Top 5 Rooftop Restaurants in Manchester: Best Dining with a View

From stylish rooftop restaurants to cosy roof terraces in Manchester, the city offers some of the best restaurants with a view in Greater Manchester. If you’re searching for the best rooftop dining experiences in Manchester, you’re in for a treat. The city is home to chic sky bars, elegant rooftop restaurants, and cosy terraces that offer incredible skyline views. Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, a relaxed brunch, or cocktails with friends, Manchester’s rooftops combine great food, stylish settings, and panoramic backdrops. This guide highlights five of the top spots where you can enjoy delicious dishes while soaking up the city from above.

1. 20 Stories

Image source: tripadvisor.com

Perched at the top of Spinningfields, 20 Stories is often called the sky restaurant Manchester is most proud of. Known for its elegant interiors, sweeping skyline views, and modern British cuisine, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves rooftop dining in Manchester. More than just a rooftop spot, this restaurant combines fine dining with panoramic sights of the city – from the urban skyline to the hills beyond – making it a top choice for special occasions.

Special Menu

• Cheshire Beef Fillet – Served with truffle mash, spinach, and a red wine jus.
• Sea Bass – Accompanied by fennel, orange, and an almond dressing.
• Valrhona Chocolate Mousse – A rich dessert served with salted caramel and hazelnuts.

Location: No. 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Manchester M3 3EB
Contact Number: +44 161 204 3333
Official Website: 20 Stories
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience

20 Stories offers a luxurious dining experience with a stylish, modern interior and an extensive outdoor terrace. The breathtaking views, combined with excellent food and service, make it a standout destination in Manchester’s rooftop dining scene.

Customer Favorites

The Cheshire Beef Fillet is highly praised for its tenderness and flavour, while the Sea Bass is loved for its fresh and light taste.

Rating

4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

2. The Ivy Roof Garden

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With its floral displays and retractable roof, The Ivy is more than a dining spot — it’s one of the most stylish terrace restaurants Manchester has to offer. Many locals even call it their go-to among the city’s roof top restaurants in Manchester. Situated within The Ivy Spinningfields, this vibrant destination combines stunning décor with year-round comfort. Lush greenery, floral accents, and the elegant retractable roof create a tranquil yet lively atmosphere, making it one of the most talked-about rooftop restaurants in Manchester. The menu blends classic and contemporary dishes, with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients.

Special Menu

• Grilled Whole Lobster – Served with garlic butter, watercress, and thick-cut chips.
• Truffle Arancini – Crispy risotto balls with truffle and Parmesan.
• Chocolate Bomb – A melting chocolate shell with vanilla ice cream and honeycomb.

Location: The Pavilion, Byrom St, Spinningfields, Manchester M3 3HG
Contact Number: +44 161 503 3222
Official Website: The Ivy Spinningfields
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience

The Ivy Roof Garden offers a serene and picturesque setting with lush greenery and a retractable roof, making it an ideal spot year-round. The restaurant’s elegant design and high-quality menu make it a popular destination for both casual dining and special celebrations.

Customer Favorites

The Grilled Whole Lobster is praised for its indulgent, buttery flavour, while the Truffle Arancini wins hearts with its rich taste and crispy bite.

Rating

4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

Read Also: Top 5 Pizza Places in Manchester You Must Try

3. Cloud 23

Image source: tripadvisor.com

Set on the 23rd floor of the Beetham Tower, Cloud 23 is the highest restaurant in Manchester, offering unbeatable panoramic views. By night, it transforms into a chic rooftop bar Manchester visitors love for cocktails and celebrations. Known for its sophisticated vibe and stunning skyline backdrop, it’s a go-to destination for romantic dinners, light bites, and stylish evenings in the city. Frequently featured in guides to Manchester restaurants with a view, this iconic venue continues to be one of the most popular rooftop spots in Greater Manchester.

Special Menu

• Afternoon Tea – A selection of sandwiches, scones, and pastries with a choice of teas or Champagne.
• Charcuterie Board – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and accompaniments.
• Signature Cocktails – Creative cocktails inspired by Manchester’s history and culture.

Location: Beetham Tower, 303 Deansgate, Manchester M3 4LQ
Contact Number: +44 161 870 1670
Official Website: Cloud 23
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience

Cloud 23 offers an upscale and modern atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling windows providing breathtaking views. The chic decor and attentive service add to the luxurious experience, making it a must-visit for those looking to enjoy Manchester from above.

