Seeing a show? We all know that you're going to need the finest grub to fuel your evening out, but where to go? Don't worry; we're here to narrow it down for you. From Indian restaurants to steakhouses, Spanish spots and more beside, here are the best places for pre-theatre dinner in Manchester.
Last edited by Lauren Cole
Serving pre-theatre dinner in Manchester city centre, Gaucho has to make our list both for its set menu and proximity to Royal Exchange Theatre. Check them out to chow down on a £25 two-course feast or three for £28 - think seabass ceviche, a choice of steaks and burgers too.
While there's no set offering for theatre-goers, Banyan Spinningfields is still just a stone's throw from the Opera House. Not only are the plates here pocket-friendly, but they span everything from lighter bites like the California sushi bowl to gourmet burgers.
Pre-Theatre Menu | 2 course £23.95 | 3 course £27.95 and 2 other offers
The Don Giovanni Manchester pre-theatre menu consists of two courses for £22.95 or three priced at 27.95. Think dishes like bruschetta or calamari to start, with lasagne, gnocchi, pizza and more for mains, at this swish Italian spot near Palace Theatre.
Found in the Corn Exchange, just a short stroll from Royal Exchange Theatre, Mowgli is a winner. Not only are all the Indian small plates here packed with flavour, but this street food-style grub is designed to share, so your group can try plenty across the menu.
For a cheap pre-theatre dinner in Manchester, check out Lime Restaurant and Bar. Ideally located for before a trip to The Lowry, it's got harissa lamb chops, greek mezze sharing platters and rump steak on the menu.
The 20 Stories pre-theatre menu changes every month, promising the latest seasonal grub across a sophisticated set offering. You'll be dining in the clouds here, before heading over to your show.
While a live music and late-night joint at heart, The Blues Kitchen is still worth a look for your early evening meal - especially considering it's practically opposite the Opera House. Expect slow 'n' slow cooked meats and burgers, all washed down by margs or bourbon-laced cocktails.
The Hawksmoor pre-theatre menu in Manchester is one of the city's most popular, and it's not hard to see why. Thanks two courses for £26 or three coming in at £29 each, it's an absolute steal for the quality of steak, fish and sticky toffee sundaes.
Craving Spanish food before your trip out to a show? La Bandera has your back. There's a £38 paella for two with a glass of wine per person, while six tapas plates to share and a serving of vino each is just £40.
Thanks to being right inside The Lowry's theatre, Pier Eight is the most convenient of choices when heading here for a performance. From vegan mushroom shawarma to lamb rump, the menu is varied - setting you back £27.50 for two courses and £33.50 for three.
If you're looking for a pre-theatre dinner near Palace Theatre Manchester, take a peek at Bundobust Brewery. Not only will there be fresh craft pints brewed on-site, but also a choice of affordable Indian street food dishes to accompany.
When only the best pre-theatre dinner in Manchester will do, Asha's should be on your radar. This Indian fine dining destination delves out sharing platters to start, your pick of butter chicken, lamb rogan josh and paneer jalfrezi for mains, and a traditional dessert to finish - all priced at just £24.95 per person.
Just a hop, skip and jump from King's Arms, where you'll find a cool theatre space, The Black Friar Salford is an equal. While there's no set menu, the gastro pub grub, stunning spaces, range of pints and signature cocktails are sure to impress.
With a set bistro offering until 7pm on Fridays and 8.30pm on other weekdays, Kala is vowing for the title of best early bird menu in Manchester for 2023. Two courses are £25, while three will cost you £28 - both of which feature British and European fare.
Despite the lack of a specific pre-theatre menu for The Ivy Manchester, it's still a really popular place to head before the curtain goes up. Whether you pick the stunning rooftop space, the Asian restaurant or ground floor brasserie, the meals here will make your mouth water.
When it comes to the best pre-theatre menu in Manchester, Zouk has got to be up there. Get your chops around the Indian grub here, with two courses setting you back just £20 between 4 and 7pm. It covers all mains (including your choice of side to accompany), starters and desserts, so the choices are plentiful.
After The Refuge pre-theatre menu in Manchester? While there isn't a set offering, being opposite Palace Theatre still gives this swish venue an edge. Small plates are the name of the game here, with char sui-braised pork collar, red lentil dhal and tiger prawns all making the list.
