Manchester knows how to make the most of a sunny day. The terraces fill up, the street food queues get longer and suddenly every catch-up revolves around where everyone’s eating next. With so many standout summer menus, rooftop restaurants and seasonal specials across the city, choosing where to go isn’t easy. Luckily, we’ve done the hard work for you and rounded up the best places to enjoy Manchester’s must-try summer bites.
Spend an evening grazing around Freight Island
There’s a reason Freight Island becomes one of Manchester’s busiest summer hangouts every year. The sprawling venue brings together some of the city’s best independent food traders, alongside DJs, live music and plenty of outdoor seating. Order a few different dishes for the table, grab a frozen cocktail and spend the evening hopping between great food, live entertainment and sunshine.
Book a table at Higher Ground while the menu celebrates the season
Few restaurants embrace seasonal cooking quite like Higher Ground. The menu changes regularly depending on what’s at its best, showcasing British ingredients through inventive small plates that celebrate summer produce. No two visits are ever quite the same, making it one of Manchester’s most exciting places to eat if you’re looking to try something new.
Enjoy an al fresco meal at PizzaExpress with amazing ExpressFest offers
Long summer days call for leisurely lunches and golden-hour dinners, and PizzaExpress First Street is the perfect place to settle in. This summer, the restaurant is celebrating the season with ExpressFest – PizzaExpress’s feel-good celebration of great food, live music and the joy of getting together. Expect fresh seasonal flavours, ice-cold drinks, epic giveaways and exclusive offers designed to make every visit feel like a summer occasion. Enjoy 2 for £14 cocktails and 2 for £10 large Peroni, while tucking into delicious summer specials like the Chipotle Corn Palooza or Peach & Parma Hot pizza. Sun yourself on the terrace with a £10 Power Lunch, or enjoy dinner with a starter and main for only £20! The stage is set and the summer vibes are high at ExpressFest – you won’t want to miss out on this impressive foodie setlist.
Share Mediterranean-inspired plates at Medlock Canteen
Long lunches were made for places like Medlock Canteen. The neighbourhood favourite has quickly built a loyal following thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, thoughtfully sourced ingredients and menu of Mediterranean-inspired dishes designed for sharing. Order a selection for the table, pour a glass of natural wine and settle in – this is the kind of place where one course easily turns into three.
Cool off with an ice cream around the Northern Quarter
Some of the best summer food moments happen between meals. After wandering the independent shops and colourful streets of the Northern Quarter, stop for an ice cream or sweet treat from one of the area’s much-loved dessert spots. It’s the perfect excuse to slow down, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy one of Manchester’s most vibrant neighbourhoods on a sunny afternoon.
End the day with rooftop drinks and dinner at 20 Stories
Few places rival the views from 20 Stories on a warm summer evening. Perched high above the city, the rooftop restaurant and terrace combines panoramic skyline views with seasonal dishes and expertly mixed cocktails, making it one of Manchester’s most sought-after summer dining destinations. Arrive in time for sunset and you’ll quickly see why it’s become a go-to spot for celebrating special occasions.
