Greater Manchester has become the place to be with new openings happening every week. The city is buzzing with new places and as we head into summer what better way to make the most of the region’s diverse culture and attractions than to try one or two of them?

Below we have compiled a list of great spots to try this summer, ranging from bars and restaurants, new hotels, and attractions the whole family can get stuck into.

1. Skof, Manchester City Centre

Skof opened on the 29 May and is located over in NOMA. Known for its ‘great food and great vibes’ and ‘unpretentious yet ambitious’ approach to fine dining.

Ideal for a date night or if you just fancy treating yourself to delicious food.

2. NQ64 Summer Terrace, Northern Quarter

Born in Manchester in 2019, NQ64 is the arcade bar concept which provides neon-splattered drinking dens, where guests can enjoy game-themed cocktails and craft beers while playing a range of retro arcade machines, pinball and classic consoles to the sounds of a DJ. Inside the arcade, is a game for everyone- retro 80’s lovers can try their luck on Pac-Man, Space Invaders and the classic Golden Axe. For the 90’s cool kids, consoles such as the N64, Megadrive and SNES come with a range of old school games to take you on a trip down memory lane.

The venue has recently opened its doors to its very own beer garden over in the NQ location. They have also launched brand new, giant cocktail sharers including their Rocket Lolly cocktail sharer (that is expected to be a hit) and slushies to fend off the summer heat.

Head down this summer for a fun day out, perfect for all age groups.

3. King Pins, Manchester Arndale

King Pins has landed inside Manchester Arndale and brings with it Ten Pin and Duck Pin Bowling, shuffleboards, batting cages, air hockey and even a mini-golf course. If you are looking for a fun activity to do with friends, family or the kids look no further. Games start from £9 per person.

4. Gran T’s Coffee House, Ancoats

Altrincham favourite Gran T’s has made its way to the city centre and is one to tick off the list. Filled with all your favourite sweet treats from scones, jam and proper brews to hot chocolates stacked with whipped cream and huge slices of cake. A great choice if you are visiting the city for the day and need a little pick me up!

5. Leo + Roobs, Salford

Leo and Roobs is coming this summer and is a vibrant neighbourhood café in the Blackfriars area of Salford, created by the team behind Salford pub, The Black Friar.

You will find cosy indoor seating and al fresco tables in the café, perfect for the little ones!

6. CuppaPug, Chapel St Manchester City Centre

CuppaPug is a pink, pug haven designed for families, couples and individuals alike. Alongside the adorable tail wagging and pug cuddles, they also offer pug-themed snacks and drinks. Bookings start from £15 per person.

If you are looking to experience something new, as well as supporting a good cause then get booked in.

7. LÜCKY, Ancoats

LÜCKY is Manchester’s ramen hotspot, located over in Ancoats. Expect to be wowed by their dishes, they have recently launched their pan-asian brunch time menu which includes Italian big tube pasta with lots of Indonesian pulled pork, Asian mushrooms including shiitake, oyster and enoki on a bed of guacamole, feta, poached egg + toasted sourdough, steak + eggs and much more.

Another great spot to refuel in that will later in the day turn into a ramen, sushi haven!

8. MAYA, Canal St Manchester City Centre

MAYA have opened over on Canal Street offering another fine dining experience. What is great about this place is that they are regularly changing their seasonal menu so expect to try something different every time!

9. That Burger Place, Salford

Hailing from Walkden in 2017, this popular burger spot was named in the National Burger Awards and has now opened its second location in Salford. Serving up their famous Smashburgers, chicken sandwiches, and common favourite Kevin Bacon Fries.

For any burger lovers this is your reminder to check this place out!

10. Dakota’s sanctuary of tranquillity, City Centre

Looking for your very own sanctuary of tranquillity? Dakota have reopened their famous summer terrace, and everyone is welcome! Expect to be wowed by their brunch menu and light bites.

A hidden haven where you can escape from the chaos of everyday life and enjoy a cocktail or two in the sun!

11. Rola Wala, Deansgate

Looking for healthy and fast Indian food? Rola Wala has just what you need. Recently opened over in Deansgate, they offer footlong naan rolls, hearty curry bowls, and vibrant naan tacos and much more. Not only this, but for every roll sold at Rola Wala, they provide a school meal to a child living in poverty. A great initiative that supports an even greater cause! 

12. Hinterland Alcohol-Free Bar

Hinterland is an alcohol-free bar, café, and tea space in the Northern Quarter. Their mission is to create a space where people can develop meaningful friendships and have deep conversations without the need for booze. 

New Hotel Openings: Maldron Hotel, Manchester Cathedral Quarter

Maldron have opened over in Cathedral Quarter and are just minutes away from the Arndale Shopping Centre, Manchester Football Museum, and the AO Arena.

The rooms are spacious and modern, and their Grain & Grill bar and restaurant is not to be missed. Whether you are visiting for the first time or looking to stay somewhere new, Maldron will take good care of you.

Malmaison, Manchester Deansgate

Malmaison opened this year over in Deansgate, another popular area within the city. Buzzing with bars and restaurants on its doorstep, it's a great place to stay if you are visiting for a few days and want to be right in the middle of the bustling city life!