Cool and unusual bars in Manchester

Alcohol-free signature

A glamorous underground restaurant and bar off The Avenue, serving Australian and Pan-Asian food. It relaunched in 2025 with open-flame cooking, and the bar is a smart spot for a cocktail before dinner.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureAngelino Manchester raspberry gin, Cartron fraise de Boise, ODK watermelon, Lime juice, Apple juice, Vanilla

Alcohol-freeCrimson cooler vegan

Opening timesTemporarily closed, says Google Maps. Check with the venue.

1 The Avenue, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3AP

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Alcohol-free signature

A gaming bar on Brown Street from the team behind El Gato Negro, with shuffleboard and darts alongside the cocktails. Made for groups and friendly rivalry.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureEspresso Mintini vodka, Kahlua, Creme de Menthe, Demerera Syrup, Cold Brew coffee, Whipped Cream, After Eight

Alcohol-freeVirgin Espresso Mintini

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu noon to 11pm, Fri and Sat noon to 2am, Sun noon to 11pm

43a Brown Street, Manchester, M2 2JJ

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A high-tech shuffleboard bar on Deansgate where cameras keep the score for you. Built for groups, with cocktails and food to share between games.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureThe Compass Sour Southern Comfort, Shankys Whip, Orange Juice, Lemon Juice, Passionfruit Puree, foaming bitters

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Wed 4pm to midnight, Thu 11am to midnight, Fri and Sat 11am to 1am, Sun 11am to 11pm

201 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3NW

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Alcohol-free signature

A two-storey Greek and Mediterranean restaurant in St John's from the team behind Tattu. Ask for The Nest, the moody cave-like bar at the entrance, for a cocktail before dinner.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureAphrodite's Veil Feta Fat washed Meili Vodka, Watermelon, Vermouth

Alcohol-freeBeneath the Veil

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Wed noon to midnight, Thu noon to 12:30am, Fri and Sat noon to 1am, Sun noon to midnight

Goods Yard St, Manchester, M3 3BG

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Alcohol-free signature

A social darts bar in Ship Canal House on King Street, with automatic scoring and games built for groups. Cocktails and food come to your oche.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureCerulean Breeze AU Blue RasP, Apple Juice, Coconut, St. Germain, Apple Syrup, Lime Juice, Mint sprig, Dried Raspberries

Alcohol-freeCitrus Bliss vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu 11am to midnight, Fri and Sat 11am to 1am, Sun 11am to 11pm

Ship Canal House, 98 King St, Manchester, M2 4WU

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Alcohol-free signature

An Argentinian steak restaurant in a 19th-century former church just off Deansgate, reopened in August 2026 after a full refurbishment. A mezzanine looks down over the dining room.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signaturePomegranate Spritz Axia Mastic Spirit, Renais gin, Dolce Vita Aperitivo, Pomegranate cordial, simple syrup, Citrus Blend, Cranberry & Ginger tonic

Alcohol-freePomegranate Smash vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Sat noon to 11pm, Sun noon to 10:30pm

2A St Mary's St, Manchester, M3 2LB

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Alcohol-free signature

A grand colonial-style bar and pan-Asian restaurant in the Grade II listed former Reform Club, built in 1870 to 1871. The central bar sits under a golden palm chandelier.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signaturePeacock Rum, Blue Curacao, Pineapple, Lime, Kiwi

Alcohol-freeSpring Bloom vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon closed, Tue to Thu noon to midnight, Fri and Sat noon to 1am, Sun noon to midnight

50 Spring Gardens, Manchester, M2 1EN

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Alcohol-free signature

The brasserie and bar at the Heathcote Hotel on Piccadilly, in an 1899 Grade II listed building designed by Charles Heathcote. Handy before a train from Piccadilly.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureThe Heathcote Mag Absolut Vodka, Blanco Tequila, Bombay Sapphire Gin, Bacardi white rum, Triple Sec, Lime Juice, Sugar Syrup

