Top 5 Manchester Brunch Spots You Must Try

Manchester's brunch scene is thriving, offering a variety of spots that cater to different tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for classic pancakes, trendy avocado toast, or something more adventurous, these top five brunch spots in Manchester have you covered.

1. Federal Cafe & Bar

Federal Cafe & Bar is an Antipodean-inspired cafe known for its all-day brunch offerings. With two locations in Manchester, Federal serves a menu that is both vibrant and delicious, making it a go-to spot for brunch enthusiasts.

Special Menu:

• Smashed Avocado on Toast – Topped with poached eggs, chili, and feta.
• French Toast – Served with berries, mascarpone, and maple syrup.
• Chorizo & Sweet Potato Hash – A hearty dish with poached eggs and salsa verde.

Location: 9 Nicholas Croft, Manchester M4 1EY
Contact Number: +44 161 425 0975
Official Website: Federal Cafe & Bar

Customer Experience:

Federal Cafe & Bar offers a cozy, laid-back atmosphere with friendly service. The cafe’s high-quality ingredients and creative dishes make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

Customer Favorites:

The Smashed Avocado on Toast is a standout for its fresh ingredients and perfect poached eggs, while the French Toast is loved for its indulgent sweetness.

Rating:

4.7/5 (Google Reviews)

2. Ezra & Gil

Ezra & Gil is a well-loved neighborhood cafe in the Northern Quarter, known for its industrial-chic interior and all-day brunch menu. The cafe serves up a range of dishes that are both comforting and innovative, making it a favorite brunch spot in Manchester.

Special Menu:

• Breakfast Bagel – A bagel filled with bacon, egg, and avocado.
• Superfood Salad – A healthy option with quinoa, kale, and roasted vegetables.
• Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes served with berries, maple syrup, and Greek yogurt.

Location: 20 Hilton St, Manchester M1 1FR
Contact Number: +44 161 236 8700
Official Website: Ezra & Gil

Customer Experience:

Ezra & Gil offers a vibrant and bustling atmosphere with a focus on quality and comfort. The cafe’s spacious setting and welcoming vibe make it a great spot for a leisurely brunch.

Customer Favorites:

The Breakfast Bagel is praised for its rich and satisfying flavors, while the Pancakes are a hit for their light and fluffy texture.

Rating:

4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

3. The Refuge by Volta

The Refuge by Volta, located within the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, offers a stylish and sophisticated brunch experience. The menu is eclectic, drawing inspiration from around the world, and is served in a grand, art-deco setting.

Special Menu:

• Shakshuka – Poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, served with crusty bread.
• Buttermilk Pancakes – Served with bacon and maple syrup.
• Huevos Rotos – A Spanish-inspired dish with fried eggs, potatoes, and chorizo.

Location: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA
Contact Number: +44 161 233 5151
Official Website: The Refuge by Volta

Customer Experience:

The Refuge offers an elegant dining experience with its stunning interior and attentive service. The relaxed yet refined atmosphere makes it a perfect choice for a special brunch outing.

Customer Favorites:

The Shakshuka is a popular choice for its rich, spicy flavors, while the Buttermilk Pancakes are loved for their fluffy texture and perfect combination of sweet and savory.

Rating:

4.5/5 (Google Reviews)

4. Evelyn’s Cafe Bar

Evelyn’s Cafe Bar is a trendy spot in the Northern Quarter offering a menu that blends global flavors with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients. The cafe’s light and airy setting, combined with its innovative dishes, makes it a perfect choice for brunch.

Special Menu:

• Charred Cauliflower – Served with tahini, pomegranate, and harissa.
• Pulled Chicken Bun – A flavorful option with sriracha mayo, avocado, and house slaw.
• Korean Fried Chicken – Crispy chicken with a spicy gochujang glaze.

Location: 44 Tib St, Manchester M4 1NB
Contact Number: +44 161 834 3303
Official Website: Evelyn’s Cafe Bar

Customer Experience:

Evelyn’s provides a relaxed and stylish dining environment with a focus on natural light and greenery. The casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, along with the diverse menu, makes it a favorite for both casual meals and special occasions.

Customer Favorites:

The Charred Cauliflower is a hit for its bold flavors, while the Korean Fried Chicken is loved for its crispy texture and spicy kick.

Rating:

4.6/5 (Google Reviews)

5. Alabama’s All American Eatery

Alabama’s All American Eatery brings a taste of the USA to Manchester with its hearty and indulgent brunch offerings. The diner-style eatery is known for its generous portions and American classics, making it a go-to spot for those looking for a satisfying brunch.

Special Menu:

• Buttermilk Pancakes – Thick pancakes served with maple syrup and a choice of toppings.
• Eggs Benedict – Poached eggs with ham and hollandaise sauce on an English muffin.
• Fried Chicken & Waffles – Crispy fried chicken served on a waffle with maple syrup.

Location: 10 Newton St, Manchester M1 2AN
Contact Number: +44 161 236 1364
Official Website: N/A

Customer Experience:

Alabama’s offers a cozy and casual dining experience with a focus on comfort food. The diner’s friendly service and hearty dishes make it a popular spot for a weekend brunch.

Customer Favorites:

The Buttermilk Pancakes are loved for their fluffy texture and rich toppings, while the Fried Chicken & Waffles is a favorite for its perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Rating:

4.4/5 (Google Reviews)

Conclusion

Manchester's brunch scene is a vibrant mix of flavors, atmospheres, and experiences. From the laid-back charm of Federal Cafe & Bar to the sophisticated elegance of The Refuge by Volta, these top five brunch spots cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're craving classic American fare at Alabama’s All American Eatery or indulging in globally-inspired dishes at Evelyn’s Cafe Bar, each of these venues promises a memorable brunch experience. With their unique offerings, cozy settings, and high ratings, they have become favorites for both locals and visitors alike. Manchester's brunch culture is a must-explore for any food enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the most popular brunch spots in Manchester?

The top five popular brunch spots in Manchester include Federal Cafe & Bar, Ezra & Gil, The Refuge by Volta, Evelyn’s Cafe Bar, and Alabama’s All American Eatery, each offering diverse menus and atmospheres to suit different tastes.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options at these brunch spots?

Yes, many of these cafes offer vegetarian or vegan options. For example, Federal Cafe & Bar serves smashed avocado toast, and Ezra & Gil offers a superfood salad, while Evelyn’s Cafe Bar provides globally inspired, plant-based dishes like Charred Cauliflower.

Do these brunch spots offer gluten-free dishes?

Several of the featured brunch spots have gluten-free options available. It's always a good idea to check with the restaurant directly or look for gluten-free items on the menu, which many places now label for customer convenience.

Which brunch spot in Manchester is best for a special occasion?

For a special occasion, The Refuge by Volta is a top choice due to its stylish art-deco setting and refined, globally inspired menu. Its elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for celebrations.

Do I need to make a reservation at these brunch spots?

While some cafes like Federal Cafe & Bar and Ezra & Gil operate on a first-come, first-served basis, it is recommended to make a reservation at The Refuge by Volta, especially on weekends, due to its popularity.