Restaurants in Ancoats

Ian Jones, Food and Drink Editor

The restaurants in Ancoats are fast-becoming recognised as some of the best in the UK, let alone Manchester. It’s a far cry from the old days, just two decades back, when this small suburb was a no-go area, dominated by crime and run-down buildings. These days it’s a laid-back area, populated by the city’s more bohemian residents, who are fed and watered by some of the finest bars and restaurants for miles around. This includes the city’s best bakeries, the city’s best pizza joints, and restaurants serving up all different kinds of cuisine from across the world.

Based next to the Northern Quarter, Ancoats has so far held out against the kinds of bars that have made the Northern Quarter less of an alternative enclave, and has a more laid-back and less hen party feel. If you’re looking for the best of Manchester, look no further. Here’s our guide to very best places to eat in Ancoats.

Here are our picks

  • 1. Canto

    Ian Jones

    Canto, Fairbairn Unit A, Fairbairn Building, Henry Street, Manchester, M4 5DH - Visit now

    Canto is the latest project from Simon Shaw, founder and Creative Director of the acclaimed tapas restaurant El Gato Negro. Porto-born Head Chef Carlos Gomes has created an authentically Portuguese menu, full of delightful small plates you won’t find anywhere else.

  • 2. Elnecot

    Elnecot
    Elnecot

    Elnecot, 41 Blossom Street, Cutting Room Square, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6AJ - Visit now

    Elnecot was the first recorded name for Ancoats in 1212, and they do the district proud with their excellent array of cocktails and not-too-heavy courses.

  • 3. Rudy’s Pizza

    Image of Rudy's Neapolitian Pizza, Ancoats
    Ben Williams

    Rudy’s Pizza, 9 Cotton Street, Ancoats, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M4 5BF - Visit now

    Widely-regarded as the best pizza restaurants in Manchester and beyond, Rudy’s is a must-try for fans of dough, cheese and tomato.

  • 4. Erst

    erst.

    Erst, 9 Murray St, Manchester, M4 5BN - Visit now

    Erst. is the latest creation from the team behind the popular Trove bakery. They serve simple, seasonal food from the grill, along with a wide range of natural wine and craft beers.

  • 5. The Hip Hop Chip Shop

    The Hip Hop Ship Shop

    The Hip Hop Chip Shop, 44 Blossom St, Manchester, M4 6BF - Visit now

    The Hip Hop Chip Shop has been one of the city’s best kept secrets for a while, the only problem being where to find it. Now firmly based at one of the city’s most high-profile areas, you can satisfy those throwback chippy cravings (almost) every night of the week.

  • 6. Pollen Bakery

    Pollen Bakery
    Pollen

    Pollen Bakery, Cotton Field Wharf, 8 New Union St, Manchester, M4 6FQ - Visit now

    This small but perfectly-formed bakery is well worth a visit for their unique take on sourdough bread and viennoiserie baked goods.