Italian · Manchester
Big, buzzy Italian in the city centre that manages to work for a family meal without feeling like you've brought children somewhere you shouldn't. There's a kids' menu, high chairs and room to get a pram in, and the staff are the part people rave about most — attentive, happy to seat you early at the bar if you're ahead of your booking, and quick to make a fuss of birthdays with a surprise dessert. Food-wise, the carbonara, lasagne and the slow-cooked beef fritto come up again and again, and the burger has its own following. Portions and prices sit comfortably in the middle. Worth booking, and worth knowing it's a dim-lit, grown-up sort of room — lovely in the evening, though the kitchen has the occasional off night.
A little something creative for your next meal out. Filled with colouring, simple drawing prompts for cute animals, origami and conversation starters designed to bring more play, laughter and connection to the table. 3 free printable packs for toddlers, preschoolers and primary-aged children.
A relaxed Manchester coffee shop with high chairs and vegan options, handy for a low-key stop with the kids.
Pub in Manchester with outdoor seating — 4.5★ (2,332 Google reviews).
A buzzy Manchester shuffleboard bar with a 4.7 rating, good for a casual mid-range outing with older kids and teens.