At Secret Manchester, we’re a team of proud and passionate Mancs who love discovering the best of what the city and the Greater Manchester region has to offer. From checking out the newest openings to discovering those lesser-known spots full of character, we’re on an endless journey to bring you the best insider tips, plans, and inspiration in Manchester. And now, we’re making it a whole lot easier for you to do the same!
We’re launching a new project and leaving our mark on every corner of the city. From family-owned restaurants to fun-filled entertainment venues, we’re giving our Secret Manchester stamp of approval on all our favourite spots that deserve your support!
So when you’re on your next outing around town, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for those beautiful bright cherry red stickers decorating business window fronts. If you spot our Secret Manchester stamp of approval you’ll be sure to know that it’s your next must-visit destination.
1. Purezza
Purely plant-based pizza restaurant Purezza became the first pizzeria of its kind in the UK, and as a result – it’s gained quite the cult following, especially in Manchester. And while Manchester is most definitely blessed with an array of fantastic vegan options, Purezza really does offer something a little different, with flavours and toppings that really make you forget about the fact that there’s absolutely no meat involved in your meal. Think vegan ‘nduja and even a BBQ pulled porketta designed to rival actual meat all on gorgeously baked bases.
Location: 75-77 High Street, Northern Quarter, M4 1FS
2. Provence
Provence, located in the Manchester business district of Spinningfields, has a non-traditional approach to wine, where guests select from a menu categorised by ‘wine occasions’ as opposed to a typical region or flavour profile. Whether it’s a catch-up with friends, a date night spot or a post-work pick-me-up with colleagues, the uniquely grouped wine menu will match the perfect wine to your mood. Better still, you can select wine from the ‘wine jukebox’, enjoy a charcuterie board as well as have a sing-a-long with Provence’s ‘wine-oke’.
Location: 3 Hardman Street, Spinningfields, M3 3HF
3. The Oast House
Another Spinningfields spot worth making a beeline for is The Oast House. Whether you’re huddling around the fire in their twinkling, fairy light-clad tipi in the winter months, curled up inside the main pub or sipping on a spritz on the terrace during the summer months, The Oast House has got you covered for all seasons and climates. This Manchester pub is the perfect escapism despite being in the heart of the city.
Location: The Avenue Courtyard, Spinningfields, M3 3AY
4. Junkyard Golf Club
For plenty of fun and games in Manchester there’s Junkyard Golf. Activities in the city needn’t have to break the bank and this crazy golf venue is an affordable and amusing option for mates dates, team nights out and first dates as you putt you way around the weird and wonderful holes on the course. Thrown in some fun cocktails topped with sweets and a bright and colourful bar to hang out in post-game and it’s a hole in one!
Location: 2 First Street, M15 4RP
5. El Gato Negro
One of the top tapas restaurants in Manchester that you need to tap up is El Gato Negro. Combining both modern and traditional Spanish flavours, guests can enjoy dishes such as truffle salami, salt cod croquetas and braised ox cheek. The restaurant is a real social space, even including a suntrap of a rooftop terrace, which almost feels like you’ve been transported to the bustling city of Barcelona.
Location: 52 King St, M2 4LY