Say sayonara to small plates being exclusively for tapas, and welcome in a whole new world of cicchetti, mamezara and more on your next dining adventure. Whether you're on a date night, group dinner or you just fancy trying a little bit of everything, these restaurants across the city have got you covered. Explore the wonderful array of small plate restaurants in Manchester and let the feasting begin.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 19th June 2025
Peter Street Kitchen have built up a reputation for exceptional Japanese and Mexican-inspired small plates. Dinner here consists of tempura and smaller dishes such as seared beef tataki and truffle ponzu, snow crab from the robata and wagyu beef flat tacos in serene surroundings.
For lovers of shared dining, Canto in Ancoats offers a tempting selection of small plates inspired by Portugal and the Mediterranean. Designed for tasting and sharing, the menu encourages trying a bit of everything - perfect for those who like variety and flavour-packed bites.
With an open kitchen adding a sense of theatre, and a drinks list showcasing Portuguese wines and classic cocktails, Canto is a go-to destination for casual, flavour-driven dining.
Right in the heart of Manchester's historic King Street, El Gato Negro offers a sophisticated yet lively dining experience inspired by bold Spanish flavours.
Housed in a beautifully restored townhouse across three floors, the restaurant features an open kitchen, vibrant bar, and a rooftop terrace with all-season charm. Whether you're stopping by for a midweek lunch or weekend celebration, it's a go-to destination for exceptional tapas and drinks in the city centre.
Occupying the cosy nooks underneath the arches of Watson Street, Three Little Words is the restaurant that neighbours The Spirit of Manchester gin distillery. Head here to feast on the likes of scallop ceviche, lamb's fry and grilled halloumi served with peach and basil.
For small plates in Didsbury, look no further than favourite Volta. Known across the city for its food inspired by countries spanning from Ethiopia to Japan, alongside being the sister restaurant of city centre spot The Refuge, this restaurant is an absolute must-visit.
Fumo serves award-winning cicchetti in St Peters Square. For maximum impact, guests are encouraged to choose 5 - 6 dishes between two, and indulge in Sicilian arancini, truffle and pecorino ravioli and beef tagliata in the restaurant's luxurious setting.
Offering Chinese dishes to share, alongside main meals, signature cocktails and those iconic cherry blossom interiors, Tattu is a top choice of Manchester restaurants serving small plates. This swish destination is perfect for wooing come date night.
A guide to small dishes wouldn't be complete without tapas at Evuna Manchester - a stalwart of the Spanish dining scene on Deansgate and in the Northern Quarter. Wash your favourites down with plenty of vino, as this place doubles as a wine bar too.
Toting that quintessentially Manchester industrial chic aesthetic, Elnecot is whipping up some of the city's most inspiring small plates. The inventive and eclectic menu ranges from pig head croquettes to the very funky disco cabbage, with a cracking happy hour and lunchtime deals.
For lovers of small plates and shareable dishes, Higher Ground is a gem in Manchester's dining scene. The restaurant focuses on produce-driven, thoughtfully crafted British dishes served in an inviting space centred around an open kitchen island.
Ideal for sharing and tasting a variety of flavours, Higher Ground's menu highlights seasonal, locally sourced ingredients that celebrate British farming and sustainability.
