Where to go for lunch in central Manchester?

[GothicCola]

Many moons ago, I went to uni in Manchester. Next week, I'm meeting up with a group of old uni friends there. None of us actually live in Manchester anymore and have no idea where is good to go for some lunch. Ideally not too busy/loud so we can actually hear each other talk and catch up. We'd prefer somewhere independent rather than a chain. No specific dietary requirements. Anyone who frequent Manchester have any suggestions? TIA x

I'm a big fan of the Armenian restaurant just across the road from the town hall. Interesting food, good service and I've always found it quiet enough to have a conversation.

How many of you is there? I’m a fan of Hawksmoor, Bundobust and Piccolinos (we used to go to Don Marco loads but the service was shite last time)

The Wharf in Castlefield. Lovely canal side pub, friendly staff and tasty, reasonably priced meals.

https://www.brunningandprice.co.uk/thewharf/

Richmond Tea Rooms just off canal street, beautiful food and atmosphere.

If you're looking for somewhere naice, I'd say Erst or The Sparrows.

Thanks for all the suggestions. I'll do some googling. There will be 5 of us.

Ooh, thanks for mentioning this. I've got a shopping trip to Manchester planned for next Saturday (aka heavily discounted train ticket and a good browse in Uniqlo while they drag their feet opening the Leeds branch) and a nice lunch somewhere different to what's available locally is also part of the plan and that looks perfect.

Dishoom and Bundobust are good if you fancy Indian.

I would go to Refuge on Oxford road .. it has stunning tiled architecture, great food and cocktails and good place for a long lunch

would also recommend Exhibition- you pick from menus from different pop up restaurants..

erst is excellent as is higher ground or Another Hand

Higher Ground was lovely, the menu changes seasonally.

Dishoom is strictly a chain as they have expanded out but one of the best in the business. Service in Manchester was second to none.

Refuge a little busier but never disappoints.

Sparrows is phenomenal, very reasonably priced and great drinks. Winsome is another fab one not yet mentioned. Ancoats has lots of great food places.

American Pies is good, its in Ancoats but can walk through the northern quarter to get there

I 2nd The Sparrows, really good, both food and service!

Maray’s on Brazennose Street is absolutely gorgeous.

I cannot find anything on the menu at the Sparrows that doesn’t feel doughy and make me instantly need a nap (I’m not a carb avoider!)
higher Ground’s a good shout too.

I went to sparrows under duress as i generally don’t like pasta or carbs .. but loved it .. spätzle are feather light and don’t feel heavy with fabulous sauces .. the rest of menu was very good as well.. decor is really interesting.. would definitely recommend

Dimitris by MOSI, Castlefield. Relaxed, delicious Greek food

Sparrows. You will wonder where you're going but it's worth the walk. Or just get a cab.

I didn't initially want to go to sparrows either as I'm not really a pasta lover generally. But loved it. Also there is a sake bar next door, I think it's part of the sparrows too and you get to try different types - a great aperitif before dinner and fun to do with a bunch of friends!