Best For Lunch In Manchester

Looking for the best affordable restaurants in Manchester? Not only does the weekday lunch menu only set guests back a mere £5 at Dog Bowl, but you can finish off your meal with a dose of bowling at this unique activity hub.

On Sundays from noon to 5pm, James Martin Restaurant is slinging out a three-course menu for £30. This celebrity-owned joint has a sophisticated ambience, complete with decadent prints, exposed brick walls and the lip-smacking food to match.

Their food photography isn't trying to fool you, Banyan's grub really is that delicious. A great place to have lunch in Manchester, not only can Banyan in the Corn Exchange churn out charming plates of internationally loved chow, there are also stunning cocktails and beers to boot. 

Treat yourself to something beyond a soggy sandwich this month and head over to Mowgli where they're offering unique tiffin boxes and other lunchtime treats. Tuck into small plates and fresh lassi, or crack on with an aromatic prawn curry.

Located close to Piccadilly Gardens, ASK Italian is a casual spot that's perfect for lunch. The spacious venue is filled with natural light from their huge windows, as well as pretty greenery and fairy lights.

There's all sorts to choose from on their extensive menu, which is full of tasty Italian treats. Indulge in spicy prawn piccante pizzas, sea bass al forno, aubergine parmigiana ravioli and so much more, with delicious sundaes for dessert.

If you're on the hunt for cool lunch places in Manchester, look no further than Foundry Project. Flaunting ambient lighting, leather seating and delish cocktails, it's ideal for a long lunch with pals. As for food, we recommend trying the chrorizo burger or goat cheese pizza.

Located on Oxford Road, Don Giovanni is a swish and stylish restaurant - perfect for those mid-afternoon hunger pangs. Tuck into wood-fired pizzas, alongside truffle fries and fresh spinach with chilli. The best for lunch in Manchester city centre? It's definitely up there.

Located on Fountain Street, Doghouse is giving you everything you need for an excellent afternoon of eating. BrewDog's iconic beer hotel fronts a taproom offering 30 types of craft beer, as well as droolworthy wings and burgers to pair.

If you work in Circle Square or near Oxford Road, or are just visiting the area on a weekend, Hello Oriental is the perfect stop-off at lunchtime - thanks to their express lunch menu. It's between £12 and £14 for a main dish with a soft drink or half-pint of lager, with dishes spanning katsu chicken uramaki, salt and pepper char siu chicken, Taiwanese pork belly lo mein and more.

Conveniently located a stone's throw from the shops, offices and neighbouring bars of Deansgate, this popular restaurant brings a slice of Cuban spice to Manchester city centre. In addition to thirst-quenching cocktails, the cantina menu of tapas-style sharing plates is ideal for a relaxed lunchtime.

The best places for lunch in Manchester city centre? You'll get just that over at Grand Pacific. Along with a scrumptious Sunday roast, the haunt has a 2-course business special for £17.95. Impress your colleagues with veggie gyozas and chargrilled seabass.

Craving comfort food? You can't go wrong with Honest Burgers. Sink your teeth into classic beef, chicken or vegan patties while scarfing down rosemary fries. And when the sun comes out, we recommend nestling into the venue's cosy rooftop.

They're renowned for roaring DJ nights and pocket-friendly drinks deals, but this Deansgate Locks joint also knows a thing or two about a good lunch. Dosing you on American chow, grab burgers, pizzas and more at this firm favourite.

Whether you're after a girly lunch in Manchester or a quick bite with a colleague, Australasia promises a fabulous meal in stunning interiors. Grab three plates for £18 from Monday to Friday as you get stuck into pork wontons, fresh tuna and squid with a killer sriracha mayo.

Go all-out for lunchtime with a trip to Wing Fest this September, taking place at Victoria Baths. There'll be a huge selection of chicken wings sold for just £1.50 a pop, across three categories: Buffalo, barbecue and wild wings. Vote for your favourites at the end, and one vendor will be crowned the winner of each section.

Want to get your money's worth? Then take part in one of their eating competitions or hot sauce challenges. Your ticket will also get you access to other fun entertainment - think axe throwing, arcade games, live music and DJ sets.

For those searching far and wide for a cheap lunch in Manchester, you can enjoy a top-notch Italian meal at a budget-friendly price. We recommend grabbing the venue's two-course menu for less than £20. You'll be feasting on fresh bruschetta and sumptuous pasta in no time.

A cool social space and restaurant that flaunts checkered floors, comfy velvet sofas and gorgeous greenery, Side Street can be found in Spinningfields. Expect a vibrant atmosphere, with live music on a regular basis.

Sip a refreshing pint, spritz cocktail or soft drink, while devouring dishes like squash salad, macaroni cheese or steak sandwiches.

New York style, The Pen & Pencil is close to the city centre and great for a shopping pit stop or work break. The lunch and brunch menu is served from 10am to 5pm and features dishes such as a burger. Want something light? The smoothies are to die for.

If you love a good set lunch menu in Manchester, Gaucho is coming up trumps. Nab two courses for £27 (or three for £30) as you munch on the likes of beetroot ceviche, juicy rump steaks and an indulgent chocolate volcano with pistachio ice cream.

Fancy a lunch date in insanely beautiful surroundings? Make your way to Sexy Fish in Spinningfields, the swish sister site of the swanky Mayfair haunt. Try out their two-course lunch set menu, featuring goodies like spicy prawn noodles, Japanese wagyu, salmon tartare with Korean spice, and crispy truffled tofu served alongside complimentary miso soup and steamed rice. And the best part? It's priced at just £28 per person.