We explore some of the best new places to be seen in Manchester.
Kontrast | City Centre | Open now
A new sauna and ice bath café that offers people an alternative way to unwind, connect, and rejuvenate has opened just a short walk away from Victoria train station. Inspired by the success of similar concepts in Scandinavia and Asia, Kontrast has been designed as a community hub to bring people together through contrast therapy. This therapy is a wellness practice that involves alternating between hot and cold treatments to stimulate circulation, spike energy levels, reduce inflammation, deepen sleep, and boost overall mental and physical health. Kontrast also offers a curated menu of healthy snacks, juices, teas, and speciality coffee from Blossom Coffee.
Museum of Illusions | City Centre Open now
Market Street is now home to the Museum of Illusions, the first of the global phenomenon to open in the UK. It promises a captivating experience for visitors of all ages who can be immersed in a world of optical illusions and interactive exhibits that are designed to challenge perception, spark curiosity, and stimulate the imagination. The museum will include the most popular exhibitions from other locations around the globe, as well as some Manchester inspired exhibits, and some never-before-seen installations that will make their world debut.
Angie’s Taste of Jamacia | Shaw Open now
Angie’s Taste of Jamacia is bringing Caribbean flavours to Shaw with the opening of its new takeaway in the former Masterchef Indian site. In a first for the area, expect lots of tasty treats with all the classic Jamaican flavours including boneless jerk chicken thighs, curry goat, and oxtail accompanied by a wide range of sides such as mac and cheese, fried plantain, and rice and peas.
Rudy’s | Prestwich | December
Manchester-based Rudy’s is expanding its empire to Prestwich in December. The fan favourite will be the first of the chain in North Manchester and will be based on Bury New Road. Expect the fresh Neapolitan pizza that Rudy’s is famous for, along with a well- stocked bar that honours its roots, serving Italian spritzes, Italian lager, and classic cocktails. Upgrade a standard margherita with the addition of bufala mozzarella or go for something a bit different with one of Rudy’s white pizzas. The portobello white is a great choice where you’ll get a delicious mix of fior de latte, portobello, mushroom, basil, oregano, sea salt, grana padano, and garlic oil.
Pip | City Centre | Autumn 2024
Finding a home in the hotly anticipated Treehouse Hotel, Pip will be its on-site restaurant and open
at the same time as the hotel. Diners can expect a menu curated by Manchester chef Mary-Ellen McTague and her team who will reimagine local culinary heritage through seasonal, low waste menus prepared using produce from the North West. Diners will be able to grab breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as a convenient grab-and-go lunch option for busy city folk. There’ll also be hyper seasonal cocktails that will be created in synergy with the kitchen to use ingredients to complement the food, served alongside a low intervention wine offering.
On Instagram @Pip.mcr
Simmons | Deansgate | Open now
Simmons Bars is a vibrant and quirky chain of cocktail bars spread across London that’s breaking into the north and taking over the former Botanist site on Deansgate. Simmons is known for its eclectic décor, fun atmosphere, and affordable drinks deals. There’s a unique blend of nostalgic charm and lively nightlife with a playful vibe, retro gaming consoles, and neon-lit interiors.