Manchester
Takeaways
Quick and convenient meal options available for pick-up or delivery, ideal for casual or budget-friendly dining.
Sections
1. Popular Takeaway Categories in Manchester
Manchesterโs diverse population has influenced its food culture, offering a wide range of takeaway options to suit all tastes. Here are some of the most popular categories:
a. Indian and South Asian Cuisine
- Manchester is famous for its "Curry Mile" in Rusholme, where youโll find countless Indian, Pakistani, and Bangladeshi restaurants offering takeaway options.
- Popular dishes: Chicken Tikka Masala, Lamb Rogan Josh, Biryani, and vegetarian curries like Paneer Butter Masala.
- Many places also offer naan wraps and kebabs for a quick bite.
b. Chinese and East Asian Cuisine
- Chinese takeaways are a staple in Manchester, with Chinatown being a hub for authentic options.
- Popular dishes: Sweet and Sour Chicken, Chow Mein, Dim Sum, and Duck Pancakes.
- Korean, Japanese, and Thai takeaways are also widely available, offering sushi, ramen, pad Thai, and bibimbap.
c. Pizza and Italian
- Pizza is a go-to takeaway option, with both independent pizzerias and chains like Dominoโs and Pizza Hut.
- Many places offer wood-fired pizzas for a more authentic Italian experience.
d. Fish and Chips
- A quintessential British takeaway, fish and chips are widely available across Manchester. Look for local chippies (fish and chip shops) for the best experience.
- Popular sides: Mushy peas, curry sauce, or gravy.
e. Burgers and Fried Chicken
- American-style fast food is very popular, with gourmet burger joints and fried chicken shops like KFC, Dixy Chicken, and local independents.
f. Middle Eastern and Mediterranean
- Shawarma, falafel, and kebabs are widely available, especially in areas like Rusholme and the Northern Quarter.
- Many places also offer mezze platters and wraps.
g. Vegan and Vegetarian
- Manchester has a growing vegan and vegetarian scene, with dedicated takeaways offering plant-based burgers, curries, pizzas, and more.
h. Desserts
- Dessert takeaways are increasingly popular, offering waffles, crepes, milkshakes, and cakes. Chains like Creams and local spots like Black Milk are worth trying.
2. Average Costs
The cost of takeaway food in Manchester varies depending on the type of cuisine and portion size. Hereโs a general breakdown:
- Indian/Chinese meals: ยฃ8โยฃ15 per person.
- Pizza: ยฃ7โยฃ12 for a medium pizza; gourmet options may cost more.
- Fish and Chips: ยฃ6โยฃ10 for a portion.
- Burgers and Fried Chicken: ยฃ5โยฃ10 for a meal deal.
- Middle Eastern wraps: ยฃ4โยฃ8.
- Vegan/Vegetarian meals: ยฃ7โยฃ12.
- Desserts: ยฃ4โยฃ8 per item.
Delivery fees typically range from ยฃ1.50 to ยฃ4, depending on the platform and distance.
3. How to Order Takeaway
There are several ways to order takeaway in Manchester:
a. Online Platforms
- Just Eat: One of the most popular platforms in the UK, offering a wide range of cuisines.
- Deliveroo: Known for delivering from higher-end restaurants and independent eateries.
- Uber Eats: Offers a mix of fast food and local options.
- Foodhub: Similar to Just Eat but often with lower service fees.
b. Direct from Restaurants
- Many restaurants and takeaways have their own websites or apps for ordering directly, which may save you money on service fees.
c. Phone Orders
- Traditional phone orders are still common, especially for local takeaways. Check the restaurantโs website or menu for their phone number.
d. Walk-In and Collect
- Many takeaways offer discounts for collection orders. You can place your order in person or call ahead.
4. Delivery Options
- Home Delivery: Most takeaways offer delivery services, either directly or through platforms like Just Eat, Deliveroo, or Uber Eats.
- Click and Collect: Order online or by phone and pick up your food at the restaurant.
- Delivery Times: Most takeaways operate from late morning until late at night (11 PM or later). Some, especially in student areas, stay open until the early hours of the morning.
5. Dietary Preferences and Considerations
Manchesterโs takeaway scene caters to a wide range of dietary needs:
a. Vegetarian and Vegan
- Many takeaways offer vegetarian and vegan options, clearly marked on menus.
- Dedicated vegan takeaways like V-Rev Vegan Diner and Wholesome Junkies are popular.
b. Halal
- A significant number of takeaways in Manchester are halal-certified, especially in areas like Rusholme, Cheetham Hill, and Longsight. Look for halal signs or ask the restaurant directly.
c. Gluten-Free
- Some takeaways offer gluten-free options, particularly pizza places and health-focused eateries. Always check with the restaurant to confirm.
d. Allergies
- UK law requires restaurants to provide allergen information. If you have specific allergies, inform the restaurant when ordering.
6. Local Considerations and Tips
- Tipping: Tipping delivery drivers is not mandatory but appreciated. A tip of ยฃ1โยฃ3 is common.
- Peak Times: Delivery times can be longer on Friday and Saturday evenings, so order early if possible.
- Portion Sizes: Portions in the UK are generally generous, so consider sharing or saving leftovers.
- Sustainability: Many takeaways are moving towards eco-friendly packaging. If this is important to you, check with the restaurant.
- Student Discounts: Some takeaways offer discounts for students, especially near university areas like Fallowfield and Oxford Road.
- Cultural Sensitivity: If youโre ordering from a culturally specific takeaway, itโs worth exploring their traditional dishes for an authentic experience.
7. Recommendations for Popular Takeaways in Manchester
Here are some highly rated takeaways to try:
- Indian: Mughli Charcoal Pit (Rusholme), Akbarโs (Deansgate).
- Chinese: Happy Seasons (Chinatown), Wings (Chinatown).
- Pizza: Rudyโs Neapolitan Pizza (Ancoats), Crazy Pedroโs (Northern Quarter).
- Fish and Chips: The Hip Hop Chip Shop (Ancoats), Armstrongโs Fish and Chips (Middleton).
- Middle Eastern: Jasmine Restaurant (Rusholme), Go Falafel (multiple locations).
- Vegan: V-Rev Vegan Diner (Northern Quarter), Four Side Vegan Pizza (Ancoats).
- Desserts: Black Milk (Northern Quarter), Creams Cafรฉ (multiple locations).
By following this guide, youโll be well-equipped to enjoy Manchesterโs diverse and delicious takeaway offerings. Bon appรฉtit!