The best independent restaurants in Manchester.

If you like your meals with a touch of theatre, then Teppanyaki Chinatown is definitely the place for you. Named after the exhilarating style of cuisine that gets its diners excited, Teppanyaki means "grilling on an iron plate", and that's just what you'll get. 

Visiting here is as much an experience as it is a feast, as you’ll get to watch high-quality, delicious food prepared right before your eyes by their talented chefs. Free-range eggs and chicken from Cumbria, 28-day aged beef from English and Scottish farms, and multi-award-winning Loch Duart salmon are but a handful of the ingredients they use. 

There are tons of sushi dishes to pick from too, plus plenty of hot appetisers, and veggie-friendly dishes. There really is something for everyone to try. Serving outstanding Japanese cuisine whilst offering a glimpse into teppanyaki cooking culture, we think Teppanyaki Chinatown is one of Manchester’s best independent restaurants.

Offer: 2 for 1 meals from Sunday to  Thursday.

For the sweet, sunny taste of España, head to Evuna on Deansgate. Spoilt for choice is an understatement when it comes to their menu, treating foodies to a selection of classics like paella, fish and meat dishes, and our favourite: tapas.

Located on the longest road in the city centre, Evuna serve an authentic & delicious fresh tapas menu, as well as their famous boutique wine and premium Spanish draft beer.

Whether you’re stopping by for a snack and a drink at the bar, or gathering together for a big tapas spread, you’re sure to love it here. Top tip: if you skip straight to the tapas section, make sure Carrillada de Cerdo (Iberian Pork Cheeks, for non-Spanish speakers, like us) is one of the 547 dishes you order!

Offer: 2 for 1 meals from Sunday to  Thursday.

If it’s Italian you fancy, you need to book a visit to Italiana Fifty Five to get your taste bud-tingling fix! Previously named Cibo, the restaurant is located just off Deansgate on Liverpool Road and brings a taste of Naples to Manchester city centre. Italiana Fifty Five is a delightful little place, offering Mediterranean charm and a menu of mouth-watering Italian classics. With stonebaked pizzas, fresh fish delivered daily, flame-grilled steaks, and a whole host of fantastic vegan options, we can guarantee there’s a dish for you. 

The restaurant is on the doorstep of the Manchester Opera House, Bridgewater Hall, and the Great Northern cinema complex, making it a fabulous place to visit for a pre-show meal or after a day of exploring the city. Wondering what to order? We love a dish that comes with a bit of theatrics, so we’d recommend ordering the Penne Reggiano. This indulgent pasta dish is flambéed in a giant cheese wheel right at your table to create a creamy cheese lover's dream – our mouths are watering at the thought. Book your visit to sample all of their tasty dishes today at this pick from our Manchester independent restaurants not to miss!

Offer: 2 for 1 meals from Sunday to Thursday.

One of the absolute best independent restaurants in Manchester for pie lovers, Pie & Ale is a cosy little restaurant where the warmest of welcomes is extended to all. Handcrafted on-site, Pie & Ale Manchester serves the best pies for miles around - it’s a fact. And, with meat, veggie, and vegan options available, every foodie’s pastry craving is satisfied. 

Our favourite is the mighty Sunday Roast Pie, served with maple-glazed root veg, creamy leeks, mash, stuffing, gravy, and a big Yorkshire pudding on top…the ultimate comfort food! And for the perfect accompaniment, sample one (or more) of their great selection of local and international real ales. Plan your visit today and enjoy superb discounts with tastecard.

Offer: 2 for 1 meals from Sunday to Thursday.