Wong Wong Bakery

Chinatown is easily one of our favourite city centre neighbourhoods. From the imposing arch and central square — a fantastic spot for people watching during warm summer months — through to the backstreet and basement eateries you need someone in the know to find, it’s one of the most colourful and vivid districts in Greater Manchester, and everyone should spend at least a little time freely wandering the handful of blocks that make up this densely built-up area. And if you’re hitting the streets around here, Wong Wong Bakery is an absolute must, situated on the very edge of the action close to the landmark Manchester Art Gallery. 

Recognisable by its neon sign — almost a pre-requisite in Chinatown — this is one of those places many people walk by time and again, but for anyone who has actually been inside, the idea of not stopping off for a snack or treat is sacrilege. Wong Wong is a cake emporium of the most exotic kind and highest order. Specialising in Far Eastern fare, it doesn’t neglect the rest of the world, either. 

Items are displayed temptingly in their cabinets, making every visitor feel like a kid in a candy store. Only in this instance, it’s an adult in a Chinese bakery in central Manchester. Turtle Buns, peanut butter pancakes, red bean banana cake and rich custard buns give an idea as to what you’re likely to find here on any given day. As does the Portuguese icon, Pastel de Nata. In addition to over the counter sales, Wong Wong can also make a variety of bespoke cakes for any occasion you might think worthy of buying a cake. Wedding cakes, ‘standard’ cakes (which look anything but standard), special cakes (no kidding) and printed cakes are all available here. And that’s really just scratching the surface.