Mr. Thomas’s Chop House, established in 1867, is considered one of the oldest and most iconic traditional restaurants in Manchester. Located in the city center, it is famous for its Victorian architecture and classic British dishes like corned beef hash and steak and kidney pudding.
The oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness World Records and other sources, is Sobrino de Botín (often just called Botín) in Madrid, Spain, established in 1725 and known for its historic wood-fired oven and traditional Spanish cuisine like roast suckling pig, famous for dishes like roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado). However, some sources point to St. Peter Stiftskulinarium in Salzburg, Austria, as the oldest in terms of historical origin (founded 803 AD) but with less continuous operation as a restaurant compared to Botín.
The Channel 4 show First Dates filmed in Manchester at The Refinery in Spinningfields, but it permanently closed in 2021; the show then moved filming to The Anthologist (also a Drake & Morgan venue) for later Manchester series, but the First Dates format has since moved to The Botanist in Bath for newer seasons. While you can't visit The Refinery, you might still be able to dine at The Anthologist for a taste of the Manchester filming vibe, though the show itself is now in Bath.
How much does it cost to eat at the First Dates restaurant?
Eating at the First Dates restaurant (Paternoster Chop House in London or The Refinery in Manchester) isn't free; contestants get £25 towards their meal, but pay the rest themselves, so costs vary from around £20-£30 for a basic meal in Manchester to £50-£100+ for a full three-course dinner with drinks in London, depending on choices like steaks or cocktails.
The Oldest Curry House on Manchester's Famous Curry Mile
What was Blues Kitchen Manchester before?
Taking over the former Walkabout site on Quay Street, near Spinningfields, the venue offers a little something that Manchester was sorely missing: a taste of the Deep South.
Sobrino de Botín, located in Madrid, Spain, holds the title of the world's oldest restaurant, with continuous operation since 1725. Known for its traditional Spanish cuisine, particularly the famous roast suckling pig, Botín has preserved its historic charm and culinary heritage for nearly 300 years.
To answer a common question: McDonald's (1940) is older than Burger King (1954) by 14 years, though both were preceded by White Castle (1921) and A&W (1919).
Rough areas in Manchester often cited for higher crime, anti-social behavior, and deprivation include Moss Side, Longsight, Cheetham Hill, Harpurhey, Salford (particularly Broughton/Langworthy), Wythenshawe, Blackley, and Beswick, with issues ranging from drug offenses and gang violence to theft and burglary, though many areas like Ancoats are undergoing regeneration. Safety can vary street by street, but these areas generally see more reported issues.
Deansgate is one of the city's oldest thoroughfares. In Roman times its route passed close to the Roman fort of Mamucium and led from the River Medlock where there was a ford and the road to Deva (Chester). Along it were several civilian buildings and a mansio in the vicinity of the Hilton Hotel.
The oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness World Records and other sources, is Sobrino de Botín (often just called Botín) in Madrid, Spain, established in 1725 and known for its historic wood-fired oven and traditional Spanish cuisine like roast suckling pig, famous for dishes like roast suckling pig (cochinillo asado). However, some sources point to St. Peter Stiftskulinarium in Salzburg, Austria, as the oldest in terms of historical origin (founded 803 AD) but with less continuous operation as a restaurant compared to Botín.
Be sure to book far in advance for guaranteed seats! We tried booking 2 months ahead but they were out of spots already. Luckily we waited in line about 15 minutes before they opened for lunch and got a seat. It is a slightly higher end restaurant.
What restaurant is making a comeback after 20 years?
More than two decades after closing its last restaurant, Chi-Chi's is reopening. The Tex-Mex restaurant chain known for its fried ice cream, cheap drinks, and fun-yet-casual atmosphere was founded in Minnesota in 1975, and in its heyday, had more than 200 locations across the U.S.
The Ritz London has been named the Best Restaurant in the UK 2025 at this year's National Restaurant Awards, held at The Magazine London. Spearheaded by veteran chef John Williams MBE, the restaurant has climbed to the top of the prestigious list having been a regular feature in its ranks for many years.
What is the oldest restaurant still open in the world?
Sobrino de Botín, located in Madrid, Spain, holds the title of the world's oldest restaurant, with continuous operation since 1725. Known for its traditional Spanish cuisine, particularly the famous roast suckling pig, Botín has preserved its historic charm and culinary heritage for nearly 300 years.
