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9 Irresistible Restaurants Near Manchester Airport for Your Pre-Flight Feast
Flying can be a right faff, can’t it? All that rushing through security, awkwardly balancing your bag while fishing out your boarding pass, and then the dreaded wait at the gate. But before you dive into that airport chaos, why not treat yourself to a proper meal?
Trust me, your taste buds deserve a bit of joy before you’re subjected to the sad, dry sandwich you’ll probably end up buying on the plane. That’s where this list comes in.
We’ve scoured the spots around Manchester Airport to bring you absolute gems where you can grab a bite, sink a pint, or indulge in something fancier than a grab-and-go muffin.
I remember rocking up at the airport once after a half-hearted meal at home (read: a slice of toast and a lukewarm coffee), only to regret it the second I saw someone tucking into a full English at one of these spots.
Never again, I said. And now, I’ve made it my mission to ensure you don’t fall into the same trap. After all, a good meal is the best kind of pre-flight prep, isn’t it? Let’s dive in!
Tatton Arms, Moss Nook
Address: 2 Trenchard Dr, Altrincham WA15 0NB
Contact details: +44 161 903 0093
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM–11PM
Pricing: ££
Website
The Tatton Arms is the kind of pub that makes you question if you’re actually near an airport. Hidden in Moss Nook, just a short drive from the terminals, this place has a proper countryside feel with a riverside view to boot.
Think exposed beams, comfy armchairs, and the kind of warm lighting that makes you want to settle in for a while. Their menu is packed with British pub classics, and they don’t mess about. The fish and chips are a crowd-pleaser – the batter’s crisp, the fish flaky, and the mushy peas?
Surprisingly decent, even if you usually avoid them like the plague. Their pies are another winner, with buttery, golden crusts and fillings that scream comfort food.
And if you’re there on a Sunday, the roast dinner is a proper showstopper – Yorkshire puddings so big they might need their own boarding pass.
Pro tip:
If you’re dining with a group, call ahead to snag one of their larger tables, the place gets lively around dinner.
Romper
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Address: Wilmslow Rd, Altrincham WA15 7LU
Contact details: +44 161 903 9460
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM–11PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Right, so the Romper is one of those rare gems that feels like it’s been plucked straight from a postcard. This 400-year-old pub has all the charm you’d expect – low, wooden beams, a roaring fireplace in the colder months, and plenty of quirky little nooks for a quiet drink or a hearty meal.
It’s about 10 minutes from the airport, making it a prime spot for a proper pre-flight feed.
The menu is full of British favourites, and they don’t cut corners. Their steak and ale pie? Absolute belter.
The pastry’s got that perfect golden flake, and the filling is rich, beefy, and just the right level of boozy from the ale. The sticky toffee pudding is a winner every time – light, moist sponge smothered in gooey toffee sauce and topped with a dollop of vanilla ice cream.
Pro tip:
Pop in for the carvery if you’re there on a Sunday, it’s so good, you’ll be questioning whether you even need to catch your flight.
Flying Horse
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Address: 1 Longstone Rd, Wythenshawe
Contact details: +44 1625 529244
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM–11PM
Pricing: ££
Website
The Flying Horse is your quintessential local pub – warm, inviting, and just the right amount of bustling. Tucked away a short distance from the airport, it’s a proper hidden gem for those in the know.
Walk in, and you’re greeted by a mix of cosy corners, friendly chatter, and a well-stocked bar that’s practically begging for a pint or two. Their menu doesn’t try to be fancy, but it’s spot-on for hearty pub classics done right.
The burgers are stacked high, the fish and chips are golden perfection, and their homemade lasagne? Absolute comfort food goals. And if you’re visiting on a Sunday, the roast is a big deal here – generous portions, tender meat, and Yorkshire puds that are practically cloud-like.
It’s not just about the food, though. The Flying Horse has a cracking beer garden that’s perfect for soaking up the sun with a drink in hand.
Pro tip:
Check out their specials board, it’s where they like to sneak in some surprises.
The Honey Bee
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Address: Altrincham Rd, Wilmslow SK9 4LT
Contact details: +44 1625 525046
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM–11PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Just a quick 10-minute drive from the airport, this charming spot has everything you’d expect from a proper countryside retreat – rustic decor, friendly locals, and food that’ll have you unbuckling your belt.
The menu here is packed with crowd-pleasers. Start with their baked Camembert – gooey, cheesy heaven served with warm bread for dipping. For mains, the slow-cooked lamb shank is a standout, falling off the bone and served with a rich gravy.
If you’re after something lighter, their salads are surprisingly satisfying. And don’t skip dessert – the honeycomb cheesecake is a nod to their name and an absolute dream.
The Honey Bee’s outdoor seating is perfect for sunny afternoons, offering lovely views of the surrounding greenery. Inside, it’s all about cosy vibes with exposed beams and low lighting that makes you want to linger a little longer.
Pro tip:
Book a table if you’re coming on a weekend, the locals know how good it is, and it fills up fast.
