Deliveroo has just added a whopping 25 new traders to its site, including some of our all-time favourites.
There are already some great restaurants on there – but now we’re even more spoilt for choice.
From lockdown success stories like Lazy Tony’s Lasagneria to elite new Chorlton fried chicken spot ZAXXFRIED, there are some great new restaurant additions to discover this October.
Image: Lazy Tony’s Lasagneria
Lazy Tony’s Lasagneria
Serving up ive-layer lasagne, frazzle-dusted mac and cheese and the most indulgent mozzarella dippers you’ve ever seen, Lazy Tony’s makes a very welcome new addition to Deliveroo. If you’re looking for that ultimate comfort food treat, you really can’t go wrong here.
Happy Seasons Chinese Restaurant – Didsbury
Newly taken over, this Chinese restaurant in Didsbury uses fresh ingredients to bring you the most authentic taste of Chinese household cooking. The Head Chef has worked in high-end Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants, whilst the sous specialises in Dim Sum and previously worked in Chinatown.
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PLY- Manchester
Long-standing NQ piza favourite PLY is back on Deliveroo and we’re really happy about it. Cooked in the Neapolitan style, pizzas are served up alongside a regularly refreshed selection of craft beer, fine wine and twists on classic cocktails.
Image: PLY
WAWIN Vegan Chinese – City Centre
This all-vegan Chinese recreates all your takeaway favourites in plant-based form. Think salt and pepper dishes, chow mein, fried rice and more. WIth four sites across the north spread across Manchester, Leeds, York and Sheffield, you already know this is worth giving a try.
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Waffle Stop – Hulme
This new waffle and shake spot in Hulme has made headlines for its in-store Instagram traps, but there’s plenty more to say about it too. Opened by Shakedown, which already has two other restaurants in Withington and Wythenshawe, it is also known for its burgers as well as tasty loaded waffles and crazy milkshakes.
KANTINA by The Kitchen – Bolton
Contemporary Greek restaurant KANTINA on Market Street in Westhoughton is run by husband-and-wife team Oddyseas and Nikki. Founded in 2017, they’ve built up a loyal customer base locally and have now expanded into online delivery. Think rabbit tacos, grilled talagani, fresh octopus and more.
Burgerette – Manchester East
Selling a host of different burgers all made with the finest Angus Aberdeen beef, everything at Burgerette is made fresh to order daily. From buffalo chicken burgers to succulent mushrooms and stacked smashed patty tower ‘the Quattro’, there’s plenty to get your mouth watering here.
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Raja Bros – Mossley – Ashton under lyne
A family-owned business established in Mossley since 1979, Raja Bros is one of the area’s most trusted convenience stores. Selling a range of wines, spirits and beers, this off-license has just become even more convenient with the option to have their drinks delivered straight to your door.
Twinnies – Oldham
From spicy nachos to chicken wraps. paninis, omlettes, samosas and desserts, if you want it you’re likely to find it on the menu at Twinnies in Oldham. Halloumi sticks, jalapeno bites and mozzarella sticks are just a handful of items that take our fancy.
Image: Heavensteak
Heavensteak Manchester East
As the name suggests, steaks are a big focus on the menu at Heavensteak. However, they’re also minced down into homemade gourmet burgers. Choose from the wagyu burger, the 6oz steak burger, or the classic house steak frites. As for sides, think homemade chimichurri, red wine gravy and peppercorn sauce.
Spice Tower – Stockport
If you’re after a top-notch curry, the Indian restaurant Spice Tower in Stockport is a great new find. Celebrating the best of Indian cuisine in a traditional family atmosphere, the menu features a mix of classic favourites and more contemporary dishes from the sub-continent.
Image: Lo Scoglio
Lo Scoglio Restaurant City Centre
Italian lovers now have a new option on Deliveroo, courtesy of Deansgate restaurant Lo Scoglio. Loosely translated as ‘the rock’, The menu is huge, boasting a massive range of traditional pastas, pizzas, classic mains, desserts and more.
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Michigan Fried Chicken – Oldham
As you’d expect, the star of the show here is fried chicken – but it comes in many different forms. From burgers to wings, nuggets, chicken pieces and kebabs, you’ll find it all here.
