Exploring Street Food in Manchester

Join us as we take a deep dive into the city’s diverse eateries. From GRUB flavours, to Street Feast, and the famous Arndale Market, there really is something for everybody’s taste buds. And if you happen to be looking for a property to rent in Manchester, these hot spots are but a stone’s throw away from an UNCLE home.

The best street food in Manchester

GRUB

GRUB is a vibrant outdoor snack venue and events space located in Manchester’s Green Quarter, specifically at 50 Red Bank, Cheetham Hill, M4 4HF. Established in 2014, GRUB has grown to become the cornerstone of independent meals and culture.

Working on a weekly rotating line-up of vendors from Wednesday to Sunday, you can expect a diverse range of choices from pizzas, burgers, tacos, to Japanese treats, Jamaican dumplings, and Korean and Chinese offerings. In addition, there are meat and vegan choices, plus a fully stocked bar with craft beers, spirits, cocktails, wine, and soda. There’s a variety of alcohol-free options as well. You really are spoiled for choice.

Street Feast

Street Feast, also known as The Great Street Feast, is an annual ticketed charity event in Manchester. For one night only, six acclaimed chefs cook gourmet delights in aid of the charity Freedom From Torture. The event is held to raise money to support asylum seekers and refugees who have suffered torture.

This year's event will take place on 10th October, and attendees can expect meals cooked by renowned chefs such as Sam Bukley, Sam Grainger, Maray, Dishoom, The Little Sri Lankan, and Survivor Chef Nafa. Get ready to enjoy flavours from the Middle East, Sri Lanka, and Indian sweet treats. Tickets for this sought-after evening are priced at £55.

Arndale Market

Arndale Market, situated within Manchester’s Arndale Centre, is a vibrant hub offering a diverse range of permanent grub and retail experiences. Boasting a single-floor layout since 2006, visitors can expect a diverse range of international street edibles. Fancy a pancho’s burritos - Mexican style, or a viet shack, Vietnamese favours, or Wholesome Junkies - plant-based delights. There’s even Zorbas, traditional Greek options, Holy Crab, seafood delights, and Onje - delicious African-Caribbean meals. You‘re spoiled for choice in this mecca of tantalisers.

The Arndale Market is also home to more traditional vendors, showcasing fresh meats, seafood, fruits and vegetables. It's truly your one-stop shop for everyday shoppers and culinary enthusiasts.

Must-Try Cuisines & Dishes

It’s fair to say that you haven’t really tried street nosh if you haven’t dived into the local and classic dishes. We’re talking loaded fries, popular at spots like GRUB or Freight Island. Why not indulge in some Korean BBQ loaded fries, or Halloumi or Vegan Shawarma fries? Highly delightful and very customisable.

Bao Buns and Asian Eats continue their popularity. We recommend trying pork belly bao with hoisin sauce and pickled cucumber, or Gyoza dumplings with chilli oil. Another in-demand combo is Katsu curry wraps or Korean fried chicken - all considered finger-licking goodies.

Or perhaps you can’t wait to enjoy the classic Manchester Tart, including a pastry base with jam layer, custard, and coconut sprinkled on the top - yum yum.

Lastly, we can’t end this section without mentioning the artisan pizza, a firm favourite among meal connoisseurs. There’s a growing number of independent pizzerias crafting hand-stretched, wood-fired, and sourdough-based bases. Pop into Rudy’s Neapolitan Pizza on Peter Street, Didsbury, for a classic Margherita pizza or a Calabrese topped with spicy ’ nduja and fior di latte.

When it comes to eating, we encourage you to try different vendors and be adventurous and creative. Here’s your opportunity to try a diverse range of cuisines and combinations you wouldn’t normally do. It’s all about having fun and being curious.

Tips for the Best Street Food Experience

With so much to see and eat, we advise that you turn out to these street events with an empty stomach. You want to try as much new grub as possible. Also, be sure to bring both cash and a card; most vendors accept both, but it’s best to err on the side of caution.

Another tip is to make a day of it and go with a large group of friends. This way, you can taste and enjoy even more dishes. However, be sure to check out the different vendors' social media accounts as well. Most use social media to showcase the latest specials and any location changes.

Connecting to Manchester’s Vibe

Manchester’s street food scene is a reflection of the city’s dynamic, creative and independent spirit. It also depicts the rich tapestry of multiculturalism that runs through this wonderful city. Nowhere harnesses the social aspect of enjoying a meal and connecting with the community quite like Manchester. This great northern city certainly knows how to party and bring people together.

Hungry for more than just great food? Discover your perfect place in Manchester, and live steps away from the city’s most delicious street eats. Explore UNCLE’s properties in Manchester today!