter on Tib street or This n That café. We feel almost like family and the community spirit that is created amongst the restaurant industry seaps into every customer.
When restaurants close we don’t just loose a place to eat we loose familiar faces, friendly smiles and a genuine pillar of the communities. We lose a place to come together, celebrate special occasions, or simply enjoy a meal with loved ones. The closure of these establishments resonates beyond economic statistics, touching the hearts of residents who have forged memories and connections within the walls of their favorite restaurants.
The worrying surge in restaurant closures in Manchester is a multifaceted issue rooted in economic challenges, changing consumer behaviors, rising costs, and community impact. As the city grapples with these closures, it becomes crucial for stakeholders, including local authorities, business owners, and residents, to collaborate in finding sustainable solutions to revive and support the beleaguered hospitality industry.
What can we do?
The resilience of Manchester’s culinary scene lies in the ability to adapt, innovate, and collectively work towards ensuring that the city’s diverse dining experiences continue to thrive. We have amazing people, doing amazing things and getting little if any reward. This won’t continue. We all need to be supporting Manchester’s restaurant industry.
We can all do a little bit to help this year. Have that lunch catch up you’ve been meaning to have for months, celebrate that milestone, order take aways directly from the restaurant and if possible, go and collect. All small things but if we all do them, we can help.
Prices will increase but you can be guaranteed that every restaurant owner and manager will be doing their upmost to make sure that service is on top form and that your experience is reflected in those increases. We speak to countelss business owners in the industry and one thing that ties them all together is the reluctance to pass these costs on to the end customer. But needs must and if we’re to keep enjoying Manchester’s food and nightlife economy as we all love to, we need to be aware of this.
Of course, the main people who really can make a difference here are the government. Ending ridiculous business rates and giving tax breaks to an industry which employs over half a million people directly and millions more indirectly. The restaurant industry has been battered more than most in the past few years and the help from above is pitiful.
How many more loved restaurants need to close before our communities are just a generic copy type full of Starbucks, Pizza Express and Nando’s?