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From soulful Spanish tapas to comforting plates of handmade pasta, Greater Manchester’s independent food scene has once again proved it’s among the best in the country.
The Good Food Guide has unveiled its 2025 list of the UK’s 100 Best Local Restaurants, and several much-loved spots across the region have made the cut, reaffirming what Mancunians already know: we’re spoilt for choice when it comes to brilliant, affordable food made with heart.
Which Manchester restaurants made The Good Food Guide’s 100 best local restaurants?
Delicious dining at the Stretford Canteen
Topping the list locally is Stretford Canteen, a neighbourhood bistro flying the flag for modern Anglo-French cooking. It’s been praised not only for its menu, but also for keeping things refreshingly affordable.
Over in Chorlton, cult favourite Bar San Juan continues to win admirers for its lively atmosphere and authentic Spanish small plates, proof that the classics never go out of style.
Joining them on this year’s list is The Spärrows, a hidden gem in the city centre serving Eastern and Central European specialities like spätzle, pelmeni, and hand-rolled pasta with a cult following. South of the city, Levenshulme’s beloved Cibus was also recognised for its pared-back Italian cooking and down-to-earth charm.
The Sparrows is one of Manchester’s best kept secrets
Further out in Prestwich, Lupo was named the North West’s overall winner, a huge achievement for the cosy Italian cafe known for its unapologetically old-school approach and fuss-free hospitality. It’s a reminder that atmosphere, authenticity, and honest food often matter more than frills.
A bit of Spanish sunshine in Chorlton
Also flying the flag for the region were Cantaloupe in Stockport.
A bit further out, Â Sé Anār in Blackpool made the list, alongside notable mentions from further afield including Belzan in Liverpool and The Yan in Grasmere.
How do the Good Food Guide pick their restaurants?
Now in its 15th year, the Good Food Guide’s local restaurant list is built on tens of thousands of public nominations, with each final pick visited anonymously by one of the guide’s inspectors. The focus? Great food at fair prices. In a year where more than half of diners said eating out felt unaffordable, this year’s guide champions restaurants where a brilliant meal won’t break the bank.
“These restaurants exemplify the kind of value and vibrancy we’re seeing from the UK’s local food scenes,” said Elizabeth Carter, the guide’s editor-at-large. “They’re proof that eating well doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.”
The UK’s overall winner for 2025 is Lucky Lychee, a Malaysian neighbourhood restaurant in Winchester known for its bold Nyonya flavours and warm welcome.
But here in Greater Manchester, we’ve got plenty to celebrate, once again proving that great food, great people, and great value are what make our city’s restaurant scene so special.
You can check out the full list by clicking here
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