Best places to eat out over summer in Manchester

Located in the Northern Quarter, Disorder is a love letter to Mancunian music. When you walk in, you will likely see posters of Joy Division, Stone Roses and New Order and hear their beautiful tunes. Disorder has two floors with the bottom floor being a lot larger than you’ll originally expect when you walk in. The bottom floor is where the live music happens, alongside club nights featuring acid house, Madchester and all things Factory Records. Everything from the chairs to the design of the toilets is modern and new, yet the place has a nostalgic feel to it. Only opening in 2023, this is a perfect summer location for food, drinks and a boogie. Speaking of the food, the gyozas, tostadas and sandos are delicious. The smoked watermelon and halloumi sando is especially worth trying, it is simply gorgeous.

Eating at The Smithfield Social in Manchester during the summer is a real treat. Right in the lively Northern Quarter, the outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying the sunshine and watching the world go by. The menu is packed with fresh, seasonal dishes that are perfect for warm weather, whether you’re grabbing a light salad, a tasty brunch, or a cool cocktail. The laid-back vibe and friendly atmosphere make it a great spot to hang out with friends or just relax on your own. With the summer sun adding to the charm, every visit feels special.

While the interior balcony overlooking the atrium is a favourite all year round, the Cosy Club’s outdoor space is a must-visit in the summer. At Cosy Club, which is located in the iconic Corn Exchange, you can enjoy dishes like paprika Spanish chicken and the vegan Cosy cheeseburger, as well as a range of delicious brunch dishes. There’s also plenty of cocktails and mocktails, such as the refreshing Morning Cooler with lemon, elderflower, mint, soda, and cucumber, which you can enjoy while making the most of the warmer weather. 

At Rudy’s, the relaxed, welcoming vibe extends to the outdoor seating – perfect for enjoying warm weather and delicious Neapolitan pizzas. Using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques, the pizzas have a perfect, airy crust with just the right amount of char from the wood-fired oven. The summer menu includes classics like Margherita and Marinara, along with seasonal specials that highlight the best summer produce. With the sun shining and a refreshing drink in hand, dining at Rudy’s in the square during summer feels like a little slice of Italy right in Manchester’s self-proclaimed Italian Quarter.

Located in the lively Northern Quarter, Cane & Grain boasts a fantastic outdoor terrace that’s perfect for soaking up the sun. Known for its mouthwatering barbecue dishes and extensive drink menu, you can enjoy everything from juicy ribs and pulled beef fries to refreshing craft beers and creative cocktails. The laid-back, fun atmosphere is enhanced by the warm weather, making it a great spot to hang out with friends or unwind after a long day. With the summer breeze and the lively street scene, Cane & Grain offers a vibrant, relaxed dining experience that’s hard to beat.

Despite the age-old myth that oysters should only be enjoyed in months that include an ‘R,’ the delicate flavours that come from fresh seafood are a staple on any summer menu. While Manchester might not be famed for its proximity to the ocean, The Oystercatcher in Chorlton is sure to be a hit this summer with its laidback atmosphere and the moreish aroma of grilled fish. The menu changes with the tide at The Oystercatcher, offering a variety of fresh and seasonal fish and seafood at an affordable price. From adored British classics to continental dishes such as Moules Frites, the neighbourhood bistro promises to share the delights of the coastline with the local community in Chorlton. Cooked above glowing coals in a charcoal oven, the food here is served simply, with the flavours doing the talking and a bold wine list to match.

Street Urchin is a must visit restaurant, located in between Ancoats and the Northern Quarter. It’s the perfect place for a date or for a get-together with a small group of friends. Street Urchin is a British seafood restaurant that oozes class. This vibrant and eclectic venue offers a unique fusion of delectable cuisine, lively atmosphere and captivating entertainment. Indulge in mouthwatering dishes crafted with locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the city’s culinary diversity. Now, these guys change their menu most weeks, so we cannot advises what you should get. There might be an amazing new dish that we just don’t know about, so don’t be afraid to ask the lovely staff about the dishes to make your mind up on what to order. Some great options they’ve previously done involve mussels, crab, roast hake and roast monkfish. The dishes are a mix of beautiful sauces, vegetables and often fish and meat. However, there will be plenty of vegetarian options available as well.

Canto is a Mediterranean small plates restaurant that is a perfect summer meal outside. In 2018, Canto was opened in Ancoats’ Cutting Room Square by famous chef and restauranteur, Simon Shaw and head chef Carlos Gomes. Their food showcases the Mediterranean influences that inspired this restaurant to be created. The dishes are designed to be shared and are made with fresh and high-quality ingredients, sourced both locally and in the rest of Europe. The main menu is separated by petiscos, meat, seafood, vegetables and, of course, desserts. All consist of small dishes that are to be shared with a guide of five to six dishes per two people. From patatas bravas to octopus with new potatos, Italian meatballs and braised ox cheek, the food is stunning and sumptuous. The cheeseboard is a must have summer treat, too. This has some of our favourite cheeses in the world, such as manchego, the local Lancashire bomb and the wonderful Monte Enebro. If you decide to visit Canto, the team will provide you a gorgeous summer meal with friends.

GRUB is Manchester’s largest food venue and events space, hosting many wonderful food stalls and events. It’s situated in the Green Quarter, north of Ancoats, and is a fabulous destination for outside food and drinks due to the brilliant outdoor seating that is available. From street food to an awesome beer garden, this place is perfect for many different get-togethers. GRUB is innovative in the events it hosts. For example, Bored of Dating Apps, GRUB Food Fair, Disco Bingo and Sip and Paint with Music are some of the regular events. Some great street food options include Gatto Pizza, Jeyda’s Turkish Kitchen, Wong Dumplings, Ruben’s Vegano and Diamond Dogs. GRUB is a truly fabulous location for many summer scenarios.

As well as the brewery on Oxford Street, Bundobust also has another location in Piccadilly. This uber cool, ultra innovative venue is a fusion of craft beer brewery, Indian cuisine and vegan / vegetarian dishes. The result is an original Indian street food and craft beer hall, and a perfect one for summer at that! Expect vibrant Indian street food served with some amazing beers in a friendly communal space. Not one to miss.