Alcohol-freeApple Mojito vegan

107 Piccadilly, Manchester, M1 2DB

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Alcohol-free signature

A basement tiki bar on Stevenson Square with palm leaves, fish tanks and tiki classics, including drinks made to share. One of the Northern Quarter's best-known hidden bars.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureThe Honey Monster Rum, Zombie Mix, Fire

Alcohol-freeThe Honey Monster 0% vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu closed, Fri and Sat 10pm to 6am, Sun closed

11 Stevenson Sq, Manchester, M1 1DB

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Alcohol-free signature

A bowling and games venue in Manchester Arndale, with lanes, games zones and a full bar. A fun one for a group before heading into the Northern Quarter.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureSpiced Mango Margarita Coconut Tequilla, Lime Juice, Mango Puree, Coconut syrup, fresh chilli, Tajin, Lime

Alcohol-freeSpiced Mango Margarita 0% vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu 11am to 10pm, Fri 11am to 10:30pm, Sat 10am to 10:30pm, Sun 10am to 9pm

Market St, New Cannon St Mall, Manchester, M4 3AQ

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Alcohol-free signature

A three-storey bar in a restored 19th-century lock keeper's cottage at Deansgate Locks, with a canal-side terrace. Expect live music, quizzes and salsa nights.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureVelvet Bloom JJ Whitley Gin, Creme de Violette, Lemon Juice, Egg White, Sugar syrup, Parma Violet sugar

Alcohol-freeCoconut Paradise vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon and Tue closed, Wed and Thu 5pm to 11pm, Fri 5pm to midnight, Sat 2pm to midnight, Sun closed

9 Century St, Manchester, M3 4QL

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Alcohol-free signature

A retro arcade bar on Tib Street, with classic arcade machines and consoles under neon graffiti. Cocktails come with game-themed names.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureGrapefruit Gauntlet Havana Club 3 rum, grapefruit sherbet, lime, grapefruit soda

Alcohol-freeCrimson cooler vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu 2pm to 2am, Fri and Sat noon to 3am, Sun 11am to 2am

12 Tib St, Manchester, M4 1SH

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Alcohol-free signature

The second NQ64, on Peter Street near Deansgate, with retro arcade machines, neon graffiti and cocktails named after games.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureVimto Defender Altos tequila, cherry, dragon fruit & papaya, lime juice, Vimto

Alcohol-freeVimto Defender 0% vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu 4pm to 2am, Fri 4pm to 3am, Sat noon to 3am, Sun 11am to 2am

23 Peter St, Manchester, M2 5QR

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Alcohol-free signature

A Japanese and Mexican restaurant at the Radisson Blu Edwardian, inside the historic Free Trade Hall on Peter Street. A polished choice for dinner and cocktails.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureNatsu Highball vodka infused with mango & strawberry tea, Strawberry liqueur, Sugar syrup, Lime juice, Passion Fruit Liqueur, Strawberry Bitters, Grapefruit Soda

Alcohol-freeNatsu Marine vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon closed, Tue to Thu 5pm to 10pm, Fri and Sat 4pm to 10:45pm, Sun closed

Peter Street Kitchen, Free Trade Hall, Peter St, M2 5GP

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Alcohol-free signature

An indoor golf bar at Goods Yard in St John's, with 10 simulator bays, shuffleboard and DJs later on. A good shout for a group that wants an activity.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureSpicy Margarita eljimador tequila, Cointreau, Lime Juice, sugar syrup, chilli flakes, tabasco

Alcohol-freeVirgin Spicy Margarita vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Wed 11am to 8pm, Thu to Sat 11am to 10pm, Sun 11am to 6pm

6 Goods Yard Street, Manchester, M3 3BG

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Alcohol-free signature

A retro games bar on Deansgate with table tennis, air hockey and shuffleboard, plus pizza and a heated outdoor terrace.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureVimto Margarita Olmeca Altos Plata Tequila, Cartron Triple Sec, Vimto Cordial, Lime Juice, Sugar Syrup

Alcohol-freeVimto Margarita Mocktail

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon closed, Tue to Sat noon to 11pm, Sun noon to 10pm