The Grain Loft
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Address: Terminal 1, Manchester Airport
Contact details: +44 161 489 2313
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun: 5AM – 10PM
Pricing: ££
Website
If you’re looking for a spot that balances convenience and quality, The Grain Loft in Terminal 1 is a no-brainer. It’s got that relaxed, modern vibe that doesn’t scream “airport chaos,” which is already a win when you’re in transit.
Breakfasts here are solid, think loaded bacon sandwiches and fluffy scrambled eggs on toast. But the real magic happens with their mains: burgers that taste like they’re made to order, and salads that won’t leave you feeling like you’ve been cheated.
And because no airport meal is complete without a drink, they’ve got a great range of craft beers and wines to choose from. The Grain Loft has one little trick up its sleeve – seating booths with built-in charging points.
So, not only can you enjoy a meal, but you can also juice up your phone while you’re at it. It’s all about making your travel experience just a bit easier.
Pro tip:
Ask for a booth if you’re planning to hang around for a bit, the charging points are a lifesaver.
San Carlo
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Address: 42 King St W
Contact details: +44 161 834 6226
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 12PM-11PM
Pricing: £££
San Carlo is the crown jewel of Italian dining in Manchester, and their branch near the airport doesn’t cut corners. It’s where classic Italian flavours meet sleek, contemporary vibes.
You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked off to Milan – without the airfare. The menu is stacked with Italian staples. Their lobster ravioli is rich, and indulgent, and pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine.
If you’re into seafood, the spaghetti alle vongole is a must-try – light, garlicky, and packed with fresh clams. And for those who love a hearty meat dish, the veal Milanese is fried to perfection, served with a generous wedge of lemon.
San Carlo’s wine list is extensive, and the staff are well-versed in pairing the perfect bottle with your meal.
Pro tip:
Book in advance and request a window seat for a quieter, more intimate dining experience.
Brasserie Blanc Hale Barns
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Address: Marriott Hotel, Hale Rd, Hale Barns
Contact details: +44 161 980 3303
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun: 12PM – 10PM
Pricing: £££
Website
Brasserie Blanc brings a bit of French sophistication to Hale Barns, and it’s just a short drive from the airport. Owned by renowned chef Raymond Blanc, this place isn’t just about food – it’s about an experience.
The menu is French cuisine at its finest, with a few comforting British touches. Their boeuf bourguignon is a slow-cooked marvel, meltingly tender and paired with buttery mash.
The soufflé, meanwhile, is the kind of dessert that makes you nod appreciatively after every bite – it’s airy, sweet, and downright delightful. If you’re more into lighter fare, the smoked salmon starter with dill and crème fraîche is a fresh and zesty beginning to your meal.
It’s also a great spot for those with dietary needs – the menu has gluten-free and vegetarian options clearly marked, so no one has to miss out.
Pro tip: If you’re flying out later in the day, their lunch set menu is a steal and lets you enjoy high-end dining without breaking the bank.
Bar MCR
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Address: Terminal 1, Manchester Airport
Contact details: +44 161 489 2040
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun: 6AM – 10PM
Pricing: ££
Website
Menu
So you’ve rocked up at Terminal 1 with a bit of time to kill, and your stomach’s already threatening to steal the show. Enter Bar MCR, a slick spot that’s not your run-of-the-mill airport lounge.
If you’re after a proper feed, the full English breakfast is exactly what you need to line your stomach for a long-haul flight. But if you’re not that peckish, they’ve got lighter bites like sandwiches and salads – perfect if you’re saving space for the in-flight snacks (good luck with that).
Drinks? Well, they’ve got you covered, whether it’s a cheeky pint of a locally brewed ale or a no-nonsense G&T.
The real beauty of Bar MCR is its location – close enough to your gate that you won’t feel like you’re legging it when boarding’s called, but tucked away enough to feel like a proper retreat from the chaos of the terminal.
Pro tip:
Ask the staff for their recommendations on local ales, they’ve always got something Mancunian on tap that’ll set you up nicely for your travels.
Archie’s
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Address: Manchester Airport, Terminal 2, Airside M90 1QX
Contact details: +44 161 667 1545
Operating Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM-11PM
Pricing: ££
Archie’s is where American diner vibes meet a playful pink aesthetic. With its bright neon lights and candy-coloured interiors, it’s the perfect place to shake off pre-flight nerves or treat yourself to something indulgent before heading out.
Situated in Terminal 3, it’s one of the most Insta-worthy spots in the airport, but don’t let the fun decor fool you – the food here is the real deal. Their burgers are the stars of the menu, each one stacked high and oozing with flavour.
Their milkshakes are another standout – thick, creamy, and available in all kinds of fun flavours, from Oreo to Nutella. Archie’s also caters well to families, with a menu full of kid-friendly options and quick service that ensures you won’t miss your flight.
Pro tip:
Pair your burger with a side of their loaded fries, it’s a proper indulgence you won’t regret.
