Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 10 Restaurants for a Lovely Valentine’s Day in Manchester
Valentine’s Day is one of the most special celebrations of the year, perhaps second only to Christmas or the New Year, especially for those with a significant other.
And of course, only the best will do on this occassion—whether it’s the perfect couple activity, a thoughtful gift, a stunning bouquet, or an unforgettable Valentine’s dinner.
With most of our team facing the same annual challenge, we’ve put our heads together to make your planning a little easier with a curated list of our most recommended places to eat on Cupid’s chosen day.
Let’s dive in, shall we?
Fine Dining Experiences
Adam Reid at The French
Media from Adam Reid at The French
Address: The Midland Hotel, 16 Peter St, M60 2DS
Contact details: [email protected]
Operating hours:
- Wednesday to Saturday – 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Sunday to Tuesday – CLOSED
Pricing: £££
Manchester-born and raised Chef Adam Reid has made the French at the Midland Hotel a top destination for an indulgent and refined dining experience. His culinary expertise and signature “magic” make this hotel restaurant the perfect spot for a memorable and tasty Valentine’s dinner.
You can choose from a four-, six-, or nine-course tasting menu, with dishes that change based on the availability of ingredients and the chef’s inspiration.
The menu still follows a general trend, so expect a well-balanced selection, from cold cuts and shellfish to expertly prepared meats, cheeses, custards, and sweet treats.
Pro tip:
Want a table at this sought-after spot? Skip the phone and emails—your best bet is to book in person at the French’s front-of-house, especially for peak seasons like Valentine’s Day.
20 Stories
Media from 20 Stories Manchester
Address: No 1 Spinningfields, 1 Hardman Square, Spinningfields, M3 3EB
Contact details: 0161 204 3333
Operating hours:
- Monday to Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Pricing: £££
For a sophisticated Valentine’s celebration with breathtaking views, 20 Stories will always be a top pick of ours.
Whether you fancy fine dining or just a few drinks, this rooftop spot has you covered. There’s lunch and dinner service for gourmands and a sky bar for those who enjoy a tipple while living the (literal) high life.
To indulge a bit more, treat yourself to afternoon tea, complete with exquisite pastries and the finest brews in town. Then, return for your Valentine’s dinner—there’s a special menu for the occasion, but if it isn’t your style, then go à la carte with the pan-seared cod and house wine.
Pro tip:
Book well in advance and stick to the dress code—glamour attire only! Don’t wear shorts, trainers, or slides, or you’ll be politely shown the door.
Cosy and Intimate Settings
The Spärrows
Media from The Sparrows, Pasta & Spätzle
Address: 16 Red Bank, Green Quarter, M4 4HF
Contact details: 0161 302 6267
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday – 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 10:30 PM
- Monday – CLOSED
Pricing: £
Our first visit to the Spärrows was all about good vibes and fantastic German comfort food. We’re definitely glad to be back again—especially after the Michelin Guide awarded it a Bib Gourmand for 2025.
For a cosy Valentine’s meal, you can’t go wrong with the chorizo spätzle. This homely noodle speciality feels like a warm embrace that’s perfect for lovers and the broken-hearted alike.
And since it’s heart’s day, why not go a bit wild? Pair it with a glass (or bottle?) of wine or schnapps from the drink menu, and you’re in for a treat.
Pro tip:
Can’t get a table at the Spärrows? Don’t worry—try your luck at 21 KITCHEN AND BAR, its pop-up just a few doors away!
Higher Ground
Media from Higher Ground
Address: Faulkner House, New York St, M1 4DY
Contact details: 0161 236 2931
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday – 12:30 PM to 1:30 PM, 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM, 5:30 PM to 11:30 PM
- Sunday to Tuesday – CLOSED
Pricing: ££
Another Michelin Bib Gourmand winner on our Valentine’s list is Higher Ground, a stylish modern bistro near Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens. It offers lunch and dinner menus.
With a menu that changes daily, this resto is all about showcasing the talent of its kitchen staff. Its commitment to using fresh, locally sourced produce from partner Cinderwood Market Garden in Cheshire, along with top-quality meat and seafood, is something to admire.
While we can’t say for sure what will be on the menu for Valentine’s, we’re certain that you and your date (or dates) are in for a lovely treat.
Pro tip:
Reserve seats at the usual tables for a relaxed meal, or grab one of those bar seats for a fancy front-row view of the chefs’ kitchen magic!
Unique Culinary Experiences
KAJI
Media from KAJI by MUSU
Address: 64 Bridge St, M3 3BN
Contact details: 0161 883 7746
Operating hours:
- Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday to Tuesday – CLOSED
Pricing: ££
If a trip to Japan isn’t on the cards right now, you can still experience a taste of it this Valentine’s Day at KAJI. This modern Japanese resto is just a short stroll from Deansgate and offers a chic and refined dining experience for a reasonable price.
For something truly special, opt for the omakase service, where you’ll get a private audience with KAJI’s master sushi chefs and eat their masterpieces that are as delightful in taste as they’re stunning to the eyes.
