Manchester

☕

Cafes and Coffee Shops

Places offering coffee, tea, light snacks, and baked goods, perfect for a casual meet-up or work-from-cafe setting.

Sections

Popular Cafes and Coffee Shops in Manchester

1. Takk

  • Location: Northern Quarter (6 Tariff Street, M1 2FF)
  • Ambiance: Scandinavian-inspired, minimalist, and cozy with a focus on quality coffee.
  • Menu Highlights: Specialty coffee (single-origin beans), pastries, and light brunch options like avocado toast and granola bowls.
  • Price Range: £3–£10 per item.
  • Dietary Options: Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options available.
  • Unique Features: Known for its expertly brewed coffee and Nordic vibes, Takk is a favorite among freelancers and creatives.
  • Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station or accessible via the Metrolink (Piccadilly Gardens stop).
  • Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience; weekends can get busy.

2. Foundation Coffee House

  • Location: Northern Quarter (Sevendale House, Lever Street, M1 1JB)
  • Ambiance: Modern, industrial-chic with plenty of seating and natural light.
  • Menu Highlights: Flat whites, matcha lattes, smoothie bowls, and hearty sandwiches.
  • Price Range: £4–£12 per item.
  • Dietary Options: Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
  • Unique Features: A great spot for remote work with ample plug sockets and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Getting There: A short walk from Piccadilly Gardens or Market Street Metrolink stops.
  • Best Times to Visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon to avoid the lunch rush.

3. Ezra & Gil

  • Location: Northern Quarter (20 Hilton Street, M1 1FR)
  • Ambiance: Trendy and bustling with a neighborhood café vibe.
  • Menu Highlights: All-day brunch, artisan coffee, and dishes like shakshuka, sourdough toasties, and Buddha bowls.
  • Price Range: £5–£15 per item.
  • Dietary Options: Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
  • Unique Features: A local favorite for brunch and people-watching.
  • Getting There: A 10-minute walk from Manchester Piccadilly Station.
  • Best Times to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons; weekends are very busy.

4. Pot Kettle Black (PKB)

  • Location: Barton Arcade, Deansgate (M3 2BW)
  • Ambiance: Stylish and relaxed with a mix of modern and vintage décor.
  • Menu Highlights: Specialty coffee, banana bread, eggs benedict, and protein-packed smoothies.
  • Price Range: £5–£15 per item.
  • Dietary Options: Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
  • Unique Features: Located in the historic Barton Arcade, PKB offers a unique blend of history and modernity.
  • Getting There: A 5-minute walk from St Peter’s Square Metrolink stop.
  • Best Times to Visit: Mid-morning or early afternoon.

5. Federal Café & Bar

  • Location: Northern Quarter (9 Nicholas Croft, M4 1EY) and Deansgate (194 Deansgate, M3 3ND)
  • Ambiance: Australian/New Zealand-inspired café with a laid-back vibe.
  • Menu Highlights: Flat whites, smashed avocado, French toast, and halloumi dishes.
  • Price Range: £6–£15 per item.
  • Dietary Options: Vegan and vegetarian-friendly options.
  • Unique Features: Known for its Antipodean-style brunch and excellent coffee.
  • Getting There: Both locations are easily accessible via the Metrolink (Northern Quarter: Shudehill stop; Deansgate: Deansgate-Castlefield stop).
  • Best Times to Visit: Arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.

6. Chapter One Books

  • Location: Northern Quarter (19 Lever Street, M1 1BY)
  • Ambiance: Quirky and literary-themed with a relaxed, bookshop-café vibe.
  • Menu Highlights: Coffee, tea, cakes, and light snacks.
  • Price Range: £3–£8 per item.
  • Dietary Options: Vegan and vegetarian options.
  • Unique Features: A perfect spot for book lovers, with plenty of cozy corners to read or work.
  • Getting There: A short walk from Piccadilly Gardens Metrolink stop.
  • Best Times to Visit: Weekday afternoons for a quieter atmosphere.

Navigating Manchester to Find Cafes

  • Public Transport:

    • Manchester’s Metrolink tram system is the easiest way to get around. Key stops like Piccadilly Gardens, Market Street, and Deansgate-Castlefield are close to many popular cafes.
    • Buses are also frequent, with the free city center shuttle (Metroshuttle) connecting major areas.
    • Walking is a great option in the compact city center, especially in the Northern Quarter.

  • Peak Hours:

    • Cafes are busiest during weekend brunch hours (10:00 AM–1:00 PM). Arrive early to secure a table.
    • Weekday mornings (8:00 AM–10:00 AM) are popular with commuters, while afternoons (2:00 PM–4:00 PM) are quieter.

  • Payment:

    • Most cafes accept card payments, and contactless is widely used. Carrying some cash is still advisable for smaller establishments.

Local Customs and Etiquette

  1. Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated. Leaving 10% of the bill is a kind gesture if you’ve received good service.
  2. Table Service: Some cafes offer table service, while others require you to order at the counter. Look for signs or ask staff if unsure.
  3. Sharing Tables: In busy cafes, especially in the Northern Quarter, it’s common to share tables with strangers. Don’t hesitate to ask if a seat is free.
  4. Takeaway Culture: Many locals grab coffee to-go, especially during weekday mornings. If you’re in a rush, this is a convenient option.

Dietary Accommodations

Manchester’s café scene is highly inclusive, with most establishments offering:

  • Vegan Options: Plant-based milk (oat, almond, soy) is widely available for coffee, and many cafes have vegan-friendly dishes.
  • Gluten-Free Options: Look for gluten-free cakes, bread, and other items on menus.
  • Allergies: Always inform staff about allergies; they are generally accommodating and knowledgeable.

Additional Tips

  • Coffee Culture: Manchester has a strong independent coffee scene, so don’t hesitate to ask baristas about their beans or brewing methods. They’re often passionate and happy to share.
  • Wi-Fi: Most cafes offer free Wi-Fi, making them great spots for remote work or catching up on emails.
  • Events: Some cafes, like Chapter One Books, host events such as book readings or live music. Check their social media for updates.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to explore Manchester’s diverse and exciting café culture. Whether you’re looking for a quiet corner to read, a lively brunch spot, or the perfect flat white, Manchester has it all. Enjoy your visit!