Manchester Study Journey

Manchester is not only home to world-class colleges and universities and a strong academic atmosphere, but it is also known for its diverse dining culture. Here, students can cater for different tastes and budgets at any time, from the affordability of the campus canteen, to the authentic tastes of street trolleys, to the exquisite afternoon tea of independent cafes, and even the international flavours of restaurants all over the city. Whether you're looking for a steaming bowl of soup noodles for your final paper or a special dessert after class, there are surprises to be found in every corner of Manchester. This blog will take you on a tour of some of Manchester's favourite eateries, discovering must-try dishes at great prices and cosy environments to enjoy while you study, making your time abroad not only fulfilling, but also deliciously memorable.

Top10 Restaurants 7 Pubs for Students

Kro Bar 

Located in the main University of Manchester campus, near to various UoM accommodation. Kro Bar specialises in burgers, hotdogs and Danish, and with a fixed 10% discount for all students and one free for two people every day (e.g. burger Tuesdays, waffles Saturdays), it's a great way to save money and catch up with new friends and old ones.

Common

Located at 39-41 Edge Street in the Northern Quarter, 

is open daily from 12:00pm-late, offering authentic Nell's Pizza, 13 craft beer taps and creative cocktails, half-price drinks on Happy Hour and regular live DJs and art exhibitions. 

Kyotoya

Kyotoya serves hearty Japanese set menus every day, with a main course + starter + beer for less than £20, and the signature chicken yakisoba and tonkatsu have been well-received, making it a popular choice for students who want to eat a big portion but don't want to break the bank.

Point Blank Shooting

This collegiate-style backroom-style bar combines a shooting simulation experience with an unlimited drinks brunch on Sundays and 2 cocktails for £12 on weekdays in a creative setting that's perfect for students living in student properties Manchester to relax and party together.

Student's Union

Conveniently located and affordable, the Campus Students' Union bar offers year-round beer and pool specials, as well as midweek-themed parties, making it a great place to meet students from all colleges, relax, and experience the campus culture.

BrewDog Outpost

Located on Oxford Road, next to the University of Manchester Business School, BrewDog Outpost is open daily from 16:00-19:00 for buy-one-get-one-free cocktail. With an industrial-style décor and a selection of signature IPAs, as well as artisanal burgers and wings, it's perfect for an after-school drink or for catching up with classmates.

Tampopo

With three branches, Tampopo is known for its authentic Japanese ramen and Thai curry, at £8-£12 per person, and is close to Albert Square and the Corn Exchange, making it easy to hit up for lunch and dinner, with a steady stream of flavours and generous portions.

The Mess Café

Mess Café specialises in artisanal coffee and light meals, and is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 16:00. It has a cosy atmosphere and is part of a non-profit organisation that provides employment and training for disadvantaged groups, so you can support social causes while you patronise.

Erst

Erst is a natural bar and seasonal tapas restaurant offering a selection of low-intervention wines paired with small portions, open Tuesday to Saturday from 13:00-22:00, with discounts for students with official website vouchers, perfect for a small evening gathering and a first taste of wine tasting.

Curry Mile

Curry Mile is South Manchester's most concentrated Asian food street, with dozens of Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Middle Eastern restaurants open late into the night at affordable prices, and is just a few stops away from the University of Manchester and MMU campuses, making it a great place for after-school late-night snacks and exotic experiences.