Ten food and drink spots to get excited about

Manchester’s food and drink scene is constantly evolving, arguably faster than the city itself. From indulgent Italian feasts to beloved Nordic minimalism, or even just a cappuccino near a cat, these new spots are set to make a splash in the city's hospitality landscape. 

Here’s ten restaurants to get excited about. 

1. Circolo Popolare – The Italian kingpin arrives 

Circolo Popolare is finally bringing its over-the-top Italian magic to Manchester, and we are ready. For a while, it wasn’t clear which of the serious operators from Big Mamma’s group would land here, but Circolo Popolare is a strong (and popular) choice. 

Expect creamy carbonara served from a giant cheese wheel, pizzas the size of your head, and walls stacked high with bottles of limoncello. It’s loud, chaotic, and completely unapologetic. The Italian grandma you wish you had.

2. Sister Moon – Sky-high Southeast Asian vibes   

Chef Sam Grainger is about to take Manchester dining to new heights, quite literally, with what feels like his 357th launch in recent years following the success of Madre,  Medlock Canteen, Doug’s Hamburgers and Amber’s nightclub.

Perched on the 14th floor of Treehouse Hotel Manchester, Sister Moon promises a Southeast Asian-inspired menu with “bold, punchy flavours” and Sam’s signature creative flair. DJ legends Luke Una and Justin Crawford (of Electrik and Volta fame) are handling the music, so it’ll be a treat for more than just the palate. Rooftop views, killer cocktails, and, we assume, very good food. Yes, please.

3. The Cut & Craft – Steak and style    

Steak lovers, this one’s for you. The Cut & Craft, already a hit in Leeds and York, is finally landing in Manchester. Their speciality? High-quality steaks at surprisingly reasonable prices. Add to that the grandeur of a historic building dressed up like a palace and a cocktail list that means business. 

This could be Manchester’s next celeb hotspot or just the place to be seen, but underneath the gloss it might quietly become one of the city’s standout restaurants.

4. Ocasa – Latin American Heat

Sunset is gone; long live Ocasa. The name? A blend of "OCA" (the sacred heart of the agave) and "CASA" (home). It’s ready to step into Spinningfields with a menu of elevated Mexico City street food made from simple, humble ingredients. 

On the drinks front: “Cocktails that deliver an authentic flavour of the South and a twist of the West while respecting the traditions of the past.” Basically, Spinningfields is about to get a whole lot hotter this summer.

5. Lina Stores – Pasta Heaven

If you’ve ever queued for an hour outside Lina Stores in London, you’ll know why this opening is a big deal. Like when Dishoom came up north, this is your chance to beat the queues and act smug to your southern mates. 

Fresh, hand-rolled pasta is the star here - silky pappardelle, perfect ravioli - alongside a deli section that’ll be your go-to for last-minute gifts for your mum. It might make you rethink every supermarket pasta purchase you’ve ever made. Buon appetito, Manchester.

6. Royal Nawaab – The Buffet of Dreams

Royal Nawaab doesn’t mess about. This South Asian mega-restaurant is legendary for its buffet: fragrant biryanis, sizzling kebabs, and creamy curries as far as the eye can see.

The new Stockport location is set to be massive (literally), featuring grand Mughal-inspired décor and room after room of splendour. Bring your stretchy pants, or suit trousers, depending on the occasion.

7. Morning Glory – Brunch Like You Mean It

Yellow-clad content creator @ZackHipps has teased a new coffee shop he is opening on Oldham Street this year. Details are sparse, but if Zack is behind it, you know it’ll be good. His Instagram followers have seen the process unfold, from sourcing the right beans to getting everything just so. Safe to say, expectations are high.

8. Cat Café – Coffee and Cats (Yes, really)

Manchester’s Cat Café is making a comeback. Judging by the online response to their announcement, people really want it back. After vacating their original site in 2021 the team are set to open on Deansgate in the old Classic Football Shirts unit. Where else can you sip a flat white while surrounded by sleepy cats? 

Pre-booking is advised; apparently, animals that don’t care about your presence are in very high demand. Opening delays are due to a lift installation, as accessibility is a major priority. They have also addressed cat safety concerns in a recent post.

9. Grind – Coffee Meets Cocktails

Grind, known for its lively all-day coffee shops, is bringing its full menu to Manchester, from takeaway flat whites to bottomless brunches and expertly crafted cocktails. Expect speciality-grade coffee, fresh seasonal dishes, and that signature Grind vibe. It’ll be part of the multi-million pound St Michael’s development from your friend and mine, Gary Neville.

10. Osma – Nordic Cool

Inspired by Nordic simplicity, Manchester favourite Osma is all about seasonal ingredients, clean flavours, and precise presentation. After chatting with chef owner Danielle Heron at Northern Restaurant & Bar, she kept the location under wraps but promised it would stay on the Prestwich side of town and remain accessible for her loyal regulars.

Definitely one to watch, and don’t forget, you can still sample Osma dishes at Exhibition on Peter Street.

Main image: Circolo Popolare

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