Trattoria Alla Scala – Altrincham
A relatively new addition to Hale, Trattoria Alla Scala serves up a wide range of authentic Italian dishes ranging from anti pasti to calzones, fresh pasta and more. On Sundays, you can also get specials like veal steak, fillet steak and rosemary potatoes.
Image: Trattoria Alla Scalla
Seoul Chikin – Cheetham Hill
Inspired by the vibrant flavours of Seoul street food, Seoul Chikin mixes punchy Korean sauces with juicy triple-breaded chicken fillets – all cooked fresh for you the moment you click order.
Bun and Bones MCR
Burgers and wings are a must at Bun and Bones MCR, but there’s also some naughty dessert options like their Oreo and ‘special’ cheesecakes. Whether you’re after a ‘plain Jane’ burger or a Sloppy Joe feast, you can’t go wrong.
Mr Shawarma- Manchester
Found on Shudehill, this Manchester kebab spot specialises in shawarmas – as the name suggests. The popular Levantine Arab dish, consisting of meat cut into thin slices, stacked in a cone-like shape, and roasted on a slowly-turning vertical rotisserie or spit, is typpically made with lamb but you’ll also find chicken and donner options here.
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Kandy Baby – Oldham
From mixed sweetie packs to ultra indulgent milkshakes, Kandy Baby is the place to order from when you are in need of a sweet treat. The indulgent menu includes Reese’s, KitKat, Hershey’s, and Jolly Rancher milkshake options, plus calypsos, Jolly Rancher slushies and more.
Scóna Bakehouse – Saddleworth
Specialising in traditional Neapolitan pizza, this Saddleworth bakehouse is a welcome addition to the area – bringing its handmade, hand-stretched pizzas to the area alongside a small list of starters, beers, wines and soft drinks.
Image: Scona Bakehouse
Chaii Bhais – Oldham
Home of Karak Chaii and street food, Chaii Bhais is Oldham’s premier sppt for quality tea. Offering all-day Desi breakfasts, toasties, jack potatoes and pies, there’s quite a mix on the menu here with something to suit everyone.
HASH BURGERS – Salford
Don’t be fooled by the name, there are no hash browns to be found here. Instead, on the menu you’ll find a wide range of burgers, milkshakes, sides and waffles. Smashed pattys reign supreme, with chicken and beef options available as well as some fried chicken creations.
Smash ‘N’ Shake – Ashton under Lyne
More smash burgers, this time from Smash ‘N’ Shake in Ashton under Lyne. There are hash browns in these, though – or at leasrt in some of them. The Turkish Hash Supreme Burger features two signature smashed beef patties, two crispy hash browns and double turkey rashers, whilst the Dominion Supreme version switches these for four crispy onion rings.
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Imag: Bada Bing
Bada Bing – Media City UK
These two-fisted Sopranos-inspired hoagies are already legendary in Manchester, despite the fact that founders Meg and Sam have been running the business for less than a year. Stuffed to the brim with meats, cheeses, homemade pickles and sauces, no one can accuse them of being stingy with the fillings here. There’s also regularly changing specials, with an option for vegans and veggies always on the menu.
Frurt – St Peters Square.
With a choice of small, medium or large tubs, you can really design your own frozen yoghurt experience here at Frurt. Choose from flavours like yuzu, chocolate, cheesecake and mango, or treat yourself to a bubble tea or fruit parfait instead.
Image: Zaxxfried
ZAXXFRIED – Chorlton
Over at newcomer Zaxxfried in Chorlton, owner Mustafa has made quite a name for himself already. Having spent years working in his dad’s fried chicken shop, which has stood over in Liverpool for more than 30, he certainly knows his stuff. Using secret spice mixes and sauces that he won’t even reveal to his wife, it’s all taken very seriously.
Veganity – Plant Base Manchester East
For a guilt-free vegan cheat day, Veganity have you covered with their plant-powered burgers and fries. Using Beyond Meat patties, the team has created a selection of different vegan burgers – all served on artisan brioche buns.
