Browns Brasserie & Bar, Manchester
Victorian elegance meets contemporary British cuisine in Manchester's most distinguished brasserie.
Located in a beautifully restored Victorian building on York Street, Browns Brasserie & Bar is Manchester's premier destination for classic British cuisine and sophisticated dining. The ornate interior features mahogany paneling, marble accents, and stained glass, creating an elegant atmosphere perfect for special occasions or business meals. Known for its attentive service, impressive cocktail and wine selection, and a menu showcasing quality steaks, seafood, and traditional British fare, Browns attracts both locals and visitors seeking an upscale dining experience in the heart of Manchester city centre.
A brief summary to Browns Manchester
- 1 York St, Manchester, Greater, Manchester, M2 2AW, GB
- +441618191055
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-11 pm
- Thursday 10 am-11 pm
- Friday 10 am-12 am
- Saturday 10 am-12 am
- Sunday 10 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance, especially for weekends and special occasions. The restaurant fills quickly due to its popularity and limited table capacity.
- Visit during lunch hours for better value and a less crowded experience while still enjoying the full menu and architectural splendor.
- The cocktail and wine selections are exceptional—allow time to explore the bar menu before or after your meal.
- Request a table with a view of the main dining room to fully appreciate the Victorian architecture and bustling atmosphere.
- Check for live piano performances when booking, as these add significantly to the evening's ambience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Browns Manchester location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Browns Manchester
A Victorian Gem in Manchester's Heart
Browns Brasserie & Bar occupies one of Manchester's most architecturally distinguished buildings, a beautifully preserved Victorian structure on York Street in the city centre. The restaurant's interior is a sumptuous showcase of period elegance, featuring rich mahogany woodwork, polished marble surfaces, ornate brass fixtures, and intricate stained glass that evokes the grandeur of early 20th-century brasserie culture. Walking through the doors transports you into a world of refined sophistication, where every architectural detail speaks to careful restoration and attention to heritage.Culinary Focus and Menu Offerings
The kitchen at Browns specializes in contemporary British cuisine with European influences, drawing particular strength from its selection of premium steaks and fresh seafood. The menu features classic brasserie fare including chateaubriand, fish and chips, scallops, and traditional Sunday roasts, alongside seasonal specials and a carefully curated selection of lighter options. The wine list is notably comprehensive, and the bar program showcases an impressive array of cocktails, making Browns as much a destination for drinks as for dining. Afternoon tea service is also available, capitalizing on the elegant surroundings.The Service Experience
Staff at Browns are trained to deliver attentive, professional service in the classic brasserie tradition. The team demonstrates strong product knowledge regarding both food and beverage offerings, and regulars often praise the warmth and genuine hospitality extended to returning guests. The restaurant maintains a lively atmosphere while preserving the sense of occasion that draws diners seeking a special experience. Live piano entertainment occasionally enhances the ambience, adding to the sophisticated dining environment.Atmosphere and Social Setting
Browns functions as both a destination restaurant and a sophisticated social hub. The dining room accommodates groups and couples alike, with table arrangements that balance intimacy with the energy of a busy brasserie. The bar area serves as a popular pre-dinner and post-theatre gathering spot, particularly given the restaurant's proximity to Manchester's cultural venues. The combination of architectural grandeur, attentive service, and quality offerings creates an environment suitable for celebrations, business entertaining, and special occasions.Location and Accessibility
Situated at 1 York Street in Manchester's city centre, Browns benefits from excellent positioning within the commercial and cultural heart of the city. The location places it within walking distance of major attractions, shopping districts, and cultural institutions. The building's central position makes it easily accessible by public transport and convenient for those navigating the city on foot. The restaurant's prominence as a landmark venue means it is well-known to both locals and visitors seeking upscale dining in Manchester.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
John Bright Statue
0.3 km
A marble tribute in Albert Square honoring John Bright’s legacy as a champion of free trade and social reform in Victorian Manchester.
Manchester City Council
0.3 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.3 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Albert Memorial
0.3 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Connaught Building
0.3 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
Dalton Entry
0.3 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Mulberry Passage
0.3 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
Arch of Chinatown
0.3 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
St. Peter's Square
0.3 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.4 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Free Trade Hall
0.5 km
Historic landmark on the Peterloo Massacre site, blending Victorian architecture with a rich legacy of music and political activism.
Robert Owen Statue
0.6 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
Peterloo Massacre Monument
0.6 km
A powerful stone memorial in Manchester honoring the victims of the 1819 Peterloo Massacre and the fight for democracy.
