The summer sun may be a little temperamental, but we’re still very much in the mood for our favourite new hobby: al fresco boozing. And luckily for us, we don’t have to, thanks to the life-saving invention that is the portable outdoor heater. From rooftop escapes to the perfect date-friendly outdoor settings, here’s our guide to the best, heated terraces to try this month in Manchester. What better way to elongate those summer vibes, after all?
1. The Doghouse
New in town and boasting NYC vibes on every corner, BrewDog’s brand new hotel, The Doghouse, offers one of the very best rooftop terraces in the city – and luckily for us, it also offers outdoor heating, too. Escape Manchester for a while to a place that really could be anywhere in the world, enjoy top-class craft beers by BrewDog, and chow down on tasty tacos while enjoying the final days of summer. The Doghouse, 18-20 Fountain St, M2 2AR.
2. Dive NQ
Dive Bar & Grill in Manchester’s Northern Quarter unveiled a huge makeover last year, which included an impressive outdoor terrace that can be enjoyed whatever the weather. Completely covered on the gloomier of days and complete with outdoor heaters, guests can enjoy a large selection of tasty cocktails, wines, and beers on tap, alongside small plates and light bites that are perfect for grazing on while catching up with mates. Dive Bar & Grill, Tib St, M4 1SH.
3. Hatch
One of Manchester’s favourite al fresco spaces all year round, Hatch can be enjoyed whatever the weather, thanks to the addition of ample outdoor heating that you can huddle up under while enjoying tons of delicious street food. From Asian fusion and Portuguese cuisine to show-stopping desserts and even hidden bars with their own secret terraces, there are tons to explore at Hatch. Hatch, 103 Oxford Rd, M1 7ED.
4. Zouk
The perfect spot for al fresco dinner and drinks with friends, even on the cooler of days, Zouk Tea Bar & Grill offers an excellent menu packed full of both authentic Indian dishes and delicious Asian fusion creations, too. On the terrace, guests will find plenty of outdoor heating to keep warm under, as well as pretty floral displays and modern decor, providing the perfect setting for catch-ups and dinner dates. Zouk Tea Bar & Grill, 5, The Quadrangle, Chester St, M1 5QS.
5. Dakota
Making over their fantastic terrace ready for the summer season, Dakota is home to a fantastic heated outdoor space, with plenty of tables and a menu boasting tons of cocktails, tasty ‘light bites’, and a wonderful Sunday lunch, too (giant Yorkie puds included!). The terrace is open all year round, meaning you can enjoy the light and airy space whatever the weather. Dakota, 29 Ducie St, M1 2JL.
6. Atlas
Tucked away at the far end of Deansgate, Atlas provides the perfect retreat for gin lovers – with a wonderful outdoor terrace that’s not only covered, but heated, too. Challenge yourself to the impossible task of choosing from their impressive collection of over 530 gins, enjoy a relaxed menu of sharing platters and light bites, and hibernate from the changing season in one of the bar’s many cosy al fresco corners. Atlas Bar, 376 Deansgate, M3 4LY.
7. Rudy’s Peter Street
Opening at their Peter Street venue a couple of years ago, Rudy’s customers can enjoy their fantastic Neapolitan pizza in the great outdoors, with comfort in the knowledge that you’re protected from the elements by the Mediterranian-style canape, complete with outdoor heating. Cosy up under the twinkling lights with a tasty Negroni, fill your face with one of the best pizzas in the world, and catch up with mates in the relaxed atmosphere that the restaurant has become well-loved for. Rudy’s, Petersfield House, Peter St, M2 5QJ.
8. Escape to Freight Island
Escape to Freight Island is the ultimate al fresco experience, with tons of different areas for guests to enjoy during their visit. Whether it’s a seat on the terrace above the bleachers, a covered bench by the bar or a table in the stunning greenhouse-style tent, Escape to Freight Island has you sorted with outdoor heating. Home to a variety of food traders, guests can currently enjoy NYC-style pizza, juicy burgers, incredible Italian pasta and so much more. Escape to Freight Island, 11 Baring St, M1 2PZ.
9. Sunset by Australasia
Long reigning as one of Manchester’s best bars with that outdoor-indoor feel, Sunset by Australasia’s stunning pink-hued terrace is heated all year round, with touches of greenery in every corner bringing the outside in. Enjoy the beautiful terrace without the need for a jacket, alongside an impressive selection of Asian-inspired cocktails and a fantastic menu of Australasian small plates and sushi. Sunset by Australasia, 1 The Avenue, M3 3AP.
10. Fazenda
Similarly to many of Spinningfields’ restaurants that reside within what’s known as ‘The Avenue’, Fazenda offers a beautiful covered outdoor terrace, with heating and cosy finishes to enjoy all year round. There, guests can enjoy the restaurant’s unique rodizio offering, which includes a fine selection of Brazilian meats, cooked to perfection. Fazenda, The Avenue, M3 3AP.
11. Scene Indian Street Kitchen
Located right next to the river on Leftbank, Spinningfields, Scene Indian Street Kitchen is home to a stunning outdoor terrace, that offers both shelter from the Manchester weather and, of course, heat, glorious heat – not just with outdoor heating, but with their dishes, too. Enjoy warming and halal-friendly dishes such as curries, tandoor bread, succulent spicy meats and more, alongside Indian-inspired cocktails and an array of fruity classics, too. Scene Indian Street Kitchen, 4 Left Bank, M3 3AN.
12. Ramona
New kid on the block Ramona is set to be a wonderful, warming haven during the new season, thanks to its cosy giant tipi that’s warmed up with plenty of heaters and an open fire. It’s a place where Mancs can escape to enjoy live music, Detroit pizza, cocktails, beers and more, without shivering your backside off when the weather finally turns. Ramona, 40 Swan St, M4 5JG.
13. The Ivy
A terrace so well covered, you’ll forget it’s a terrace at all. The Ivy Manchester’s botanical rooftop is a truly stunning place to retreat to for a lovely date night, with a delicious British brasserie menu that’s gained the restaurant quite the cult following. Enjoy Instagrammable cocktails, tasty modern dishes, and a delectable array of desserts, the Chocolate Bombe, of which, is particularly showstopping. The Ivy, The Pavilion, Byrom St, M3 3HG.