Summer is finally here, and we’re absolutely buzzing to get out and pretend we’re somewhere in Europe, and see our mates over a couple of nice, cold pints. And to help us catch up in style, many of Manchester’s food and drink establishments are utilising their outdoor spaces and creating their very own terraces, perfect for lounging in the sun (when it makes an appearance!). Check out our ultimate guide to outdoor dining spots to try in Manchester this summer.
1. The Bay Horse Tavern, Northern Quarter
Taking the pub vibes outdoors, the Bay Horse Tavern customers can enjoy food and drinks on their outdoor terrace on the now famous outdoor strip on Thomas Street. Sit under one of their giant parasols for a pleasing outdoor dining experience, or enjoy the open air and sunshine that’s so rare in Manchester. Bay Horse Tavern, 35-37 Thomas St, M4 1NA.
2. The Alchemist, Spinningfields and Piccadilly
The perfect spot for cocktails and small plates, The Alchemist is a great summer spot – with outdoor seating areas at both their Manchester venues. The outdoor seating is usually in high demand, so we’d advise getting there early if you want to sit out front. You can’t get much more central for outdoor dining in Manchester. The Alchemist, 1 New York St, M1 4HD | 3 Hardman St, M3 3HF.
3. Terrace, Northern Quarter
Terrace‘s terrace is a great spot for summer drinks, but did you know they serve up some tasty grub, too? Enjoy a wonderful outdoor dining experience yummy pizzas courtesy of Noi Quattro, brunch dishes, pies and more in the glorious Manchester sun. Terrace, 43 Thomas St, M4 1NA.
4. Cane & Grain, Northern Quarter
Some of the best American grub in Manchester, Cane and Grain is serving up ribs, beer and burgers both inside and outside – so you can bask out in the warm weather, taking advantage of the outdoor dining opportunity, or hide inside with a bit of comfort food if it rains. Cane and Grain, 49, 51 Thomas St, M4 1NA.
5. The Oast House, Spinningfields
The Oast House customers can finally enjoy the large, open space all over again now that spring is here. Expect an impeccable vibe, with plenty of live music and hanging kebabs in store, as well as plenty of events throughout the spring and summer months packing out the outdoor area. It’s equally a great location for outdoor Manchester dining, though, with a city centre location yet feels enclosed and relatively quiet, until the football comes on that is. The Oast House, The Avenue Courtyard, M3 3AY.
6. The Lawn Club
Spring at The Lawn Club is here, and this year, they have ample seating across their sun-soaked lawn. Enjoy private dining pods, bench-style seating perfect for mate dates, cosy bean bag seating and their indoor pub for rainy days. The Lawn Club, Hardman Square, Spinningfields, M3 3HG.
7. Freight Island
Freight Island has plenty of seats to fulfil your al fresco needs, with a number of vendors on site serving up seriously good beer and grub. We’re talking NYC-style pizzas, juicy burgers, authentic Vietnamese dishes and beers from Camden Town Brewery. This place is super popular, so it’s best to get your table booked beforehand. Freight Island, 11 Baring St, M1 2PZ.
8. Thaikhun, Spinningfields
An outdoor terrace with a difference – Thaikhun is a really fun place to be. The décor is incredible, inspired by street food markets in Thailand, and the food is absolutely delish. Thaikhun, 3 Hardman St, M3 3HF.
9. Crazy Pedro’s, Spinningfields
Pizza at Pedro’s? Enjoy it outside on their al fresco terrace. Their Bridge Street venue boasts benches outdoors to enjoy a beer and a slice – and if that wasn’t enough, they’re even offering up bottomless brunch – with bottomless slices, margs and more! Crazy Pedro’s, Short St, M4 1AA | 55-57 Bridge St, M3 3BQ.
10. Rudy’s, Peter Street
Rudy’s on Peter Street opened up its beautiful terrace just a few summers ago, and now it’s more ideal than ever. Enjoy their incredible Neapolitan pizzas al fresco Italian-style, cocktail in hand. Rudy’s, Petersfield House, Peter St, M2 5QJ.
11. Hatch, Oxford Road
You can’t get any more spring-friendly than Hatch, the outdoor destination for street food and independent shopping. Potter around and check out what’s on offer, before winding down with a beer or wine and a bit of grub from one of the lovely street food vendors tucked inside converted shipping containers. Hatch, 103 Oxford Rd, M1 7ED.
12. Seven Bro7hers Middlewood Locks, Salford
A great summer spot tucked away where Salford and Manchester City Centre meet, Seven Bro7hers venue at Middlewood Locks offers a huge outdoor space, where you can grab pub grub or knock back a few of their experimental pints (made with honey, Rice Crispies and even Coco Pops!). Seven Bro7hers, Lockside Ln, Salford, M5 4YP.
13. Dukes 92, Castlefield
A large beer garden in the Castlefield area, Dukes 92 is the perfect spot for watching sports, catching up with friends, or eating and drinking – with ample outdoor seating available. Dukes 92, 18 – 25 Castle St, M3 4LZ.