Food & Drink
The best graduation deals and freebies in Manchester this celebration season
Danny Jones
To all those completing their university degrees this year, first off: congratulations – and second of all, we’re sure you’re looking forward to making the most of all those graduation deals, offers and free stuff you can grab in Manchester this year.
We know we were when it was our time (longer ago than we’d like to admit…)
The post-graduation ceremony meal – hopefully at least one final meal your parents are happy to cover the bill for before sending you out into ‘the big wide world’ – is a truly special one, but there’s no reason you shouldn’t still look for savings where you can.
So, without further ado, here’s a list of graduate deals and freebies available in central Manchester for the class of 2026.
15 of the best offers and free things for 2026 graduates
1. Fenix – St. John’s
What is it: One of the best restaurants in Manchester, serving up plates featuring plenty of Greek heritage as well as modern-Mediterranean, elevated cuisine from one of the city centre’s fastest-growing neighbourhoods.
The offer: Special lunch menu noon until 3:45pm set at just £37.50 or sit down for dinner from £45.50; both include a complimentary glass of Prosecco, and you can even walk away with an engraved bottle of Champagne to take home with you. Available 1 July until 1 August – reserve your table while you can.
2. The Alchemist – Central, Spinningfields and Salford Quays
What is it: Manc-born mixologists and cocktail bar chain which started in Spinningfields, before opening on New York Street and beyond and going on to be a staple of the UK hospitality scene.
The offer: A complimentary ‘Cosmic Oyster’ for everyone around your table when booking ahead – you can do so HERE.
What is it: Stylish London-centric seafood and grill with Japanese and Robata-inspired cuisine, best-known for sushi, steak and their famous caramelised black cod dish.
The offer: Extensive sharing-style menu priced at £55 a head, including all the highlights and a gratis glass of Henriot Champagne for every guest, available until 24 July; you can reserve your spot now.
What is it: A canalside cornerstone of the Castlefield community, with a large outdoor terrace and beer garden, complete with a dedicated cocktail hut on busy sunny days, and two cosy floors inside.
The offer: Graduation set menu, with options for two or three courses and a glass of fizz on them, running from 6-31 July. Find out more.
What is it: Boutique city centre hotel just off Market Street offering numerous luxuries, including afternoon tea packages, set menus and more from the in-house restaurant, tender by award-winning chef Niall Keating, as well as various high-end rooms.
The offer: Free glass of cava with bookings, simple as that; available all throughout July and August.
What is it: Stunning, homely gastropub and bistro with multiple rooms across two floors, as well as a large terrace with various open-air and covered areas.
The offer: Happy hour drinks for your entire party and the chance to be the one lucky winner who’ll have the ENTIRE overdraft paid off in full by the team as part of a prize draw. Book and find the full terms and conditions right HERE.
Credit: The Manc
7. Piccolino – Central, Didsbury, Bramhall, Hale, Wilmslow and Knutsford
What is it: Popular British chain of Italian restaurants operated by the Individual Restaurants Group (IRG), with numerous locations across the country.
The offer: Graduates get a complimentary glass of champagne alongside their classic recipe tiramisu on the house. Booking in advance is advised.
What is it: Another one of the IRG brands, offering similar Italian cuisine as well as great deals and an expanded drinks menu.
The offer: Freshly crowned graduates dining from the special set menu can enjoy a bonus Bellini to toast their success.
Credit: The Manc
9. The Lowry – Salford
What is it: One of Greater Manchester’s most famous hotels, located right on the edge of the city centre, with a highly-rated bar and restaurant to boot. Needs no introduction really.
The offer: Those staying in town for their ceremony can enjoy a luxurious stay with 10% off the best available rate, plus 15% off food and drink, a complimentary bottle of Champagne, AND 50% off a second room for family members, too. A perfect package for out-of-towners – you can book HERE.
What is it: One of the best curry houses in all the region, specialising in contemporary Indian food and Pakistani flavours, too.
The offer: Their popular annual graduation deal is back for 2026, with the customary welcome drink making a return alongside a signature pudding to finish off; make sure to write ‘graduation’ and add ‘dessert’ in the booking notes. They’re also right near the main uni stretch, which is always handy.
