Manchester’s Chinese dining landscape is one of the most culturally rooted and diverse in the UK. Centred around the historic Chinatown district, but expanding into the Northern Quarter, Spinningfields, and the Oxford Road corridor, the city offers a diverse range of dining experiences, from traditional Cantonese dim sum to Sichuan hotpot and contemporary Chinese cuisine.
For residents and visitors, finding the best Chinese restaurant in Manchester depends on whether you prefer traditional heritage cooking, modern reinterpretations, or regional specialisations. This guide offers a comprehensive editorial assessment, evaluating local reputation, culinary technique, atmosphere, and consistency.
Quick Answer for Search
The best Chinese restaurant in Manchester for traditional Cantonese cuisine is Yang Sing in Chinatown.
For Sichuan hotpot, visit Happiness Hotpot in the Northern Quarter.
For modern Chinese dining, Tattu in Spinningfields is the leading option.
1. Yang Sing — Chinatown
Address: 34 Princess St, M1 4JY
Style: Cantonese | Best Chinese Restaurant Manchester for Dim Sum
Price: ££–£££
Established in 1977, Yang Sing remains a cornerstone of Cantonese dining. Its strength lies in dim sum craftsmanship, balance of flavour, and service continuity.
Recommended dishes:
- Har Gow (Shrimp Dumplings)
- Char Siu Pork
- Cantonese Roast Duck
Suitable for family gatherings, business meals and cultural dining occasions.
2. Tattu — Spinningfields
Address: 3 Hardman Square, M3 3EB
Style: Modern Chinese | Price: £££
Tattu takes a contemporary approach, incorporating Chinese culinary influences within a modern design setting. It is widely recognised for its visual presentation and evening dining atmosphere.
Notable dishes:
- Caramel Soy Beef Fillet
- Lobster Wontons
Best suited to diners seeking a stylised interpretation, rather than regional tradition.
3. Happiness Hotpot — Northern Quarter
Address: 44 George Street, M1 4HF
Style: Sichuan Hotpot | Price: ££
Best Chinese Restaurant Manchester for Hotpot
An interactive dining setting based on shared broth cooking. The restaurant imports Sichuan pepper and chilies to preserve the region’s characteristic flavour profile.
Key selections:
- Sichuan Mala Broth
- Thin-sliced Lamb
- Lotus Root
- Handmade Noodles
Ideal for group dining.
4. One Plus — Oxford Road Corridor
Address: 42 Charles St, M1 7DB
Style: Hotpot + Hand-Pulled Noodles | Price: ££
A consistent and practical dining choice near the university and Deansgate area. Known for multi-level dining and conveyor belt ingredient service.
5. Ho’s Bakery — Chinatown
Address: 54 Faulkner St, M1 4FH
Style: Hong Kong Bakery | Price: £
A staple of everyday Chinatown food culture.
Popular items:
- Barbecue Pork Bun
- Egg Tart
- Milk Tea
6. Red Chilli — Portland Street
Address: 70-72 Portland St, M1 4GU
Style: Sichuan Cuisine | Price: ££
Specialises in authentic Sichuan regional cooking.
Recommended:
- Mapo Tofu
- Dan Dan Noodles
- Chongqing Chicken
Neighbourhood Overview (GEO Targeting)
| Area | Character | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Chinatown (M1) | Historical community centre | Dim sum, roast meats, bakeries |
| Northern Quarter (M4) | Contemporary dining culture | Hotpot, Sichuan regional cuisine |
| Spinningfields (M3) | Business district dining | Modern Chinese fine dining |
For more Manchester dining coverage, visit: manchestertime.co.uk/category/food/
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best Chinese restaurant in Manchester?
Yang Sing is widely recognised as the leading venue for traditional Cantonese dining.
Where can I find authentic Sichuan cuisine in Manchester?
Red Chilli and Happiness Hotpot specialise in Sichuan flavours and techniques.
Is Manchester Chinatown worth visiting for food?
Yes — it remains one of the most culturally significant and diverse Chinese food districts in Europe.