Legendary restaurants in Manchester still going strong after all these years

Manchester’s dining scene is full of modern gems, but some restaurants have been around long enough to feel like old friends. Here’s a roundup of some of the oldest restaurants in Greater Manchester in age order, perfect if you’re after a taste of history along with your dinner.

Manchester’s hospitality sector has shown incredible resilience over the years. 

Pre-COVID, Greater Manchester’s tourism and hospitality scene contributed over £9.5 billion to the economy and supported around 100,000 jobs. While the pandemic caused the sector’s economic impact to fall to £3 billion in 2020 (Marketing Manchester), the city’s restaurants and venues have bounced back through sheer determination, adaptability and community support. 

Today, these longstanding restaurants continue to thrive, each adding to the city’s exciting and ever-evolving food scene with some of the best restaurants in Manchester.

Mr Thomas’s Chop House (est. 1867)

Tucked just off Cross Street, Mr Thomas’s has been dishing out hearty British fare for over 150 years. Inside, you’ll find beautiful Victorian tiles, cosy booths and that old-school charm that’s stood the test of time. The menu’s a classic. Think corned beef hash, steak and kidney pudding and a proper pint to wash it down.

You can book a table here

Sam’s Chop House (est. 1872)

A stone’s throw from Mr Thomas’s, Sam’s Chop House is another beloved Manchester institution. It’s been feeding hungry Mancunians since the 19th century, with a focus on traditional British dishes and comfort food done right. Expect a warm welcome, a pint of ale and some of the best corned beef hash around. All watched over by a statue of Salford’s favourite son, L.S Lowry.

You can book a table here

The Midland Hotel – The French (est. 1903)

The French, inside the iconic Midland Hotel, is a Manchester fine dining landmark. When it first opened in 1903, it was all about French haute cuisine, and it’s evolved into a top spot for modern British dining. The grandeur of the Midland adds to the magic – it’s one of those places where a meal feels like a real occasion.

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The Rice Bowl (est. 1960)

The Rice Bowl was set up by the Wing Lau family, who left Shanghai for England in the 1950s, escaping Chairman Mao’s Cultural Revolution. Originally landing in Liverpool in the 50s, the Lau family made their way to Cross Street in Manchester, where they’ve been serving up Chinese classics courtesy of the flamboyant Mr Wing. In 1988, Mr Wing’s niece came over from Shanghai to take over proceedings and has been at the helm ever since, although Mr Wing still occasionally pops in to see how they are getting on. 

You can book a table here

Rajdoot Tandoori (est. 1966)

Located under the depths of Albert Square, Rajdoot Tandoori is one of the oldest Indian restaurants in the city. Since 1966, they’ve been serving up tasty curries in an atmospheric spot decorated with Indian art and warm lighting. Perfect for a cosy night out.

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The Armenian Taverna (est. 1968)

The Armenian Taverna has been serving up Armenian icons like Kofta, and the incredible Yerevan khachapuri, which consists of a delicious brioche-style bread filled with cured beef, a three-cheese mix and an almost raw egg. Armenia’s neighbour, Georgia, is supposedly the birthplace of wine, and Armenia reportedly has the oldest winery in the world, so make sure if you go, you can try these unique tipples, oak-aged and delicious. 

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Topkapi Palace (est. 1979)

Established in 1979 by chef Seref Dursun, Topkapi Palace is Manchester’s oldest Turkish restaurant. Located on Deansgate, this family-run establishment has been serving authentic Turkish cuisine for over four decades, becoming a beloved fixture in the city’s dining scene.

You can book a table here

Kabana (est. 1983)

A beloved institution in the Northern Quarter, Kabana opened in 1983 and quickly became a lifeline for the Asian community working in the city’s rag trade. Known for its iconic ‘rice and three’ – where you choose three curries over a bed of rice – it’s no-frills, authentic and delicious. Kabana continues to serve hearty Pakistani and Indian dishes to locals and newcomers alike.

You can order from Kabana by clicking here

Don Giovanni (Giovanni’s) (est. 1984)

Might not be quite as old as some of the others, but Don Giovanni’s holds the title of Manchester’s oldest independent Italian restaurant. Opened in 1984 and still family-run, it’s all about fresh pasta, wood-fired pizzas and that stylish Italian charm. It’s the kind of place where the food speaks for itself – and keeps people coming back for more.

You can book a table here

This & That Café (est. 1984)

Tucked away on Soap Street in the Northern Quarter, This & That Café has been serving up its famous ‘rice and three’ since 1984. This family-run spot offers a selection of homemade curries, allowing diners to choose three to accompany their rice. It’s a no-frills, authentic experience that’s become a beloved institution in Manchester’s culinary scene.

You can check out their menu here

Mughli Charcoal Pit (est. 1991)

A Curry Mile institution since the early 90s, Mughli Charcoal Pit blends Indian and Pakistani street food with modern flair. Known for its open charcoal pit and bold flavours, this second-generation restaurant has been a firm favourite for over 30 years, offering dishes like tandoori chicken and fiery curries in a gorgeous setting. 

You can book a table here

El Rincón de Rafa (est. circa 1992)

Tucked away down a quiet side street just off Deansgate, El Rincón de Rafa is Manchester’s longest-running independent Spanish restaurant and a proper hidden gem. Open since the early 90s, it’s run by the same Spanish family who brought the flavours of Málaga to the city, and it still feels more like a relaxed local in Spain than a city centre spot.

Inside, it’s all warm lighting, family photos and the comforting hum of conversation. The menu is packed with authentic tapas, hearty paellas and all the Spanish classics, and portions are generous. With sangria and Spanish wines flowing, it’s no wonder regulars say it feels like you’re on holiday for the night.

El Rincón fills up fast – sometimes it’s already full by 5:30pm on a weekday – so booking ahead is a must. It’s one of the few places in Manchester where locals, opera-goers and even celebrities happily queue just to grab a table. A rare find that delivers on food, price and charm every single time.

You can book a table here

San Carlo Manchester (est. 2004)

Since opening in 2004, San Carlo has become one of Manchester’s top spots for premium Italian dining. Known for its authentic cuisine, fresh ingredients and lively atmosphere, the restaurant has built a reputation as a go-to destination for locals and visitors alike. Over the years, it’s hosted countless celebrities and has become a true city institution. Celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025, San Carlo continues to win over diners with high quality Italian dishes, exceptional service and a vibrant setting that captures the spirit of Italy right in the heart of Manchester.

You can book a table here

Have we missed any? Let us know at [email protected]