What is it: ‘Feast of the Wise’ graduation menus are available from £37.50 for lunch and £45.50 for dinner, both including a complimentary glass of Prosecco
The offer: ‘Power of Wisdom’ set menu – £37.50 for lunch and £45.50 for dinner – with graduates receiving an ‘Elixir of Life cocktail’, or a complimentary glass of Prosecco.
Credit: The Manc
12. Browns – Central
What is it: A mainstay of the King Street strip, just around the corner from Cibo and The Rex hotel (another good option for those stopping over), specialising in British and European brasserie classics.
The offer: Receive a complimentary glass of Browns’ very own Champagne for the graduate and every accompanying guest, with two courses for £29 or a trio for just £36. You can book HERE.
What is it: Authentic Lebanese cuisine in a classy city centre setting, with covered outdoor seating and some great vegan options, too.
The offer: Graduates and guests can enjoy a 25% student discount, a wrap and fries offer for £10.95, or mark the occasion with a full ‘Graduation Feast’ for £32.50, including a free glass of Prosecco or a non-alcoholic alternative. *This offer cannot be used alongside other offers, however.
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Credit: The Manc
14. Chotto Matte – St. Michael’s
What is it: A sky-high rooftop food and drink spot where Japan and Peru meet in an incredible fusion that makes for a fantastic culinary experience.
The offer: ‘Nikkei’ dining experience throughout July, with a curated sharing menu (£40pp/£35 for vegetarians) and a complimentary glass of Pommery Champagne for the graduates.
What is it: The Yorkshire-born brand now serving up us locals from their New York St site and arguably one of the best places for a posh tea or meal out no matter the occasion, with top-quality steak, seafood, bubbles and more.
The offer: Three courses with a glass of Prosecco on arrival for £55; you can even upgrade to the proper stuff – pay an extra tenner for Moët & Chandon Champagne for each person.
Manchester’s free summer picnic is coming back to Oxford Road
Danny Jones
Manchester’s free ‘Summer in the City Picnic’ is returning to the Oxford Road Corridor later this year, promising plenty of live music and entertainment, family-friendly fun, outdoor activities and lots more.
Coming back to Circle Square for the second time, the now annual and completely free city centre festival will set up for its sophomore edition right on Symphony Park.
Surrounded by numerous local businesses located within the thriving Bruntwood SciTech and Vita Group neighbourhood, this mini-district is once again set to draw in crowds from all over Manchester.
With that in mind, get your coolers, picnic baskets and blankets ready: it’s time for some alfresco fanfare.
Kicking off next month for one day only, Circle Square‘s ‘Summer in the City Picnic’ 2.0 will get underway pretty much from the outset, with the organisers promising a full day of festivities.
Visitors can look forward to an even more jam-packed schedule than last year, with creative workshops and interactive experiences, DJs right through to the evening, alongside roaming steel drum performances and even silent disco adventures, just to name a few.
Other events include: sip and paint sessions, pop-up mini golf and basketball shoot-outs; ‘foot pool’, a seasonal bouquet bar, as well as a dedicated picnic space for dogs, complete with bespoke pup portraits. Adorable.
2025 saw plenty of furry friends steal the show and become local celebrities for the day, and we’re sure ’26 will be no different.
The long picnic tables will once again take centre stage, creating a relaxed space for families and friends to come together over great food from Circle Square’s wide mix of indie restaurants and cafes, such as Gooey, Onda, Hello Oriental, Half Dozen Other, Saffa Soul, North Bar, Monkey Trio and more.
Punters are, obviously, to bring along their own picnic bits, packed lunches and favourite scran, but it’s nice to have the option of treating yourself to stuff on-site.
Better still, Circle Square’s proximity not only to Oxford Road train station, but the St Peter’s Square tram stop and various bus routes (even Piccadilly isn’t really that far) means that this is super accessible for anyone interested – not to mention that it’s completely free and open to all members of the public.
Taking place on Saturday, 8 August, we hope to see you there and hopefully with the sun shining.
Georgina Pellant -
22nd October 2021 
