Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
A cornerstone of Manchester's dining scene for nearly five decades, Armenian Taverna & Restaurant occupies a bright, modern ground-floor space on Princess Street, showcasing authentic Armenian cuisine prepared by Head Chef Yianni Pelekanos. The menu features traditional dishes including chargrilled khorovadz (lamb kebabs), khachapuri (cheese-filled flatbread), and house-made lavash, complemented by an extensive selection of Armenian and Georgian wines. The restaurant's sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere, elegant chandelier, and attentive service create an intimate dining experience that celebrates centuries-old culinary traditions.
A brief summary to Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
- 3-5 Princess St, Manchester, M2 4DF, GB
- +441618349025
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 12 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-11 pm
- Friday 12 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Order lavash (traditional flatbread) separately if sharing dishes—the complimentary portions may be insufficient for groups. The house-made version is exceptional and worth experiencing.
- Explore the Armenian and Georgian wine list by the glass to discover lesser-known varietals that pair beautifully with the bold, spiced dishes. Ask staff for recommendations based on your main course.
- Reserve ahead, particularly for weekends and evenings, as this popular restaurant fills quickly. The separate bar area offers a comfortable waiting space if needed.
- Leave room for dessert—the pakhlava and honey cake are traditional Armenian sweets worth savouring, accompanied by proper Armenian coffee or herbal tea with thyme.
- The menu is extensive; don't feel pressured to order quickly. Take time to explore both vegetarian and meat sections, and ask staff about seasonal specials or chef's recommendations.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
A Legacy of Armenian Hospitality in Manchester's Heart
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant stands as one of Manchester's most enduring culinary institutions, having welcomed guests for nearly five decades. Recently relocated from its historic basement setting beneath Albert Square to a bright, modern ground-floor space, the restaurant has undergone a thoughtful transformation while maintaining its soul. The new venue features an impressive chandelier, contemporary design elements, and large windows that flood the dining area with natural light—a dramatic shift from its cave-like predecessor. Despite this modernization, the restaurant retains its homely charm through vintage touches: framed artworks, photographs of celebrated visitors, and satiny patterned tablecloths that evoke the elegance of a refined family home.Culinary Mastery and Traditional Techniques
Head Chef Yianni Pelekanos brings over two decades of international cooking experience, having previously worked in the USA and Canada. His approach to Armenian cuisine emphasizes seasonal ingredients, locally sourced produce, and traditional preparation methods that demand meticulous attention to detail. The kitchen employs time-honoured techniques including whipping, stuffing, puréeing, and the careful layering of spices and fresh herbs. Armenians have long celebrated dishes cooked over open flames—meat, fish, and vegetables charred to perfection—and this philosophy permeates the menu. The chef personally bakes lavash, the traditional unleavened flatbread that accompanies nearly every meal, ensuring authenticity in every bite.A Menu Spanning Armenian and Caucasian Traditions
The extensive menu navigates both vegetarian and meat-focused sections, offering dishes that span Armenian heritage and neighbouring Georgian cuisine. Signature specialities include the Yerevan khachapuri—a hot-from-the-oven flatbread lavished with cheese and studded with air-dried beef—and khorovadz, chargrilled lamb kebabs that exemplify the restaurant's mastery of fire-cooked meats. Beyond these classics, diners encounter borscht, pickled herrings, baba ganoush, and Georgian khinkali (soup dumplings). The wine list deserves particular attention, featuring Armenian and Georgian selections available by the glass, allowing exploration of lesser-known varietals that complement the bold, layered flavours of the cuisine. Desserts showcase traditional Armenian sweets: pakhlava infused with cinnamon and honey cake, served alongside proper Armenian coffee and herbal tea steeped with thyme.Atmosphere and Service Philosophy
The restaurant's atmosphere balances sophistication with accessibility. The modern ground-floor setting, with its elegant chandelier and contemporary furnishings, creates an upscale yet unpretentious environment. Staff demonstrate old-school efficiency and genuine attentiveness, ensuring that each guest feels welcomed and cared for. The separate bar area adds versatility for pre-dinner drinks or evening socializing. This combination of refined service, thoughtful design, and authentic hospitality has earned the restaurant a loyal following among couples, families, and solo diners alike.A Unique Culinary Destination in Manchester
Armenian Taverna remains the only establishment in Manchester dedicated exclusively to Armenian cuisine, making it an essential destination for those seeking authentic Near Eastern flavours and culinary traditions rarely encountered in Britain. The restaurant's longevity and recent modernization reflect its importance to the city's food culture—a place where generations of diners have discovered the warmth, complexity, and generosity of Armenian hospitality. Whether experiencing Armenian food for the first time or returning as a devoted regular, visitors encounter not merely a meal but a cultural journey.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Bright Statue
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Albert Memorial
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Dalton Entry
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Mulberry Passage
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Manchester City Council
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Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
St. Peter's Square
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Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Free Trade Hall
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Connaught Building
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Arch of Chinatown
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The Undamaged Red Post Box
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Peterloo Massacre Monument
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Canada House, Manchester
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Historic England
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Statue of the Duke of Wellington
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Breakout Manchester Church Street
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Unmissable attractions to see
Albert Square
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Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Manchester Albert Square
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St Mary's RC Church
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Abraham Lincoln Statue
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Manchester Cenotaph
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Saint Ann's Church
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Manchester Central Library
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DNA VR Manchester
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St Anns Square
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John Rylands Research Institute and Library
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Emmeline Pankhurst Statue
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Manchester Art Gallery
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House of Fraser
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The Portico Library
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Albert Hall, Manchester
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Essential places to dine
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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T.La Art & Craft Gallery
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Rams Gift World
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Menkind
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Stare Society
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
