Northern Quarter Bars

This eclectic district is cool, kooky and home to some of the hottest drinking holes around. Whether you're after an award-winning spot that serves killer recipes, a cosy basement space or a great DJ hangout with all the best music, the NQ can provide. Spoilt for choice? Check out our recommended list of the best Northern Quarter bars when you fancy your next tipple.

Last edited by Marcus Sanigar

Last updated on 14th January 2026




Wilson's Social

Bottomless Brunch

Nestled in the heart of Manchester's vibrant Northern Quarter, Wilson's Social is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy great drinks. Open daily from early until late, this all-day bar and restaurant boasts a fantastic courtyard, a pool table, and a buzzing atmosphere.

Whether you're in the mood for a cold craft beer from one of their 18 taps or a handcrafted cocktail from their extensive list, Wilson's offers something for everyone. With regular happy hours, live DJs, and weekly quiz nights, it's the ultimate spot to enjoy the best of Manchester's bar scene.

NQ64 Manchester Northern Quarter

You can find the super cool retro arcade bar NQ64 in the heart of Manchester's Northern Quarter or over on Peter Street in Deansgate. It's famed for its incredible range of arcade delights such as Time Crisis, Pac-Man and Guitar Hero. Adorned with neon graffiti, it's a super quirky watering hole to grab a bite to eat thanks to Crazy Pedro's supplying the pizza. Plus, there are also themed tipples like a Kong Island Iced Tea.

Head of Steam, Manchester

A cool craft beer bar in a beautifully restored Grade II-listed building, Head of Steam is a spacious venue for all occasions. Inside, you'll find exposed brickwork and a circular bar in the centre, as well as a regular lineup of live entertainment - think darts, sports screenings, live music and DJ sets.

There are 30 lines of beer - 24 keg and six cask - focusing on UK and Belgian brews. You can enjoy cocktails and premium spirits too, alongside award-winning smash burgers from local legends That Burger Place.

Ad Hoc Wine Shop

Opened in 2020, the Ad Hoc Wine Shop has fast become one of the Northern Quarter's sparkliest gems. Part shop, part bar, its shelves are piled high with some of the world's best vinos, from certified classics to modern creations and low intervention bottles. 

With a window seat, you can watch the world go by as you sip your way through reds, whites, bubbles and rosés. When it's time to head home, be sure to grab a bottle or two for your travels.

Stray

It may have only opened its doors in 2023, but Stray has already taken its place on the official list of the UK's Top 50 Cocktail Bars. One look at the place and it's easy to see why. 

All marble finishes, exposed brick, velvet seating and big windows, it's cool and cosy all at the same time. The menu demands just as much attention, packing in refined classics alongside a changing choice of signature serves like the Vino Colada or Tomato Vine Margarita.