Customer Favorites

The Afternoon Tea is praised for its presentation and variety, while the Signature Cocktails are loved for their creativity and unique flavours.

Rating

4.3/5 (Google Reviews)

4. King Street Townhouse Terrace

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This boutique rooftop offers the charm of a Manchester roof terrace with stunning views of the Town Hall. It’s an intimate restaurant with a view Manchester couples often choose for relaxed dining. As part of the city’s vibrant rooftop dining scene, King Street Townhouse combines the elegance of a boutique destination with the cosy feel of a terrace. The stylish setting makes it perfect for a leisurely brunch, casual lunch, or evening cocktails while enjoying Manchester’s skyline.

Special Menu

• Sharing Platter – A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives.
• Seasonal Salads – Fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a choice of dressings.
• Cocktail List – Featuring classic and contemporary cocktails made with premium spirits.

Location: 10 Booth St, Manchester M2 4AW
Contact Number: +44 161 667 0707
Official Website: King Street Townhouse Terrace
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience

The rooftop terrace at King Street Townhouse offers a chic and intimate setting with stunning views over Manchester. The relaxed atmosphere and attentive service make it a great spot for unwinding after a busy day or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch.

Customer Favorites

The Sharing Platter is praised for its variety and quality, while the cocktails stand out for their flavour and creativity.

Rating

4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

5. El Gato Negro

Image source: tripadvisor.com

El Gato Negro blends Spanish flavours with the buzz of a rooftop bar in Manchester. With tapas and sangria served on its stylish terrace, it has become one of the most vibrant rooftop gardens Manchester offers. Located on King Street, this lively restaurant combines authentic Spanish cuisine with an elevated city backdrop. As one of the most talked-about roof top bars in Manchester, it delivers the perfect rooftop dining experience, making it a true highlight of the city’s food and drink scene.

Special Menu

• Patatas Bravas – Crispy potatoes with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
• Gambas al Ajillo – King prawns sautéed in garlic and chili.
• Paella Valenciana – Traditional Spanish paella with chicken, rabbit, and vegetables.

Location: 52 King St, Manchester M2 4LY
Contact Number: +44 161 694 8585
Official Website: El Gato Negro
Social Media Handle: N/A

Customer Experience

El Gato Negro offers a lively and stylish atmosphere with a rooftop terrace that is perfect for enjoying tapas and drinks. The vibrant decor and excellent service make it a favorite for both casual dining and special occasions.

Customer Favorites

The Patatas Bravas are loved for their crispy texture and bold flavour, while the Gambas al Ajillo win fans with their rich, garlicky taste.

Rating

4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

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Conclusion

Manchester’s rooftop dining scene offers something for every occasion — from sophisticated fine dining at 20 Stories to lively Spanish tapas at El Gato Negro, or afternoon cocktails high above the city at Cloud 23. Whether you want a special place for date night, a stylish terrace for weekend brunch, or simply a drink with a view, these elevated venues guarantee a memorable experience. With so many unique rooftops to choose from, your next dining adventure in Manchester is sure to come with an unforgettable skyline.

FAQs

1. Which rooftop restaurant in Manchester offers the best view?
20 Stories and Cloud 23 are known for their panoramic views of the city, offering some of the best rooftop dining experiences in Manchester.

2. What type of cuisine can I expect at these rooftop restaurants?
You’ll find a variety of cuisines, including modern British dishes at 20 Stories, classic Spanish tapas at El Gato Negro, and a mix of seasonal and contemporary plates at The Ivy Roof Garden.

3. Are these rooftop restaurants suitable for special occasions?
Yes, venues like 20 Stories, The Ivy Roof Garden, and Cloud 23 are perfect for special occasions due to their luxurious ambiance, exceptional service, and stunning views.

4. Do these rooftop restaurants require reservations?
It is highly recommended to make reservations, especially for popular spots like 20 Stories and The Ivy Roof Garden, as they can get quite busy, particularly during weekends and special events.

5. What is the best time to visit these restaurants?
Evenings are ideal for enjoying the sunset and city lights from these rooftop spots, but they also offer a great ambiance for brunch and lunch.