Canada House, Manchester
0.6 km
Discover Canada House, a majestic Grade II listed cotton warehouse in Manchester, embodying the city’s rich industrial heritage and architectural splendor.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
0.6 km
Step inside a historic Victorian police station and magistrates court to explore Greater Manchester’s rich policing history and archives.
Unmissable attractions to see
Market St
0.2 km
Manchester’s bustling pedestrian retail street linking major stations with iconic shops and vibrant city life.
The Portico Library
0.2 km
Discover Manchester’s historic Portico Library, a Greek Revival architectural gem and vibrant cultural hub since 1806.
City Tower, Manchester
0.2 km
Manchester’s iconic 30-storey skyscraper offering premium office spaces and panoramic city views in the heart of the vibrant city centre.
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
0.2 km
Manchester’s largest indoor shopping centre, with over 200 stores, restaurants, and leisure options in the heart of the city.
Manchester Art Gallery
0.3 km
Explore centuries of art and design in Manchester’s historic and dynamic city-centre gallery with free entry and family-friendly spaces.
Chinatown
0.3 km
Discover Manchester Chinatown’s vibrant streets filled with authentic Asian cuisine, rich culture, and festive charm in the city’s heart.
Manchester Cenotaph
0.3 km
Explore the Manchester Cenotaph, a historical landmark honoring the brave souls of the armed forces in the heart of Manchester.
St Anns Square
0.3 km
Historic heart of Manchester blending 18th-century charm, architectural heritage, and vibrant retail life in an elegant urban square.
Saint Ann's Church
0.3 km
Discover St Ann's Church, Manchester’s neo-classical gem and historic city centre landmark, blending 18th-century elegance with vibrant cultural heritage.
Piccadilly Gardens
0.3 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
2 Albert Square
0.3 km
Historic Albert Square in Manchester showcases Victorian Gothic grandeur with its iconic Town Hall and Prince Albert Memorial.
Albert Square
0.3 km
Manchester’s grand civic heart, framed by Gothic spires and alive with markets, monuments, and city life.
Manchester Albert Square
0.3 km
Discover Manchester Albert Square, a stunning Victorian civic space where history, architecture, and vibrant culture converge in the city’s heart.
St Mary's RC Church
0.3 km
Discover St Mary's RC Church, Manchester's historic 'Hidden Gem' blending Victorian artistry and deep Catholic heritage since 1794.
Barton Arcade
0.4 km
Step into Barton Arcade, a Victorian marvel of glass and iron, where historic elegance meets boutique shopping in the heart of Manchester.
Essential places to dine
Browns Manchester
0.0 km
Victorian elegance meets contemporary British cuisine in Manchester's most distinguished brasserie.
Grand Pacific
0.0 km
Experience Manchester’s gothic-inspired Pan-Asian cocktail bar with stunning décor, lively atmosphere, and expertly crafted drinks in the city center.
Sam's Chop House
0.1 km
Experience traditional British chophouse dining with locally sourced ingredients in Manchester’s cozy, historic atmosphere.
Kala
0.2 km
Modern European bistro blending classic and contemporary flavours in Manchester’s vibrant King Street district.
Miller & Carter Manchester
0.2 km
Classic British steakhouse on Manchester’s King Street, serving expertly aged premium steaks in a warm, elegant setting with attentive service.
10 Tib Lane
0.2 km
A refined French-inspired restaurant and cocktail bar in Manchester’s historic core, blending seasonal small plates with natural wines and crafted cocktails.
MR THOMAS'S CHOP HOUSE
0.2 km
Historic Manchester chophouse serving hearty British classics in a warm, inviting setting since 1867.
Armenian Taverna & Restaurant
0.2 km
Manchester's authentic Armenian culinary institution, recently modernized yet rooted in five decades of tradition.
Namii Kitchen & Cocktails
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese and pan-Asian flavors with creative cocktails in Manchester’s lively city centre.
Annies
0.3 km
Experience hearty British classics and warm hospitality in the stylish, cozy setting of Annie's on Old Bank Street, Manchester.
Higher Ground
0.3 km
A vibrant Manchester bistro blending seasonal British produce with sustainable ethos and refined, shareable dishes in a modern, welcoming setting.
El Gato Negro Tapas Manchester
0.3 km
Stylish Spanish tapas in a historic Manchester townhouse with a vibrant bar, open kitchen dining, and a stunning rooftop terrace.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Pieminister Manchester
0.4 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.4 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Menkind
0.2 km
Discover quirky gadgets and unique gifts at Menkind, Manchester Arndale’s vibrant destination for fun and innovative presents.
