Rainy weather, live music, and pub lunches; if there's three things Manchester is famous for, it's the latter that we're most interested in right now. From fish and chips to steak and ale pies, these traditional boozers serve up gourmet British grub in comforting surroundings. Whether it's a sneaky lunch break pint or a Saturday afternoon meet-up, check out our recommendations for the best pub lunches in Manchester.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 18th March 2025
A favourite with Manchester locals, The Old Wellington stands tall with its classic black and white Tudor stripes. Serving up an incredible menu with classic pub grub such as sausage and mash, the pub is one of the most recognisable in Manchester city centre.
Looking for a street food-inspired pub lunch? Then head to The Gasworks Brew Bar, found on the site of the old Gaythorn Gas Works. This industrial-looking spot features rustic interiors and shuffleboard tables, as well as a cracking menu from Street Thief.
They specialise in Asian fried chicken, from burgers to katsu curries, with plenty of vegan options available too. You can wash this all down with fresh craft beer, brewed on-site and served tank to tap.
A classic pub that serves classic grub, Briton's Protection is an award-winning option, that serves real ale and a matching British menu. On sunny days, nab a spot in their beer garden and get some rays before you head back to the office.
From the massive beer garden through to the book shelves in cosy corners, The Wharf is one of Castlefield's most popular pubs. And it extends this homely feel to its food too, with a long list of classics, as well as a roster of daily specials.
It's not all fish and chips and pork pies when it comes to pub food in Manchester; The Beagle in Chorlton fronts a Mexican-inspired menu. Tuck into burritos, nachos and spicy burgers, and if you're vegan - there's a long list of meat-free choices.
The Angel is a dining pub in the heart of the ever-growing Northern Quarter. The downstairs bar is especially great for a drink at lunchtime with on real ale and craft beers, and there's a hearty menu to mop it all up.
A warm welcome always awaits at the award winning Lass O'Gowrie. Renowned for their pies, ale and eclectic entertainment, it's a perfect stop-off for some well deserved lunch. The pub prides itself on serving good old fashioned honest pub grub. With a 100% homemade ethic you know that there is nothing less than impeccable homemade food, just what's needed for an afternoon snack.
Fresh from a swanky refit, The Bay Horse Tavern may be looking a little bit different but the menu is still full of the classic pub dishes that make this Northern Quarter boozer such a favourite. Stop for lunch, when they serve a range of pie and sarnies.
A renowned live music pub in Manchester, The Thirsty Scholar also brings something slightly different to Manchester's pub lunch scene, with an entirely vegan menu, from the burgers to the hot dogs.
Around since 1872, Sam's Chop House is synonymous with gastro dining in Manchester. The pub and restaurant is the perfect place for a hearty British dish in cosy surroundings, with the likes of beef shin, mushroom and Guinness pie, and aged steaks to munch on.
