17 Sep 2024
Manchester's best roasts
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Sunday roast or more of a modern twist on this British classic, foodie haven Manchester is simply teeming with fabulous and diverse roast dinner spots. We’ve got family-friendly places, swanky restaurants and vibrant neighbourhood bistros serving roasts with Middle Eastern and Mediterranean twists! So, without further ado, here are our top places to grab a tasty Sunday dinner in Manchester.
Elnecot has received accolades for its Sunday roast, having been named as one of the top 10 in the UK – so you can guarantee this roast will knock your socks off! This popular neighbourhood bar and kitchen in Ancoats is big on local produce and heritage foods, so expect high quality British-reared meats, and fresh, seasonal vegetables on the roast menu. You’ll have the choice of dry-aged Wagyu topside beef, confit leg of roast chicken, slow-roasted crispy pork belly, slow-cooked shoulder of lamb or a nut roast which can be made vegetarian or vegan. All roasts come with cauliflower cheese, Yorkshire puddings, stuffing, vegetables and a rich gravy. There’s also a fab kid’s roast for half price, plus it’s a dog-friendly venue, so everyone’s welcome to join in the fun!
Located within Manchester’s bustling arts hub, HOME Bar & Kitchen offers a Sunday lunch experience that is as refined as it is comforting. The restaurant’s menu seamlessly blends the familiarity of traditional British roasts with modern twists, making it a top choice for both locals and visitors. What sets HOME apart is its commitment to quality and diversity, offering options like slow-roasted lamb and chargrilled vegetables, ensuring there’s something for everyone. The airy, contemporary space, combined with a menu that caters to various dietary preferences, makes it a perfect spot to enjoy a leisurely Sunday meal, whether you’re pre-theatre or just looking to indulge in a relaxed dining experience.
Fancy something a bit different? Well, head on down to Maray for a Middle Eastern take on a roast dinner! Inspired by Le Marais quarter in Paris, Maray boasts a bright and vibrant interior, deliciously aromatic food, an extensive wine list as well as a range of signature and classic cocktails – including some incredible non-alcoholic options. On the Maray roast menu, you’ll have the choice of a zesty lemon, za’atar and saffron roasted chicken, a spiced chickpea nut roast or a succulent roast rump of Cumbrian beef. Each option comes served with crispy fenugreek potatoes, a selection of vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. And if that wasn’t enough to win you over, Maray is committed to sustainability, green energy and ethical practices, which also gets a big tick from us!
Inspired by the iconic TV series of the same name, Peaky Blinders delivers more than just ambiance; it offers a robust Sunday lunch that has quickly become a favourite in the city. The menu reflects hearty, traditional British fare with a modern edge, perfect for those who crave a satisfying meal in a unique setting. The standout feature of the Sunday lunch is the attention to detail – whether it’s the perfectly cooked roast beef, the crispy Yorkshire puddings, or the rich, flavourful gravy that ties it all together. The setting, with its nods to 1920s Birmingham and the show’s gritty charm, provides an immersive dining experience that makes every Sunday feel special.
Take an old fashioned Georgian pub and give it a Northern Quarter twist – that’s what you get at The Bay Horse Tavern. The weekend roasts include a juicy rotisserie roast chicken or tender beef sirloin, or for the veggies dishes include the mushroom wellington. Each is served with all the trimmings including fluffy Yorkshires. If you’ve still somehow got room afterwards, indulge in a pud from the specials board, or just loosen the button on your jeans and settle in with a pint instead.
Another venue with a great reputation, not just locally, but recognised by the Observer Food Monthly awards too! Not only does TNQ cover meat and veggie dishes, but fish options as well. It’s always worth a visit, whether it’s Sunday or not, and either way, booking is definitely recommended.
Trof has been serving its signature roast for over a decade now, and its reputation for portion size and gravy is well earned. Not only that, but it’s served with a side of music, meaning that you really don’t want to rush this one. Usual choices are chicken, beef and pork, plus a veggie option, but keep an eye on the specials too. One of the best spots for a Sunday roast in Manchester!
Colleens is a local neighbourhood restaurant in the heart of Ramsbottom. It’s got a seasonally changing food and drink menu, and an unmissable Sunday menu, too. The restaurant is spread over two floors: The Ground Floor is the entrance level, which overlooks the high street and has the bar area and kitchen; the Downstairs Level offers more seating and is perfect for a more private and cosy dining experience.
The Waterside Hotel in Didsbury is a hidden gem in Manchester’s dining scene, especially for Sunday lunch. The menu showcases classic British fare, with offerings like rump roasted beef, honey and mustard glazed gammon, and a succulent roasted chicken breast. What elevates the experience is the attention to detail – each meal is served with perfectly crispy Yorkshire puddings, rich gravy, and a variety of seasonal vegetables. For vegetarians, the Wild Mushroom Wellington is a standout. The setting, combined with the quality of the food, makes the Waterside Hotel a top choice for a relaxed yet indulgent Sunday lunch.