In a city that makes no secret of its world-changing industrial heritage, nor its modern-day evolution into one of the UK’s most exciting foodie destinations, you might struggle to find a more appropriately named, or flavour-filled establishment than The Pasta Factory. Occupying an historic building which dates back to 1873, first opening to house a bank and remaining occupied by the financial sector until 1980, the address itself is a prime example of the Victorian-era architectural flair our hometown has long-been renowned for, while the contemporary restaurant in the Northern Quarter that now calls this spot HQ boasts a menu that’s every bit as impressive.
Using only the freshest, all-natural ingredients, the focus at The Pasta Factory is on creating Italian-style ‘piatto di pasta’ in the heart of the northern powerhouse, with the business proudly selling itself on offering hand-crafted pasta “made in Manchester, by Italians”, with every strand of spaghetti and ball of gnocchi rolled out by the talented team from scratch each morning. Not just a space for dining, monthly masterclasses teach customers the art of pasta making, with complimentary food and prosecco, branded aprons and totes included in the price. Meanwhile, those looking to simply take produce from the professionals away with them can also find a large cook at home range available, all of which has been created using the traditional slow drying method, resulting in the finest dried pasta varieties imaginable. The weekly Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday aperitivo offering – comprising two spritz and the best of the deli counter – is also well worth noting, and heading down for.