For dependable, modern British dining, the simply-named Northern Quarter Restaurant is worth a punt. Sitting opposite the former Smithfields Market, chef Anthony Fielden has devised a menu that focuses on local, seasonal produce that delivers dishes that are muscular and confident. It is an approach that clearly works – the eatery has won numerous awards as well as the hearts of local food critics.
Every Monday night upstairs at Fierce Bar, The Comedy Vault hosts an outrageously funny open-mic night. Come and try your hand or just to watch and laugh.
free entry
Burlesque of the Wall celebrates feminine powerhouse energy. Be captivated, inspired, and uplifted in this combination of live jazz and burlesque artistry.
Band on the Wall bring people together to make, as well as watch, music. Join them to learn folk tunes from all over the world.
Hear directly from the people powering the music industry in both Manchester and the UK, as well as witnessing some of the North’s upcoming talent at Beyond the Music.
from £16.75
Bring your records for a spin at our Open Deck session this Saturday! If you’ve bought some new vinyl from a local record shop this week, just show your receipt at the bar to get yourself a free 9” pizza!
Un-Convention is the ultimate independent music industry conference and showcase taking place at Band on the Wall in Manchester this November.
Mercurial NYC avant-rock vets Blonde Redhead play Manchester following the release of Sit Down for Dinner, their warmest, most welcoming record yet.
One of London’s most hyped bands of the moment, Bar Italia are playing Band on the Wall in support of their acclaimed 2023 album, The Twits.
from £15
Tacos, burgers, fries and fun at this Northern Quarter eatery
Ziferblat is a pay as you stay café in the northern quarter, where everything is free – except the time you spend.
Gordon Ramsay-approved Northern Quarter restaurant run by three sisters, featuring some of the city’s finest Chinese cuisine.
Regarded as the UK’s leading organisation for East and Southeast Asian art, esea contemporary is opening its doors again on 18 February 2023 in Manchester.
Award-winning cocktail bar in Manchester’s Nothern Quarter.
The Bay Horse Tavern is a laid-back pub based in the dead centre of the Northern Quarter, with a wide range of drinks and food options.
Northern Quarter stalwart Common Bar in Manchester serves excellent pub food, fine cocktails and decent coffee. It’s a firm Creative Tourist team favourite.
It’s a landmark year for Trof NQ. In the years since it first opened, the Northern Quarter has developed around it to become one of the city’s most prominent areas.
Late night Northern Quarter bar
Three storey bar and restaurant on Thomas Street in the Northern Quarter, from the team behind the Wilderness record store and bar in Withington.
The Smithfield Social is a charming Northern Quarter destination owned by local lad Liam Fray of Courteeners fame, offering brunch, lunch and a wide selection of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks.
The neo-Romanesque arches of this former wholesale food market still stand as a reminder to the Northern Quarter’s mercantile past.
From spotlights on indie presses to big hitters brought to you by the bookshops, festivals and libraries, you'll find plenty to whet your wordy whistle this month.
Traditional painting takes a step back this month to make way for some excellent photography, sculpture and multimedia exhibitions around the North.
Eclectic as ever. You'll find Bollywood musicals, scratch nights and anarchic Shakespeare in our pick of the performative crop.
From creative adventures, museum experiences and spectacular theatre, check out what's on for the family in Manchester and the north.
Read our latest highlights from the live classical music offer in Manchester and the North, taking in a number of the region's most cherished orchestral forces and venues.
Ealing Studios and the best of Ryan Gosling are amongst our film highlights this month.
Take a look at our top recommendations for restaurants and bars to check out this spring.
Gazing longingly towards the good times that will accompany the surely imminent sun, we take a look at the best music festivals coming up in Manchester and Salford.
Try something new, explore somewhere different, learn a new skill with our tours and activities guide.
The best food and drink options in Manchester and the North to visit in 2024.
