Pantasia

There is a certain type of dining that Monton does very well: the kind that feels equally appropriate for a quick Tuesday night takeaway or a long, wine-heavy Saturday afternoon. Pantasia fits comfortably into this middle ground, offering a Pan-Asian menu that skips the formalities of traditional fine dining in favour of what they call “the art of casual.”

Located on the main Monton Road stretch, the space balances a sleek, modern interior with the energy of an Asian street food kitchen. It isn’t trying to be one specific thing; instead, it’s a curated greatest-hits collection of East and Southeast Asian flavours. You’ll find Japanese-inspired Charsiu Curry Ramen sitting alongside Thai influences and fluffy bao buns, all anchored by a commitment to bold, fresh spices.

What sets Pantasia apart from your average neighbourhood spot is the attention to detail for those usually left scanning a menu for “may contain” warnings. They offer a dedicated gluten-free menu that isn’t just an afterthought, making it one of the more inclusive spots in Eccles for a group dinner. For those who prefer their dining with a side of fresh air (and their pets), small-breed dogs are welcome inside, while the outdoor seating accommodates the larger four-legged companions after a walk through the nearby loop line.

The “Street Box” menu is the go-to for a quicker, more focused meal, but the main menu encourages the kind of sharing that Pan-Asian food was built for. If you’re planning a larger get-together, they are remarkably accommodating for the suburbs, with a private function space and the ability to seat up to 25 people on a single table—a rarity for the अक्सर-cramped independent spots in the area.

Whether you’re in for a specific craving or just want a drink at the small bar, it’s a reliable, unpretentious addition to the local circuit. Also, a pro tip for the locals: they offer a 10% discount on collections if you’d rather eat your katsu in your pyjamas.