Ancoats is Manchester’s up-and-coming neighborhood filled with contrasts just waiting to be discovered. Think Scandinavian eateries sandwiched between craft breweries, Japanese teahouses, and fragments of times gone by. This unique Manchester neighborhood was once a gritty district. It was at the very core of the industrial revolution due to the many textile mills in the area and controlled by the notorious 19th-century street gangs the Angels and Bengal Tigers, who fought their turf wars in the surrounding streets. Nowadays, an extensive regeneration project has turned Ancoats into an artsy hotspot filled with trendy cafes, bars, and boutiques. Keep an eye out for the so-called “Peeps”, brass spy holes in walls and buildings which offer a unique peek into the history of the area. But what am I saying? You probably don't know much about the Ancoats neighborhood - yet. I am about to reveal all to you, so pay attention.
Discover The Thriving Food Scene
In Ancoats, Manchester's unique food scene thrives - you just need to keep your eyes open. Start the day with a health kick and head to the Kettlebell Kitchen who offer a range of breakfast options including protein oats or avo salmon smash as well as the famous “bulletproof coffee” (strong double shot coffee with added butter). The lunchtime menu consists of classic but healthy options of burgers and wraps as well as the “Kettlebell box” which comes in three sizes and allows you to select your own ingredients from a range of fresh veg, base and protein. If you are feeling adventurous try out the signature “Peanut butter protein fries”. You cannot go wrong with this hidden gem nestled at the heart of the Manchester neighbourhood.
Enjoy Wholesome Food
If you’re on a food mission in the Ancoats neighbourhood then swing by Rudy's Neapolitan Pizza, named after the owner's dog. The small independent restaurant only uses high quality fresh ingredients and in 2016 even won City Life Award’s best casual dining restaurant. Despite its fame and hipster following prices are still affordable at an average of £7 per pizza. Wander the streets of Manchester's Ancoats and you will discover the Cutting Room Bar & Café, located at the heart of Ancoats’ Cutting Room Square. Small but perfectly formed and with a quirky vintage feel interior that includes a counter made up of old suitcases. The menu offers everything from breakfast options as well as various lunch time basics including, home made soup, sandwiches and burgers. There is a regular quiz night on Wednesdays as well as occasional live music.
Grab A Drink
The Ancoats neighbourhood is packed with quirky pubs, bars and a number of other venues to hang out at but for a truly unique drinking experience, I recommend Cha-ology, which serves authentic Japanese tea, sweats (including homemade matcha ice cream) and cakes in a minimalist but stylish setting. The café has a raised wooden seating area with comfortable cushions and in true Japanese style, there is a “no shoes” policy. Having quickly gained popularity among locals of this Manchester neighbourhood, you might have to be prepared for a short wait for a table though. Why not try something new and sample the extensive selection of locally brewed beers at Seven Bro7hers Brewery? As the name suggests, the micro-brewery at the heart of Manchester's Ancoats is a family business and produces a range of craft beers including watermelon wheat beer and the vegan beer Club of Slaughters. The interior is a mix of exposed brick walls, wood panelling and large comfy chesterfield sofas which create a relaxed atmosphere and the bar even has a stage for live music performances.
Explore All The Culture
With food and drink out of the way, you may be wondering what to do next in Ancoats. There are so many things happening in this vibrant Manchester neighbourhood! Soak up the atmosphere of the area by taking a long walk along the Rochdale canal and admire the old warehouse buildings and vibrant street art or take in some local culture at the Grade II listed Hope Mill Theatre. The five-story former cotton mill is home to a number of creative studios as well as a theatre showcasing a variety of plays and musicals which can get pretty experimental! And don’t forget the “peeps”. These are a quirky addition to the neighbourhood, which gives a literal glimpse into Ancoat’s former industrial life. Just look out for the small brass eyepieces on various walls as you’re out and about, and take a look inside - you never know what historic gem might be concealed behind the wall!
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