Top 5 Gastropubs in Manchester: Where Tradition Meets Gourmet Cuisine

Manchester boasts a variety of gastropubs that combine the best of traditional pub culture with high-quality, innovative cuisine. These establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere with an emphasis on great food and drink, making them perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. Here are the top five gastropubs in Manchester that you should definitely visit.

1. The Eagle and Child

The Eagle and Child, located in Ramsbottom just outside Manchester, is a multi-award-winning gastropub known for its seasonal, locally-sourced menu and stunning views. The pub offers a cozy, traditional atmosphere combined with modern British cuisine, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

Special Menu:

• Lancashire Hotpot – A traditional dish with slow-cooked lamb, onions, and potatoes.
• Roast Beef – Served with Yorkshire pudding, seasonal vegetables, and gravy.
• Sticky Toffee Pudding – A classic dessert with rich toffee sauce and vanilla ice cream.

Location: 3 Whalley Rd, Ramsbottom, Bury BL0 0DL
Contact Number: +44 1706 557181
Official Website: The Eagle and Child
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience:

The Eagle and Child offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with a focus on high-quality, locally-sourced food. The pub's outdoor terrace offers beautiful views, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

Customer Favorites:

The Lancashire Hotpot is a standout for its hearty, comforting flavors, while the Sticky Toffee Pudding is loved for its rich, sweet taste.

Rating:

4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

2. The Oast House

The Oast House is a popular gastropub located in Spinningfields, Manchester’s vibrant business district. Known for its rustic charm and extensive menu, which includes everything from traditional British dishes to international flavors, The Oast House offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Special Menu:

• Hanging Kebabs – A signature dish served with a choice of meats or vegetables, drizzled with garlic butter.
• Steak & Ale Pie – A classic British pie filled with tender steak and rich ale gravy.
• Chocolate Fondant – A decadent dessert with a gooey chocolate center.

Location: The Avenue Courtyard, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3AY
Contact Number: +44 161 829 3830
Official Website: The Oast House
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience:

The Oast House offers a unique and rustic setting with a lively beer garden and regular live music events. The pub’s friendly atmosphere and diverse menu make it a great spot for a casual meal or a night out with friends.

Customer Favorites:

The Hanging Kebabs are a favorite for their flavorful presentation, while the Steak & Ale Pie is praised for its hearty, comforting taste.

Rating:

4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

3. The Wharf

The Wharf, located in the heart of Castlefield, Manchester, is a stylish gastropub offering a relaxed and friendly atmosphere with a stunning waterside location. The menu focuses on British classics with a modern twist, and the pub is known for its extensive selection of beers and wines.

Special Menu:

• Fish & Chips – A British classic with crispy battered fish, triple-cooked chips, and mushy peas.
• Sunday Roast – A traditional roast with a choice of meats, served with all the trimmings.
• Eton Mess – A light dessert made with fresh strawberries, meringue, and whipped cream.

Location: 6 Slate Wharf, Manchester M15 4ST
Contact Number: +44 161 220 2960
Official Website: N/A
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience:

The Wharf offers a warm and inviting environment with both indoor and outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot for any occasion. The pub’s riverside location and extensive menu make it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

Customer Favorites:

The Fish & Chips are highly recommended for their crisp, golden batter and perfectly cooked fish, while the Sunday Roast is a favorite for its generous portions and traditional flavors.

Rating:

4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

4. The Marble Arch

The Marble Arch is one of Manchester’s oldest and most iconic gastropubs, known for its rich history and impressive selection of real ales. The pub also offers a menu of modern British dishes, made with locally-sourced ingredients, in a charming, old-world setting.

Special Menu:

• Marble Beef Burger – A juicy burger made with locally-sourced beef, served with cheese, bacon, and hand-cut chips.
• Pan-Seared Seabass – Served with a lemon and herb butter, new potatoes, and seasonal greens.
• Bread & Butter Pudding – A classic British dessert with custard and a hint of vanilla.

Location: 73 Rochdale Rd, Manchester M4 4HY
Contact Number: +44 161 832 5914
Official Website: N/A
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience:

The Marble Arch offers a cozy and historic setting with original Victorian features, making it a unique spot for a meal or a drink. The pub’s focus on quality ales and hearty, well-prepared dishes makes it a favorite among locals.

Customer Favorites:

The Marble Beef Burger is a standout for its rich, flavorful meat, while the Pan-Seared Seabass is loved for its light, delicate flavors.

Rating:

4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

5. The Edinburgh Castle

The Edinburgh Castle, located in Ancoats, is a beautifully restored Victorian pub offering a modern gastropub experience. The menu focuses on seasonal British cuisine, with an emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients and innovative dishes.

Special Menu:

• Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder – Tender lamb served with rosemary potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
• Beef Wellington – A luxurious dish with beef fillet, mushroom duxelles, and puff pastry.
• Apple & Blackberry Crumble – A classic dessert served with custard or ice cream.

Location: 19 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 5AW
Contact Number: +44 161 414 0004
Official Website: The Edinburgh Castle
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience:

The Edinburgh Castle offers a blend of historic charm and contemporary style, with a focus on high-quality food and drink. The pub’s elegant decor and innovative menu make it a top choice for those looking to enjoy a more refined gastropub experience.

Customer Favorites:

The Slow-Cooked Lamb Shoulder is praised for its tender, melt-in-the-mouth texture, while the Beef Wellington is a favorite for its rich, savory flavors.

Rating:

4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

Conclusion:

Manchester's gastropubs provide a delightful blend of traditional pub culture and modern, innovative cuisine, offering something for everyone. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty Sunday roast, a crispy plate of fish and chips, or a more upscale dish like Beef Wellington, these establishments promise a memorable dining experience. The welcoming atmospheres, beautiful settings, and focus on locally-sourced, high-quality ingredients make these gastropubs top destinations for both casual meals and special occasions. Be sure to visit these top five gastropubs in Manchester to enjoy the best of what the city's food scene has to offer.

FAQs:

1. What is a gastropub?
A gastropub is a pub that focuses on serving high-quality, gourmet food along with traditional drinks like beer and wine, blending the best of both worlds—great food and a relaxed pub atmosphere.

2. Which gastropub in Manchester is best for a Sunday roast?
The Wharf is highly recommended for its traditional Sunday roast, featuring a choice of meats and all the classic trimmings.

3. Are these gastropubs suitable for special occasions?
Yes, these gastropubs offer a variety of settings, from cozy and traditional to elegant and modern, making them perfect for both casual dining and special celebrations.

4. Do these gastropubs offer vegetarian options?
Yes, most gastropubs offer vegetarian and even vegan options. It's best to check their menu online or call ahead to confirm specific dishes.

5. Can I make reservations at these gastropubs?
Most of these gastropubs, like The Eagle and Child and The Edinburgh Castle, offer the option to make reservations. It's advisable to book ahead, especially during peak hours or for special events.