A handful of Manchester restaurants have been named among the best in the UK, according to the Good Food Guide’s 2025 list of 100 Best Local Restaurants.
Leading the local names are modern Anglo-French bistro Stretford Canteen, praised for its accessible pricing and modern bistro cooking, and long-time favourite Bar San Juan in Chorlton, known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Spanish tapas. Both featured in the Guide’s North West category, which shines a spotlight on affordable and independent venues that have become cornerstones of their communities.
Now in its 15th year, the list draws from tens of thousands of public nominations, with the final selections made by anonymous Good Food Guide inspectors. The awards aim to highlight restaurants where “you can enjoy a great meal for under £20”, in response to a year when 61% of surveyed diners said eating out had become too expensive.
In addition to Stretford Canteen and Bar San Juan, other Manchester spots making the cut include The Spärrows, known for its Eastern and Central European dumplings and pasta dishes, and Cibus, the Levenshulme spot with a reputation for simple but impressive Italian cooking.
Further afield in Greater Manchester, Lupo in Prestwich was crowned the overall North West winner, recognised for its old-school Italian approach and no-nonsense hospitality.
Stockport’s Cantaloupe and  Sé Anār in Blackpool also featured in the region’s top picks, alongside Liverpool’s Belzan and The Yan in Grasmere.
“These restaurants exemplify the kind of value and vibrancy we’re seeing from the UK’s local food scenes,” said editor-at-large Elizabeth Carter. “They’re proof that eating well doesn’t have to come with a high price tag.”
The overall UK winner this year is Lucky Lychee, a Malaysian restaurant in Winchester, applauded for its Nyonya-influenced cooking and warm, neighbourhood feel.
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