14. BrewDog
A permanent fixture at BrewDog, Peter Street – guests can soak up the sun til late evening here, with tons of BrewDog pints on draught, some gorgeous wines, cocktails and, of course, seriously good grub on the menu. The bar operates on a walk-in basis, so you can simply rock up, grab a table and order via a QR code. BrewDog, Scottish Mutual House, 35 Peter St, M2 5BG.
15. Ramona, Ancoats
Ramona has a seriously amazing outdoor space for us to enjoy, with bookings open now. The fantastic beer garden consists of a teepee and campfire area, where guests can knock back a few pints and a whole lot of slices of their amazing Detroit-style pizza. Just don’t forget a drizzle of their hot honey while you’re there… Ramona, 40 Swan St, M4 5JG.
16. Banyan, Corn Exchange
Banyan‘s Corn Exchange venue allows guests to soak up the sun on one of Manchester’s busiest squares. The terrace is a permanent fixture for the Corn Exchange bar and restaurant, and guests can take advantage of their extensive cocktail menu, diverse food options and sun-trap location. Banyan, Unit 4, The Corn Exchange, Exchange Square, M4 3TR.
17. Sunset by Australasia, Spinningfields
Opening their heated terrace for us to enjoy this spring, guests at Sunset by Australasia can enjoy their fantastic Australasian-inspired menu of sushi, Japanese small plates, and Asian inspired cocktails. The stunning terrace is complete with heaters and blankets and is completely covered, too, so you can seek refuge when the inevitable Manchester rain rears its head. Sunset by Australasia, 1 The Avenue, M3 3AP.
18. The Ivy, Spinningfields
Allowing fans to get the Brasserie experience in the great outdoors, The Ivy has created a stunning English garden-style terrace (in true The Ivy style, of course), with limited seating where guests can enjoy the sunshine, look out over the Lawn Club, and chow down on their classic brasserie dishes, cocktails and more. The Ivy, The Pavilion, Byrom St, M3 3HG.
19. El Gato Negro, King Street
Serving tapas on the terrace, El Gato Negro is well and truly bringing the Mediterranian vibes to Manchester this spring. Their rooftop terrace is the perfect place to enjoy a tipple on lovely King Street as you soak up the sun, with a menu of classic tapas dishes available to enjoy. El Gato Negro, 52 King St, M2 4LY.
20. Zouk, Oxford Road
Zouk‘s gorgeous outdoor terrace is perfect for the spring, serving up delicious Indian dishes, including brunch, lunch, curries, eclectic chicken tikka bao buns, and their huge Sunday roasts. The summery space has plenty of room under its tin cover, with heaters also dotted throughout to keep us warm on those cooler evenings. Zouk Tea Bar & Grill, 5, The Quadrangle, Chester St, M1 5QS.
21. Salvi’s, Corn Exchange
Bringing a slice of Naples to the Corn Exchange this summer, guests can enjoy a menu of Italian classics, from pizza and pasta to delicious meat dishes at Salvi’s al fresco terrace. Accepting both bookings and walk-ins, the beloved restaurant will continue serving authentic Italian grub this summer, all made fresh with ingredients imported straight over from the Med. Salvi’s, 1 The Corn Exchange, Corporation St, M4 3TR.
22. Dive Bar
Creating a brand new outdoor terrace as part of their most recent renovation, Dive Bar & Grill now boasts a weather-friendly outdoor space, which features a retractable cover and heaters for those cold and rainy days. Serving up American-inspired small plates, cocktails, beers and tons of wines, it’s the perfect spot for a casual catch up this summer – come rain, or shine. Dive Bar, Tib St, M4 1SH.
23. The Anthologist
One of Manchester’s cosiest all-day cocktail bars, The Anthologist has a lovely outdoor seating area, which is the perfect place to people-watch while supping on their extensive cocktail menu. Enjoy their tasty list of ‘bar bites’, take advantage of their seriously dog-friendly policy, or simply catch up with mates within the bustling area of the city. The Anthologist, One St Peter’s Square, M2 3DE.
24. Motley
Just off busy Deansgate, Motley is part of swanky hotel Yotel, offering stylish, street-side dining for both guests and passersby. Serving ‘uncomplicated’ dishes, draft lagers, cocktails and more, guests can expect Mediterranean dishes such as burgers, flatbreads and more, as well as friendly service and a great atmosphere. Motley is also launching a dedicated spring cocktail terrace, so keep your eyes peeled for even more outdoor space! Motley, 115 Deansgate, M3 2NW.
25. Ducie Street Warehouse
Ducie Street Warehouse‘s south-facing terrace is a hit every summer, with plenty of seating to enjoy – whether you’re heading for brunch, day drinks or dinner. The venue is the original home of Manchester’s cult bakery, Gooey, and offers a fantastic, diverse menu for lunch and dinner. Ducie Street Warehouse, Ducie St, M1 2TP.
26. Dakota
A gorgeous hideaway near Piccadilly station, the summery Dakota terrace is the perfect spot for a glass of fizz on a sunny afternoon, with plenty of small plates on offer to indulge in, too. Dakota, 29 Ducie St,M1 2JL.