Ready to soak up the rare Manchester rays? We can hardly blame ya. And if you’re gonna do it, you may as well do it in style from one of the city’s most luxurious restaurants. From glittering 360 views of Manchester to hidden sanctuaries that feel like a trip to Spain, here’s our guide to the best rooftop restaurants to try right here in Manchester.
1. 20 Stories
One of the most luxurious rooftop restaurants in Manchester, 20 Stories is the perfect place for a fancy dinner on a summer’s day, with quite possibly the most stunning views of the city to boot. There, guests can enjoy 360-degree views of Manchester, alongside tasty a la carte dishes including lobster, fillet steak, monkfish, guinea fowl and all the special dishes you’d expect from somewhere so extravagant. 20 Stories, NO. 1, 1 Hardman Square, M3 3EB.
2. The Ivy
Busy, bustling, botanical and simply beautiful, The Ivy’s rooftop is the perfect spot for a Saturday night dinner. Whether it’s to fuel up for your night out, or it’s the highlight of your evening, The Ivy suits every vibe – and boasts a casual brasserie menu to enjoy whatever the occasion. Whether it’s a good bitta steak you fancy or a classic Shepherd’s Pie, there’s tons to choose from. The Ivy Spinningfields, The Pavilion, Byrom St, M3 3HG.
3. Doghouse
The Doghouse‘s rooftop is a real suntrap, with not only tons of delicious Brewdog beers to enjoy, but tacos and churros, too. Can’t get any more summery than that. Get stuck into fillings such as crispy fried chicken, blackened cajun cod, chipotle and black pepper corn or Birria brisket. Once you’ve tried those, tucked into the delicious sugared churros, dipped in a Nutella and mascarpone dip. BrewDog Doghouse, 18-20 Fountain St, M2 2AR.
4. El Gato Negro
El Gato Negro’s intimate rooftop terrace is like Manchester’s very own slice of España, better still, you’ll find it in the Michelin Guide as an affordable spot to dine at. A stunning little suntrap where guests can tuck into some of the city’s best tapas dishes. From classics such as chargrilled octopus and baby squid to patatas bravas and Catalan chorizo, there are plenty of yummy small plates to try, alongside sangrias, sherry and tons of refreshing wines. El Gato Negro, 52 King St, M2 4LY.
5. Tre Ciccio
Hopping across the Med for a different flavour, Tre Ciccio is one of Alty’s most-loved Italian spots – and it’s easy to see why. Boasting an intimate rooftop that’s hidden away from the busy streets down below, the restaurant serves up plenty of tasty dishes that are perfect for summer, including an array of Neapolitan style pizzas, classic Italian roast chicken and potatoes and plenty of tasty side dishes for when you simply fancy grazing. Tre Ciccio, 4a Moss Ln, Altrincham, WA14 1BA.
6. Climat
Climat is Manchester’s wine-led restaurant from the team behind Chester’s beloved Michelin Guide restaurant, Covino. Situated on the eighth floor of Blackfriars House, the French restaurant offers stunning panoramic views of the city and has an outdoor terrace where you can enjoy ‘Parisian-expat food’ including unbelievable vol-au-vents paired with incredible wines. Climat, 8th Floor, Blackfriars House, St Mary’s Parsonage, M3 2JA.
7. The Con Club
Another Altrincham gem, The Con Club boasts a real suntrap of a rooftop terrace, where guests can kick back with a cocktail and catch some rays. What used to be a working men’s Conservative club has been transformed into a stunning industrial-style restaurant, serving a Britain-meets-Japan menu of upscale dishes such as sushi, Yakatori beef, duck breast in a red wine sauce and salt and pepper tofu. The Con Club, 48 Greenwood St, Altrincham, WA14 1RZ.