GRUB set to take on Stretford multi-storey car park with new street food market

The Manchester street food specialists are lining up an 18-month residency...

By Manchester's Finest | 21 May 2026

Stretford Mall

GRUB is set to open a brand new street food hall, events space and community hub in the heart of Stretford this June, bringing its trademark mix of independent food traders, live events and neighbourhood gatherings to Trafford for the first time.

Subject to planning approval, GRUB Stretford will take over a 6,000 sq ft space on the ground floor of the town centre’s multi-storey car park, spilling out onto Sir Tony Lloyd Square as part of an 18-month residency.

The new venue will operate Tuesday to Sunday, with daytime plans including a bakery, coffee shop and pop-up bottle store before transforming into a larger evening destination later in the week with independent street food traders, live entertainment and events running from Thursday to Sunday.

GRUB says the ambition is to create a true community space for Stretford, with family-friendly programming running throughout the year alongside food festivals, neighbourhood socials, town fairs and match day events. This summer’s World Cup is expected to be a major focus, with screenings alongside food and drink offerings.

Stretford Mall
(Credit: Jon Parker Lee)

The brand has become one of Manchester’s best-known independent hospitality operators over the last decade, building a loyal following through its street food markets, film nights, beer festivals and grassroots events.

Known for championing emerging chefs and independent traders, GRUB says the Stretford opening marks a significant step outside the city centre while staying true to its community-led roots.

Chris Houghton, Head of Commercial at Bruntwood, said: “We are excited to be bringing a new community space by GRUB to Stretford town centre. Our joint ambition is to create a brilliant new hub of independent street food, activity and culture in the heart of the town centre.

“It will mark a significant moment in the evolution of Stretford as we continue creating a vibrant destination for the whole community to enjoy.”

Jason Bailey, Director of GRUB, added: “We’re really excited to step outside of the city centre and into Stretford. It’s somewhere we’ve had our eye on for a while, so this feels like a brilliant opportunity to bring what GRUB does best into a new neighbourhood.

“The ambition is to create a true community hub and a real destination for local people, somewhere that champions independents, supports grassroots culture and adds long term energy to the town centre.”

Cllr Liz Patel, Trafford Council’s Executive Member for Economy and Regeneration, said: “Subject to planning permission, we will be delighted to welcome Grub to Stretford as another jewel in the crown of the town’s revamped shopping and leisure offer.

“This venture is set to really compliment the growing eating, drinking and social scene in the area, and give people an extra reason to come and spend time here.”

GRUB’s arrival comes as Stretford town centre continues its wider regeneration, with the newly opened King Street, Pinnington Lane and Sir Tony Lloyd Square helping attract a growing mix of independent hospitality, leisure and retail operators to the area.

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