Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy free, or you’re navigating a combination of dietary needs, Manchester is an incredible city to explore!
As a gluten-free vegetarian myself, I get it. I know how frustrating it can be to eat out – triple-checking menus, having to explain your requirements in detail to the server and sometimes still feeling like you’re settling for something that you don’t really want.
Here’s a round-up of some of my favourite places in Manchester that, not only understand and cater to dietary requirements, but actually make eating out feel fun, normal and delicious.
For brunch and chill mid-morning vibes:
Ezra and Gil
My absolute staple for brunch, and a Manchester classic for a reason.
They offer a great variety of veggie and vegan dishes, and the staff are always super understanding. Their gluten-free bread hits the spot, and their smashed pumpkin on toast is honestly to die for.
Bill’s
Bill’s actually offer their own gluten-free menus, both for breakfast and all-day dining. From gluten-free hash browns and vegan bacon to scrambled tofu and gluten-free/vegan pancakes, they have options that you rarely see.
Plus, it’s a great spot to visit with friends, as they have a great menu for those without dietary requirements to enjoy too.
The Green Lab
Set up with health and fresh produce in mind, The Green Lab is all about fuelling your body with good food. They clearly label their menu with the gluten-free, veggie and vegan meals (plus other allergens too).
Their option to build-your-own nutrition bowl also means that you can fully design your meal with all of your allergens in mind!
A mix between brunch-and-dinner
The Allotment Vegan Eatery
This fully plant-based spot is stylish and cosy, serving up hearty portions and rich flavours.
They have an amazing range of dishes from tapas to large plates, with most of their menu also being gluten-free.
Standouts include a vegan and gluten-free Sunday roast, a vegan afternoon tea and a bottomless brunch! It’s these sorts of things that you don’t see every day.
Dinner spots you’ll love!
Dishoom
A must for some amazing Indian food, Dishoom can be enjoyed by everyone, offering plenty of gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free options.
It’s a real standout for the veggies, while still offering some delicious meat options. I recently tried their Mattar Paneer and I can confidently say it was the best curry I’ve ever had!
Dishoom is also a great business to support. They run some truly impactful schemes, such as their meal-for-a-meal initiative. With every meal served at any of their restaurants, they donate one to a child who would otherwise go hungry.
Bundobust
For a similar vibe to Dishoom but on slightly more of a budget, Bundobust is a Indian street food and craft beer bar. Their menu is fully vegetarian (and mostly vegan), meaning they have some really great options going.
Plenty of their menu is also marked as gluten-free, with a separate dedicated gluten-free fryer used. It’s perfect for chill but lively atmosphere to eat some good food with friends.
Purezza
An award-winning vegan restaurant in the Northern Quarter serving small plates and pizza, Purezza is one of the best restaurants going if you have dietary requirements.
They have a specific allergens menu, which highlights any of the 14 major allergens that may be present in each dish. And of course they serve up a great gluten-free pizza base!
They are dedicated to offering vegan food that’s not just delicious but also good for you and the planet.
Pieminister
A bit of a different option, offering something I have personally never come across before – gluten-free pies!
Pieminster offer an entirely separate gluten-free menu, which includes a good selection of gluten-free starters and sides too, something that can often be forgotten about!
They also very clearly mark their vegan options, including vegan cheese and vegan ice cream for dessert. A comforting, hearty option that’s otherwise hard to find if you have dietary needs.
Tips for eating out with dietary requirements in Manchester
- Use apps!
The Happy Cow app finds you vegan and vegetarian restaurants near your location, while Find Me Gluten Free does the same but for gluten-free dining. Both include user-reviews for each spot, so it feels reliable and safe!
- Always double-check
It’s always important to double check. Even if something sounds gluten-free or vegan, it’s worth confirming it with staff, just to be safe.
- Check menus and book in advance
I always make sure to look up menus online before booking. It’s helpful to choose places that clearly mark allergens, making your dining experience much smoother. Booking ahead also helps you avoid that awkward moment when friends suggest a spot that you’re not sure will actually cater to your needs.
Final thoughts
Honestly, this list is just the tip of the iceberg. Manchester has so many options for those of us with dietary requirements, so don’t worry – you’ve picked a great place to come to uni.
Don’t feel like you have to stick only to fully gluten-free or vegan restaurants either. Sometimes you can find a hidden gem that may not advertise it loudly but are very happy to accommodate for you. Make sure to always just ask, and you’ll be able to try so many more food spots than you ever thought!
Eating out with dietary requirements can be joyful and fun, and Manchester truly proves that.