Ancoats is filled with hidden gems, so we’ve uncovered them for you.
New to the city? Or looking to explore more of what the newly-regenerated Ancoats has to offer? We’ve uncovered the best places to eat in Ancoats, so you don’t have to. From Vietnamese street food to classic Italian grub – there’s a whole lot more to the uber-cool neighbourhood than red brick and industrial history. If your tummy isn’t rumbling yet, it will be soon!
Rudy’s
Officially voted the number one pizza in the UK and tenth in the world, Rudy’s pizza has quite the reputation – and it’s right here in Manchester. Originating in Ancoats, the casual restaurant serves authentic Neopolitan pizza with Italian ingredients, and pre-warning: they’re so delicious you’ll probably be hooked after your first visit. Secret Manchester recommendations include their calabrese, the Carni, Ancozzese and the classic Margherita. Rudy’s, 9 Cotton St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 5BF.
The Counter House
With a diverse menu and fantastic hospitality, The Counter House is well worth the visit. The vibrant restaurant serves an extensive menu of breakfast and brunch dishes, with a number of small plates for sharing and main courses such as Thai green jackfruit curry and harissa chicken. The real highlight, however, is their Sunday roast. The roast is piled high with your choice chicken, beef or nut roast and served with all the trimmings: roast potatoes, swede mash, a giant Yorkshire pudding, carrots, parsnips, savoy cabbage and gravy. Everything is full of flavour and well worth ditching Toby Carvery one weekend for. The Counter House, 35 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6AJ.
Sugo
Originating in Altrincham, popular pasta kitchen Sugo serves a simple menu with some of the best, modern Italian dishes in the city. Their Strascinate is a real highlight, stuffed with incredibly tasty toppings such as Tuscan sausage, beef shin and nduja. The restaurant has a real Italian family feel, with huge portion sizes and heavy hands when it comes to the toppings, while tables are commonly shared with parties as well as your own. Booking is recommended, however, as the dinner spot is frequently busy! Sugo Pasta Kitchen, 46 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6BF.
Elnecot
A relaxed but fancy place that’s particularly popular for weekend brunch, Elnecot is a small, industrial spot that serves cocktails, small plates and brunch. The main menu features a number of British dishes, such as Scottish hake and Mutton henry, while the brunch menu takes a more casual approach with highlights such as green eggs and ham and wild mushrooms on sourdough toast. Their Sunday roast is also worth a try, with beef, chicken, pork belly and nut roast all available to order. Elnecot, Cutting Room Square, 41 Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 6AJ.
Viet Shack
Previously popular in the Arndale Market, Viet Shack has expanded out into Ancoats with a venue on Great Ancoats Street. The restaurant is a city fave for Vietnamese street grub, with a seriously tasty lunchtime offer to take advantage of. For just £9.99, guests can order any dish with a beer, coffee or soft drink. Both lunch and dinner menus are available, with dishes such as Surf & Turf noodles and Quack Fries being popular choices. Viet Shack, 65 Great Ancoats St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 5AB.
Jüb Thai
The Thai spot formerly known as Vivid Lounge, Jüb Thai is a hidden gem by the city centre which has received high praise from many who have tried it. With an outdoor terrace and a cosy space inside to dine, the menu features a number of traditional Thai curries such as a chicken green curry, Panang curry as well as stir-fries and pork ribs. It’s the perfect space in the summer for an al-fresco meal with a pint, or for a warm, authentic meal in the winter months. Jüb Thai, 149A Great Ancoats St, Manchester, M4 6DH.
Canto
The first Portuguese restaurant in Manchester city centre, Canto serves a range of Mediterranian tapas dishes, with Portuguese influences throughout. The space features a laid back and homely vibe, with twinkly lights and rustic touches providing a warm atmosphere. Dishes are perfectly portioned for sharing, with 5-6 dishes ideal for two. Secret Manchester recommendations include the peri peri chicken, pork skewers, pepper croquetas and even the pan-fried tender stem broccoli – which is fried with chilli and garlic and surprisingly flavourful. The restaurant serves a ‘tipsy tapas’ every weekend, and has a brilliant wine menu with some beautiful European options. Canto, Cutting Room Square, Blossom St, Ancoats, Manchester, M4 5DH.