Be warned, though: omakase seats are limited to six per service, so demand is high. If you miss out, the tasting menu is still an excellent way to savour the best of KAJI.
Pro tip:
KAJI’s signature colours are black and fiery red—perfect for Valentine’s. Just be careful enough not to blend in with the decor, unless that’s the look you’re looking for!
Climat
Media from Climat
Address: 8th Floor, Blackfriars House, Parsonage St, M3 2JA
Contact details: 0161 710 2885
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday – 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Sunday and Monday – CLOSED
Pricing: ££
Climat feels more like a refined, classy wine bar than a traditional restaurant, which makes it an ideal spot to round off a romantic Valentine’s Day evening. Conveniently located in the city centre, it’s easy to pop in here after having dinner at other Mancunian date spots.
The wine and spirits collection that’s expertly curated by Climat’s sommelier is top-notch. However, please don’t overlook the food—the small plates, from fresh salads to trendy, tasty bar bites, are one for the books.
If you fancy something even more special, give the beef tartare a go, because you won’t find many places in the city making it like Climat does.
Pro tip:
Climat is a cash-free venue, so don’t forget your card!
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Maray Manchester
Media from Maray
Address: 14 Brazennose St, Deansgate, M2 6LW
Contact details: 0151 347 0214
Operating hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Pricing: ££
For a Valentine’s dinner with a Middle Eastern flare, Maray’s Manchester branch on Deansgate is a top pick we recommend to those looking for vegan and vegetarian delights.
While the decor looks bland to us—more like a half-hearted attempt at the industrial feel than a romantic one—Maray still has cosiness that somehow works for a relaxing and intimate meal.
The star of the show is the cauliflower. The vegetarian “Disco” features a whole deep-fried cauliflower head topped with chermoula, harissa, tahini, and yoghurt. Meanwhile, the vegan version keeps the same flavours but skips the dairy—either way a definite must-try.
Pro tip:
Whatever you do, save room for dessert! Maray’s salted chocolate ganache made with Biscoff, Chantilly cream, and tahini tastes divine.
MAYA
Media from MAYA
Address: 40 Chorlton St, M1 3HW
Contact details: 0161 517 0000
Operating hours:
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Thursday – 5:00 PM to 2:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Sunday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Monday – CLOSED
Pricing: £££
If you and your date find yourselves in the heart of the Gay Village, don’t miss a chance to eat at MAYA. This refined fine dining spot is elegant and ravishing from floor to ceiling, making it a splendid choice for a romantic evening.
The food at MAYA is just as sophisticated as its decor, featuring dishes with delicate, well-balanced flavours. It’s also great for those with dietary restrictions—gluten-free and vegetarian options pepper the menu.
To complete the experience, pair your plate with one of MAYA’s signature cocktails—the truffle sour might just steal the show!
Pro tip:
MAYA creates a unique menu for special occasions like Valentine’s. However, great food and experience come at a price—the already “posh” pricing tends to get even “posher” for these types of offerings.
Live Music Venues
Matt & Phreds Jazz Club
Media from Matt & Phreds
Address: 64 Tib St, Northern Quarter, M4 1LW
Contact details: 0161 273 5495
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 6:00 PM to 12:30 AM
- Friday and Saturday – 6:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Sunday – CLOSED
Pricing: £
Let’s be honest—if you’re not a music lover, then you probably wouldn’t have much reason to be at Matt & Phreds on Valentine’s Day. (Unless you’re trying to impress someone, but hey, that’s none of our business, ha!)
We’ve included this iconic venue on our V-Day list not for the food but for the unbeatable atmosphere. Whether you’re coupled up or flying solo, its top-tier acts will keep your energy high all night.
That said, you’ll likely get peckish in the middle of a set. While the menu is pretty much all about pizza and some finger food, it’s delicious and just enough to keep you up and dancing the night away!
Pro tip:
Book well in advance for a seat BUT with the lively crowd, expect to spend plenty of your time on your feet!
The Blues Kitchen
Media from The Blues Kitchen Manchester
Address: 13 Quay St, M3 3HN
Contact details: 0161 823 6343
Operating hours:
- Sunday and Monday – 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Tuesday and Wednesday – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM
- Thursday – 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM
- Friday – 12:00 PM to 3:00 AM
- Saturday – 11:00 AM to 3:00 AM
Pricing: ££
Celebrate the day of love with soulful music and mouth-watering American food at the Blues Kitchen. This live event venue isn’t just a go-to spot for live music, but it’s also filled with good vibes for the great food and expansive dining and group areas.
For a laid-back yet memorable night, get a bite of the Kitchen’s crispy fried chicken, and don’t forget to dip it in the flavourful bacon gravy.
Pair it with a pint of craft beer then finish the meal with the famous Oreo doughnuts (deep-fried balls of dough—without the hole—served with a toffee sauce) which are great sweets to cap off a sweet day.
Pro tip:
Show up early on Valentine’s to avoid a queue and get a higher chance of snagging the best tables (or the area nearest the stage, if you’re seeing a show).
