Summer is finally here, and we’re absolutely buzzing about heading back out in the world, seeing our mates again 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 pop-up 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, which Thomas Street has been pedestrianised just in time for. Sit under one of their giant parasols, or enjoy the open air and sunshine. 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. 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 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 town, Cane and Grain is serving up ribs, beer and burgers both inside and outside – so you can bask out in the warm weather, 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 the same vibe that you knew and loved before, with plenty of live music and hanging kebabs in store. 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. Escape to Freight Island
Escape to Freight Island has plenty of seats to fulfil your alfresco 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. Escape to 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 decor 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 alfresco terrace. Their Spinningfields venue boasts benches outdoors to enjoy a beer and a slice – and if that wasn’t all, 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 two summers ago, and now it’s more ideal than ever. Enjoy their incredible Neapolitan pizzas alfresco 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 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 soak up the sun 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 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
New in town just off busy Deansgate, Motley is part of swanky new 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, 115 Deansgate, M3 2NW.
25. Ducie Street
Ducie Street’s south-facing terrace is set to reopen very soon, with plenty of seating to enjoy – whether you’re heading for brunch, day drinks or dinner. The venue is the official 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.
[Featured image: Ibérica/Rudy’s Peter Street]