With the food scene in Manchester going from strength to strength and new restaurants appearing all the time, there’s never been a better time to try out the wide range of Chinese restaurants that the city has to offer. With dining destinations drawing inspiration from all across China, there’s a traditional restaurant in Chinatown serving up countless classics and an award-winning five-star Cantonese restaurant in Salford. Add to that an array of vegetarian and vegan dishes on offer at a restaurant in Astley and a Pan-Asian street food set-up in the heart of the city, and Manchester’s Chinese food scene has got you covered.
Whether you want to enjoy a classic Chinese noodle dish, fluffy dim sum, or fusion cuisine, the best Chinese restaurants in Manchester have a table for you. Enjoy some of the finest Chinese food outside of China and book your table on OpenTable now.
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For traditional Chinese street food – visit Suki Suki Street Food & Bar in Deansgate
Suki Suki Street Food & Bar is a Pan-Asian gem that is the talk of the town. Located in the central location of Deansgate, this restaurant is only a short walk from the famous Chinatown area in Manchester. The perfect destination for a quick lunchtime fix, a late-night munch or a relaxing sit-down meal, Suki Suki draws inspiration from the bustling streets of Eastern Asia, with market-style street food inspired dishes. From soft fluffy buns to warming ramen noodles, some of the all-time favourites on the menu include honey and chilli glazed crispy pork belly, soft shell crab tempura and Korean spicy chicken wings. For smaller on-the-go street bites, or for those that want to grab a few sharing plates, try out the salt and pepper ribs or wings, kimchi chicken or vegetable spring rolls. Once you’ve finished your meal, head over to their independent bar to enjoy a refreshing drink, whether you’re in the mood for a beautifully presented crafted cocktail, a cold craft beer or a glass of their finest house wine.
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For Chinese fare with a modern twist at one of the best restaurants near Chinatown Manchester – Blue Eyed Panda in Manchester
Located in the Northern Quarter of Manchester, Blue Eyed Panda is modern restaurant with a lively atmosphere, ideal for a relaxed meal with friends or a romantic evening out. Not only does this restaurant offer classic Chinese dishes, such as dim sum, salt and pepper chicken and pan-fried noodles, but there is also an extensive vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free menu, making it ideal for those looking for an alternative option. Some of the most popular meals at Blue Eyed Panda are in the range of Szechuan dishes, renowned for their bold and spicy flavours. From lobster tails and monkfish to tofu and green beans, you can forgive yourself for thinking you’re on another continent. Add to that a wide selection of starters, such as crispy vegetarian spring rolls or skewered chicken in satay peanut sauce, and you’ve got a meal to remember. Don’t skip dessert, the fried nai wong bao custard buns served with condensed milk and desiccated coconut sprinkles is a must.
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For an elegant Cantonese experience – head to Pacifica Cantonese in Salford
When luxury and Chinese food combine, you get Pacifica Cantonese, Manchester’s first five-star Cantonese restaurant. With a sophisticated and cosy vibe, outstanding facilities and impeccable service, this Chinese gem t is perfect for a business lunch, a group feast, or a romantic date night.
The restaurant’s concept features an innovative two-step process to ensure you get a meal to remember. Start by choosing your main (from chicken, roast bbq char siu pork, prawns, cod fillet or tofu) and pair it with the sauce of your liking, like ginger and spring onions, pepper, Sichuan sauce, satay and curry. Shredded, sizzling or deep fried, the cooking style is yours to choose too. The chef’s recommendation is a no-brainer and includes honey wings, teriyaki fillets and udons. Don’t miss the special Pacifica cocktail with vodka, and fresh apple, kiwi and lime juice, topped with champagne.
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For one of the best Asian restaurants in Manchester with sleek modern vibes – check out Pinwei Chinese Restaurant in Manchester
If you’re looking for one of the best restaurants in Chinatown Manchester then look no further than Pinwei Chinese Restaurant. Located just a stone’s throw from Manchester Town Hall, this restaurant serves shoppers and families alike and has received OpenTable Diners’ Choice award for 2022. Enjoy the contemporary menu whilst you bask in the spacious and relaxing atmosphere, boasting modern interiors. From Sichuan spicy soups to Cantonese ribs, veggie skewers in satay sauce, salt and pepper lobster, stir fried duck with pineapple and Singapore noodles with shrimps, the compelling menu is best enjoyed with a group to share. The Beijing-style roast duck is a must-try signature dish, served with cucumber, duck sauce and handmade pancake wraps. Wash it all down with a selection of Chinese teas or a gin-based elderflower cocktail and finish off with a slice of the housemade mango cheesecake.
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For a family-friendly Chinese feast – try Blue Diamond Chinese Restaurant in Oldham
For one of the best Chinese restaurants outside of Manchester, check out Blue Diamond Chinese Restaurant near the Rochdale train station. Boasting a casual atmosphere, friendly staff and superb service, the restaurant has earned its place in this selection for its consistency and community feel. This family-run restaurant has been welcoming back regulars for over 20 years, making it a must-try Chinese gem in Manchester. Don’t miss the standout duck pancakes and sizzling Mongolian lamb dishes loved by regular diners. Add to that a superb vegetarian offering, with everything from vegetarian spring rolls to tofu stir fry, and there’s something for all. Known to put a smile or two on customers’ faces, top off your meal with the house wine.
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For Chinese and Thai fusion cuisine at one of the best Chinese restaurants in Manchester – visit Lizhi in Manchester
Lizhi brings Chinese and Thai fusion cuisine to the outskirts of Manshester, in Astley. With options for vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free diets, Lizhi uses various fresh ingredients sourced from local suppliers to serve up a surprising menu. If you like it hot, go for the chicken tom yam soup, a favourite amongst diners, followed by spicy chicken wings. Don’t skip the restaurant’s special fluffy dim sum filled with king prawns, barbecued pork or scallops, and move on to crispy duck served with pancakes and trimmings in hoi sin sauce, a must-try sizzling Cantonese fillet steak, honey sticky ribs and sweet and sour tofu and aubergine dish. For a memorable group meal, Lizhi’s signature sharing platter offers a spread of spring rolls, gyozas, skewers and samosas for the table. Pair your feast with a passion fruit cocktail, an Aperol spritz or a glass of Merlot whilst enjoying the relaxing restaurant vibe.
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Chinese and Asian food has always been one of the go-to meals in the UK, with it being a classic takeaway option for family and friends alike. Whether you’re a lover of Asian food or a curious foodie, you’ll find that Chinese has something to satisfy your cravings. From sweet and sour dishes to sizzling spice, the best Chinese restaurants in Manchester won’t let you down. Find your ideal restaurant today and enjoy a meal to remember.