235 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4EN

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Alcohol-free signature

Bowling, pool and table tennis under one roof on Withy Grove by the Arndale, with cocktails and food. Easy to book for a group.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureShe's Electric Coconut Tequilla, Lime Juice, Mango Puree, Coconut syrup, fresh chilli, Tajin, Lime Wheel

Alcohol-freeShe's Electric 0%

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Wed noon to 11pm, Thu noon to midnight, Fri noon to 12:30am, Sat 11am to 12:30am, Sun noon to 10pm

Withy Grove, New Cannon St Mall, Manchester, M4 3AQ

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Alcohol-free signature

The Deansgate Roxy Ball Room, with bowling, pool and table tennis plus a full bar. A good base for a group night.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureShe's Electric Coconut Tequilla, Lime Juice, Mango Puree, Coconut syrup, fresh chilli, Tajin, Lime Wheel

Alcohol-freeShe's Electric 0%

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Wed 3pm to 11pm, Thu 3pm to midnight, Fri and Sat noon to 12:30am, Sun noon to 10pm

76-78 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 2FW

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Alcohol-free signature

The lower-ground bar at Mollie's hotel in the old Granada TV studios, with plush booths and retro lighting. A tucked-away spot for a proper cocktail.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureFreefall Koko Kanu Rum, Caribbean Pineapple Liqueur, Raspberry Coulis, Lime Juice, Lemon Juice, Coconut Syrup, clarified full fat milk

Alcohol-freeKi' & T vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu noon to midnight, Fri noon to 1am, Sat noon to 2am, Sun noon to 11pm

Quay Street, Manchester, M60 9EA

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Alcohol-free signature

A Grade II listed pub in Salford, built in 1886 and reopened as a gastropub in 2021 after years of dereliction. Worth the short walk from Deansgate.

Alcohol-freeImmaculate Conception vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon noon to 9pm, Tue to Thu noon to 10pm, Fri and Sat noon to 11pm, Sun noon to 9pm

41-43 Blackfriars Rd, Salford, M3 7DB

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Alcohol-free signature

A 1920s-style speakeasy on Stevenson Square, with its entrance on Little Lever Street, velvet sofas and classic cocktails. A Northern Quarter favourite for a date.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureThe Basil Instinct Rum, Pineapple Syrup, Soda Water, Basil

Alcohol-freeThe Basil Instinct 0% vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu closed, Fri and Sat 5pm to 4am, Sun closed

11 Stevenson Sq, Manchester, M1 1DB

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Alcohol-free signature

The grand Edwardian hotel on Peter Street, opened in 1903, with the Lounge and Champagne Bar and the Mount Street Bar for cocktails.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureMidland Noir Sipsmith Sloe Gin, Calvados, Manzana Verde, apple cordial

Alcohol-freeGarden Zero vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberEvery day open 24 hours

16 Peter St, Manchester, M60 2DS

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Alcohol-free signature

The bar and restaurant at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel on Oxford Street, in the former Refuge Assurance building by Oxford Road station.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureCotton Exchange Tahini-infused rum, demerara sugar, cardamom bitters

Alcohol-freeWest Coast Cooler vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu 10am to 11pm, Fri and Sat 10am to midnight, Sun 10am to 10:30pm

Oxford St, Manchester, M60 7HA

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Alcohol-free signature

A hotel in the former Midland Bank headquarters on King Street, designed by Edwin Lutyens and built between 1928 and 1932. It was Hotel Gotham until April 2026.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signaturePassion Drift gin, Aperol, passion fruit syrup, fresh lime juice, Soda water, Ice

Alcohol-freeTropical Bloom vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberEvery day open 24 hours

100 King St, Manchester, M2 4WU

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Alcohol-free signature

A Miami-themed bowling bar on Whitworth Street West, with neon, games and themed cocktails.

Manchester Cocktail Week 2026 signatureClub Tropicana Havana Club Especial rum, falernum, peach, blue curacao, pineapple, orange, lime

Alcohol-freeClub Tropicana 0% vegan

Opening times from Google Maps, checked 7 NovemberMon to Thu 4pm to midnight, Fri 4pm to 2am, Sat noon to 2am, Sun noon to midnight

57 Whitworth St West, Manchester, M1 5WW

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