Søstrene Grene
0.2 km
Discover Danish-inspired creativity and cozy home treasures in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.3 km
Discover playful Danish design and quirky everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant Market Street.
Rams Gift World
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Rams Gift World, Manchester’s vibrant and eclectic souvenir shop on Market Street.
Amazonas Gifts
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
Pulse
0.3 km
Discover unique local treasures and artistic gifts in the heart of Manchester’s historic St Anne’s Square at Pulse.
T.La Art & Craft Gallery
0.3 km
A vibrant Chinese art and craft gallery in Manchester’s Chinatown, showcasing handcrafted treasures and cultural heritage in a warm, welcoming space.
Manchester Souvenirs & Convenience Store
0.3 km
Discover authentic Manchester souvenirs and essentials in the heart of the city, blending culture, convenience, and community spirit.
The Manchester Shop
0.4 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Stare Society
0.4 km
Discover curated vintage clothing and unique home furniture in Manchester’s stylish Stare Society boutique.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.4 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Hoot
0.4 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Manchester Souvenirs Gifts & Presents Geek Elf Elux Bars Luggage storage locker
0.4 km
Authentic Manchester souvenirs and gifts with local charm, plus convenient luggage storage in the heart of Deansgate.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.4 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
All Bar One Manchester
0.1 km
Stylish wine bar on Manchester’s King Street offering Mediterranean-inspired dishes and a lively, modern atmosphere for casual dining and drinks.
The Alchemist New York Street
0.2 km
A captivating cocktail theatre and dining experience blending molecular mixology with global cuisine in Manchester’s vibrant city centre.
Corbieres Bar
0.2 km
Discover Corbieres Bar, Manchester’s cozy underground spot famed for its eclectic jukebox, vegan-friendly pizzas, and welcoming vibe.
Salt Dog Slim's Manchester
0.2 km
Dive into Salt Dog Slim's Manchester for bold cocktails, American-style hot dogs, and a vibrant nightlife experience in the heart of the city.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
0.4 km
Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Slug & Lettuce - Albert Square Manchester
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Manchester’s Albert Square, perfect for lively brunches, evening drinks, and social celebrations.
Arcane
0.4 km
Discover Arcane, a cozy Victorian-inspired cocktail bar in Manchester’s city centre, blending inventive drinks with a relaxed, intimate atmosphere.
Be At One - Manchester
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar on Deansgate with 100+ drinks, private hire rooms, and unbeatable happy hour deals in the heart of Manchester nightlife.
The Washhouse
0.4 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
The Old Wellington
0.4 km
Step into The Old Wellington, a historic Manchester pub blending centuries-old charm with hearty ales and classic British fare in the city centre.
The Daisy
0.4 km
Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Wolf at the Door
0.4 km
A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
Night & Day Cafe
0.5 km
Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
Speak In Code
0.5 km
Discover Speak In Code, Manchester’s innovative cocktail bar blending artisanal mixology, sustainable practices, and a uniquely immersive atmosphere.
Science And Industry
0.5 km
Sophisticated cocktails and a stylish vibe await you at Science and Industry, the first-floor bar of Cane & Grain in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Cargo
0.4 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
Club Liv Manchester
0.4 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Satans Hollow
0.4 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Venue Nightclub
0.5 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.5 km
Manchester's gritty basement haven where ping pong battles rage under DJ beats and craft brews flow freely in the Northern Quarter's creative underbelly.
Funkademia
0.5 km
Manchester's longest-running funk and soul night pulses at Mint Lounge in the Northern Quarter—dance to electric disco until dawn in an underground haven.
Mint Lounge
0.5 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Club Tropicana
0.5 km
Dive into 1980s glamour at Manchester's premier gay nightclub, where drag, DJs, cocktails, and retro beats fuel the Gay Village's electric nightlife.
42's
0.6 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Bijou Club
0.6 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Aatma
0.6 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
History Nightclub
0.7 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
Royal Vida Night Club
0.8 km
Dive into Manchester's underground pulse at Royal Vida, where Castlefield's industrial shadows host thumping beats and endless nights from 11pm to 4am.
Viva Manchester
0.8 km
Compact stage-driven nightclub on Whitworth Street West — theatrical themed nights, DJ sets and group-friendly table service.
Bliss Club Manchester
0.8 km
Experience Manchester’s authentic late-night vibe at Bliss Club, where music and local energy blend into a spirited urban nightlife hub.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
