Restaurant · Manchester
Tucked inside the Edwardian Hotel, this is a Japanese-Mexican small-plates spot that works better for a family meal than the address suggests — buggy access, high chairs and a kids' menu are all there, and the vegan and gluten-free menus are proper separate lists, not an afterthought. Staff greet people warmly and are quick to make recommendations, and food generally arrives fast, though drinks can lag well behind it. The roasted aubergine, duck salad and edamame get the most love; portions are small and the bill adds up. Two honest snags: the music and DJ get genuinely loud at weekends, so evenings feel more nightclub than family dinner, and the toilets are a walk away inside the hotel. Come at lunch, ask for a bigger table so the sharing plates fit, and it's a lovely one.
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.
Fast, blistered Neapolitan pizza with a heated terrace, huge shareable garlic bread and staff who take toddlers in their stride — book ahead.
A proper chophouse roast — beef, lamb and pork with bottomless gravy — with a kids' menu and high chairs, though it gets loud and busy.
Huge Bavarian portions, kids' menu and high chairs in a lively, loud beer-hall room — book ahead and expect two-hour tables.