As a student living in Manchester, I have had the wonderful opportunity to explore and enjoy the unique offerings of this vibrant city. With its diverse areas and modern charm, presents a plethora of places that have become my favourites for dining, studying, relaxing, and experiencing the essence of city life.
One of my top spots for eating is Society in Barbirolli Square. It has a collection of independent food and drink traders with lots of beer varieties. Unlike the more bustling Escape to Freight Island, it offers a more low-key atmosphere. It’s a great place to hang out with friends or unwind after a long week of studies. For study sessions or to meet friends, Foundation Coffee House in the Northern Quarter is my go-to. The ambiance, coupled with great coffee, creates the perfect environment for productivity. So many other people also go there to get work done, making it ideal for those long study hours or to just enjoy a coffee. Another favourite of mine for the caffeine fix is Black Sheep Coffee near Piccadilly Station. It is on the pricier side, but you can select double strength coffee beans which really come in handy for cramming. What makes this place stand out is its cozy, stylish upstairs area with lots of plug sockets. Plus, their relatively late closing times, especially on Sundays, are a godsend for late-night study sessions.
El Gato Negro on King Street stands out as an exceptional tapas restaurant. Because it’s on the pricier side, it’s perfect for a date or celebrating special occasions. The ambiance and the delicious food make it really memorable. For those craving a hot pho or filling bahn mi, Pho Cue in Chinatown is my absolute favourite. It offers authentic, classic Vietnamese dishes at great value, making it a popular choice among students and locals alike. From my experience, walking into any restaurant in Chinatown on a whim is almost guaranteed to be good decision. Bundobust is another favourite, especially for lovers of Indian street food and beer. They have two locations across the city. The lively atmosphere and small portions make it good for bringing a group of friends and trying a bit of everything.
In terms of relaxation, walking along the canals in Ancoats is a personal favourite. The ducks and geese, and the repurposed warehouses and factories that have remained unchanged since the Industrial Revolution are a scenic backdrop. In year 1 and 2 living in Fallowfield, walking in Platt Fields was always really calming after classes, and great for sunbathing in warmer weather.
Manchester, through the eyes of a university student, has everything I want in a city. From its food scene, thrift stores, cafes, and blend of old and new buildings, there’s always something new and exciting to experience. Whether it’s trying to pick my favourite coffee shop or just getting lost in a new area, I never get bored living here.
Written by Sonia Roytman, final year BA Modern Language and Business & Management (Japanese) student
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