Restaurants on King Street

Ian Jones, Food and Drink Editor

Our guide to the best restaurants on King Street. One of Manchester’s go-to areas for those looking for high-end cuisine in stylish surroundings. Indeed, everything about this short but perfectly-formed strip says luxury. Alongside these superb restaurants, you’ll find all manner of shops catering for those who like the finer things in life, whether that be watches or handbags. But that’s by the by, you’re here because you want to eat, and it’s quite likely you want to eat the best.

If that’s the case, don’t worry, we have everything you need here. From high-end tasting menus to fantastic tapas options, to classic English cuisine, and even taking in Italian food (courtesy of one of the UK’s best former Premier League footballers) and, er, sausage and mash. Whatever you’re looking for, you’ll no doubt find it here. And it’s not all for those with deep pockets either, there are plenty of affordable options, particularly if you’re looking for a light lunchtime bite to eat.

These are just some of the highlights of the constantly-growing food scene on King Street. Try them all. Trust us, you won’t regret it.

Our top picks

Tast Cuina Catalana

Tast Cuina Catalana, 20-22 King Street, Manchester, M2 6AG - Visit now

Tast is probably the most high-profile restaurant on King Street, thanks to both renowned Head Chef Paco Perez and the backing of Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola. Here you’ll find a selection of Catalan – not Spanish – dishes that always manage to impress. Feeling flush? Head upstairs for Tast Exanata, arguably the best tasting menu in the city.

Arros De Verdures, rice, vegetables, herb mayo

Kala Bistro

Kala Bistro, 55 King St, Manchester, M2 4LQ - Visit now

Kala is the latest restaurant from acclaimed chef-restaurateur Gary Usher, who also owns Sticky Walnut and Hispi. A welcome – and much-raved-about – addition to the ever-growing and improving King Street food scene.

Kala Bistro

El Gato Negro Tapas

El Gato Negro Tapas, 52 King Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M2 4LY - Visit now

El Gato Negro Tapas on King Street is one of Manchester’s most highly-rated restaurants, with their unique take on small plates receiving rave reviews across the city.

Grand Pacific

Grand Pacific, 50 Spring Gardens, Manchester, M2 1EN - Visit now

Grand Pacific is undoubtedly one of Manchester’s best looking rooms, warm and welcoming in the day, and with a secret speakeasy feel in the evening. The food is impressive, well-prepared, and isn’t scared to take risks. The drinks menu, on the other hand, is flawless. Go for the food, stay for the hard stuff.

Smokey Old-Fashioned

The Tavern at King Street Townhouse

The Tavern at King Street Townhouse, 10 Booth Street, Manchester, M2 4AW - Visit now

King Street Townhouse is one of Manchester’s most popular boutique hotels, along with a handful of other branches across the North West. This is the attached bar and restaurant, an elegant-looking room full of traditional design touches – perfect for that romantic night out.

King Street Tavern Hotel and restaurant in Manchester
King Street Tavern

Mash Tun

Mash Tun, 55 King St, Manchester, M2 4LQ - Visit now

Replacing Graphene, the highly-rated but unfortunately now-closed Graphene, Mash Tun is a little less high-end than the others on this list but nevertheless is worth a visit for a quick hearty meal.

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