It's hardly surprising that the culturally diverse environs of suburban Manchester and beyond provide rich pickings when it comes to thriving neighbourhood eateries, and we were spoilt for choice when singling out the main contenders. Among our favourites are Lily’s Indian Vegetarian Cuisine, a stalwart of Ashton-under-Lyne, and The Pearl in Prestwich – where chef Iain Mark Thomas delivers consistently polished, seasonal food. However, our top gong in the region goes to Cibus in Levenshulme – a hugely popular neighbourhood Italian with a fiercely loyal following. Locals confirm that it serves the community admirably and has transformed the food scene hereabouts. Further afield in old Lancashire, we were thrilled to discover  sé Anār, a highly idiosyncratic Indian restaurant, run by ex-teacher Renuka Morris and located a few blocks from Blackpool’s kiss-me-quick Pleasure Beach. It’s exactly the kind of community-focused eatery that typifies our Best Local Restaurants.
Best Local Restaurant: North West
Cibus
Levenshulme, Greater Manchester
At first glance, Cibus might look like a conventional pizza and pasta joint but there are daily and seasonal menu changes, intriguing regional dishes from North to South of the peninsula, and a standard of cooking, sourcing and service that would shame many a fancier joint. Whether you’re a regular or first-timer, you're made to feel like an old friend. It has transformed the food scene in Levenshulme and is the type of place we all wished we had on our doorstep.
A Good Food Guide reader said:
'Amazing food and exceptional service make this restaurant a true gem. It serves the local community well and has transformed the food scene in Levenshulme.'
Owners Giorgio Fontana and Marco Bracchitta said of the award:
'We are thrilled and humbled by the news that Cibus has been voted the Best Local Restaurant in the North West! It is a huge honour, and we are overwhelmed with joy. Thank you to all of our supporters. We feel loved and embraced by the community around us, and we reciprocate that with our love and passion in what we do here at Cibus. This recognition is a massive burst of morale for the Cibus team. We are like family, and we work hard together to provide a great experience for our guests. Our hard work has paid off.'
Read the Cibus Good Food Guide review
Best Local Restaurants in North West England 2024
Congratulations to all the restaurants in the North West that have made it onto our list of Britain's 100 Best Local Restaurants 2024. Explore the tiles below to discover who made the list and to read their full reviews in The Good Food Guide.
