Date spot in Manchester
Erst
Share seasonal small plates from the open kitchen with a bottle from the natural wine list, in a relaxed, stripped-back room in Ancoats.
Murray Street, Ancoats
Address: 9 Murray Street, Manchester M4 6HS- Restaurant
- Rain-proof ☔
- Mid-price
- Foodie
- Cosy
Why it's a good date: Laid-back but properly good: you'll order a few things, then a few more. Ask the staff to pick a wine if you're not sure where to start.
More from our Manchester guide
Schofield's Bar
Sunlight House, Quay Street, off Deansgate
Address: Sunlight House, 3 Little Quay Street, Manchester M3 3JZ- Bar
- Rain-proof ☔
- Mid-price
- Romantic
- Big night
Order a Martini or a Manhattan at the cocktail bar run by brothers Joe and Daniel Schofield, on the corner of Sunlight House, a 1930s art deco landmark.
Why it's a good date: Carefully made classic cocktails, in a room that suits dressing up a bit. Start your evening here, or come back for a nightcap.
The Washhouse
Shudehill, Northern Quarter
Address: 19 Shudehill, Manchester M4 2AF- Bar
- Rain-proof ☔
- Mid-price
- Big night
Walk into what looks like an ordinary launderette, pick up the phone on the wall, and get let through into a small hidden cocktail bar.
Why it's a good date: The way in is a great icebreaker, and there are more surprises once you're inside. It's tiny, so book ahead: you won't get in without a booking.
Speak in Code
Jackson's Row, off Deansgate
Address: 7 Jackson's Row, Manchester M2 5ND- Bar
- Rain-proof ☔
- Mid-price
- Cosy
- Big night
Settle into a low-lit cocktail bar tucked away on a side street, with inventive drinks made from house-made ingredients.
Why it's a good date: Intimate and unhurried, with friendly bartenders who'll steer you to something new. Good for a quiet second drink after dinner.