Manchester is renowned for its bustling Chinatown, which boasts the second largest population of Chinese communities in the UK after London, and the third largest in Europe. With a rich history dating back to the 1950s, when the city welcomed its first Chinese restaurants, Manchester’s Chinese food scene has grown steadily over the years, offering an array of culinary delights from Cantonese, Szechuan, Hong Kong, and Hunanese cuisines.
While Chinatown remains a vibrant hub with its numerous supermarkets, restaurants, and karaoke spots, the best Chinese cuisine in Manchester can be found beyond its confines. Let’s take a journey through some of the city’s standout Chinese dining establishments.
Happy Seasons, Chinatown
Indulge in the irresistible allure of Happy Seasons, where each visit leaves you craving more. Their roast meats, from perfectly crispy pork belly to succulent duck, will spoil your taste buds forever. Served with simplicity on a bed of boiled rice and a handful of Chinese cabbage, these dishes achieve perfection. Don’t miss out on their mouthwatering beef brisket soup either.
Blue Eyed Panda, Ancoats
Originally a take-away joint, Blue Eyed Panda has now expanded into its own restaurant in Ancoats. With a menu focused on classic Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, such as honey-glazed pork belly, spare ribs, and hot poached beef in chili oil, this establishment aims to please. You’ll find a range of familiar favorites, including salt and pepper chicken and crispy chili beef, alongside delightful dim sum offerings and daily-changing specials.
Live Seafood, Beswick
Quirky and exciting, Live Seafood in Beswick offers an experience like no other. You can personally select your seafood from a tank, choosing from a variety of live options, including king crab and farm eels. Once you’ve made your selection, the skilled chefs will prepare your meal to perfection. Be prepared for a unique dining atmosphere, complete with Finding Nemo pictures and the occasional fairy light on your plate.
Tattu, Spinningfields
Tattu in Spinningfields is not only known for its delectable Chinese cuisine but also for its stunning and Instagram-worthy surroundings. From walls adorned with roses and hanging anchors to a majestic cherry blossom tree, Tattu offers a luxurious dining experience. The menu puts a modern twist on Chinese classics, while the drink selection includes creative cocktails, sake, wine, and beers. During Chinese New Year, Tattu transforms into a festive haven, offering traditional dishes alongside contemporary interpretations.
The Rice Bowl, City Centre
As one of the oldest family-run Chinese restaurants in Manchester, The Rice Bowl holds a special place in the city’s culinary landscape. Established in 1960, this Cross Street institution continues to serve a wide array of dishes, including an extensive dim sum selection that is sure to impress. Their set menus provide excellent value for money, and don’t forget to try their baked dim sum pastries.
Red Chilli, Chinatown
With its two locations, including one on Oxford Road, Red Chilli is a popular choice for those seeking fiery Szechuan and Beijing specialties. While their pork belly and preserved cabbage dishes are heavenly, the restaurant’s menu offers lesser-known options for the adventurous palate. From ox heart, tongue, and tripe in a spicy beansprout stew to sautéed pig’s intestine rings with chili, Red Chilli offers an authentic nose-to-tail experience.
Wing’s, Lincoln Square
Favored by footballers from Manchester United and Manchester City alike, Wing’s in Lincoln Square has earned a reputation as a go-to Chinese restaurant in the city. While it may have a celebrity following, the food remains the star of the show. With an extensive menu showcasing a range of Cantonese and Szechuan dishes, Wing’s promises a memorable dining experience.
Manchester’s Chinese culinary scene is a treasure trove of flavors. Whether you choose to explore Chinatown or venture further afield, these outstanding restaurants offer an array of dishes that showcase the diversity and richness of Chinese cuisine in the city.
FAQ:
1. What is the significance of Chinatown in Manchester?
– Chinatown in Manchester is renowned for being the second largest Chinese community in the UK and the third largest in Europe, after London. It has a rich history dating back to the 1950s and offers a wide range of Chinese cuisines.
2. What are some standout Chinese dining establishments in Manchester?
– Some standout Chinese dining establishments in Manchester include Happy Seasons in Chinatown, Blue Eyed Panda in Ancoats, Live Seafood in Beswick, Tattu in Spinningfields, The Rice Bowl in the City Centre, Red Chilli in Chinatown, and Wing’s in Lincoln Square.
3. What are some recommended dishes in the mentioned restaurants?
– Recommended dishes include roast meats and beef brisket soup at Happy Seasons, classic Cantonese and Szechuan dishes at Blue Eyed Panda, live seafood options at Live Seafood, modern Chinese classics and creative cocktails at Tattu, extensive dim sum selection at The Rice Bowl, authentic Szechuan and Beijing specialties at Red Chilli, and a range of Cantonese and Szechuan dishes at Wing’s.
Definitions:
– Cantonese cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine that originated from Guangdong province in southern China.
– Szechuan cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine that originated from Sichuan province in southwestern China.
– Hong Kong cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine influenced by Cantonese, British, and other international cuisines.
– Hunanese cuisine: A style of Chinese cuisine that originated from Hunan province in central China.
– Dim sum: Bite-sized portions of food, typically served in steamer baskets or small plates, often associated with Cantonese cuisine.
Related Links:
Manchester Chinatown Official Website
Happy Seasons
Blue Eyed Panda
Live Seafood
Tattu
The Rice Bowl
Red Chilli
Wing’s