The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle, Manchester
Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
Tucked beneath railway arches in Manchester’s Cheetham Hill, The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle offers a cozy, buzzy atmosphere with a unique focus on handmade European pasta and dumplings. Renowned for its authentic spätzle and diverse dishes inspired by German, Italian, Polish, and Austrian cuisines, this intimate venue delights with rich flavors and attentive service, making it a standout destination for lovers of hearty, artisanal carbs.
A brief summary to The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
- 16 Red Bank, Manchester, Cheetham Hill, M4 4HF, GB
- +441613026267
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-11 pm
- Wednesday 5 pm-11 pm
- Thursday 5 pm-11 pm
- Friday 5 pm-11 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-11 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-10 pm
Local tips
- Book well in advance as the restaurant is small and popular, especially on weekends.
- Order multiple small dishes to share and sample a variety of their signature pasta and dumplings.
- Try the spätzle with butter and sage or guanciale for a true taste of their specialty.
- Pair your meal with selections from their diverse European wine list, including German and Austrian varieties.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
A Distinctive Culinary Haven Beneath the Rails
Nestled in the industrial charm of Manchester’s Cheetham Hill, The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle occupies a unique setting beneath railway arches, creating an intimate and quirky dining environment. The restaurant’s unassuming exterior belies the vibrant atmosphere inside, where communal tables and warm lighting foster a sense of conviviality reminiscent of Central European taverns. This hidden gem combines rustic charm with a modern urban vibe, making it a memorable spot for locals and visitors alike.Celebrating Mittel-European Pasta and Dumplings
The Sparrows specializes in handmade pasta and dumplings drawing from the culinary traditions of southern Germany, northern Italy, Poland, and Austria. The star of the menu is the spätzle — soft, rustic noodles made fresh daily — which come in various preparations such as butter and sage or with guanciale pork cheek, delivering comforting, rich flavors. Other highlights include pillowy gnocchi with wild garlic and burrata, delicate pierogi filled with cottage cheese and potato, and crispy pelmeni dumplings served with sour cream. The dishes emphasize hearty, satisfying textures and authentic tastes that celebrate carb-centric comfort food.A Menu Crafted with Passion and Regional Flair
The Sparrows’ menu is a carefully curated journey through Central European flavors, featuring dishes like rich goulash with flecks of dumpling dough, split-open sausages served with sauerkraut and pickles, and delectable desserts such as classic tiramisu and apple strudel. The kitchen’s focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques results in plates that are both rustic and refined. The wine list complements the food with selections from Germany, Italy, and beyond, including notable German pinot bianco and Austrian Grüner Veltliner.Atmosphere and Service: Warmth with a Modern Edge
Inside, the restaurant buzzes with energy and warmth despite its compact size. The staff are passionate and knowledgeable, often guiding diners through the menu’s variety and encouraging sharing of multiple dishes to fully experience the flavors. While the service is friendly and attentive, some guests note occasional delays during busy periods, which contrasts with the otherwise welcoming vibe. The setting’s exposed brick, steel arches, and communal seating enhance the sense of a lively, authentic European eatery.Local Recognition and Culinary Impact
Since its launch, The Sparrows has garnered acclaim from food critics and locals alike for its exceptional handmade pasta and dumplings. It has been praised for bringing a slice of Central European culinary heritage to Manchester, often described as a must-visit for food enthusiasts seeking hearty, artisanal dishes. Its unique location and menu have established it as a cultural and gastronomic landmark within the city’s diverse dining scene.Embracing Tradition with a Contemporary Spirit
The Sparrows is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of tradition infused with contemporary creativity. The owners’ Polish and Northern Italian roots shine through in the menu’s blend of flavors and textures, offering diners a rare opportunity to explore Mittel-European cuisine in an urban British setting. This fusion of heritage and innovation creates a dining experience that is both comforting and exciting, inviting guests to savor every bite in a lively, convivial atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Robert Owen Statue
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Lowry Footbridge
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Statue of the Duke of Wellington
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Dalton Entry
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Mulberry Passage
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John Bright Statue
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Albert Memorial
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Manchester City Council
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Connaught Building
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Arch of Chinatown
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St. Peter's Square
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Free Trade Hall
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Unmissable attractions to see
AO Arena
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National Football Museum
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Cathedral Gardens
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Manchester Jewish Museum
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Band on the Wall
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Corn Exchange Manchester
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NQ Mural
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Manchester Cathedral
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Manchester Craft and Design Centre
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Exchange Sq
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Manchester Buddhist Centre
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The Mitre Hotel
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Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
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Essential places to dine
The Sparrows Continental Pasta & Spätzle
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Cozy railway-arch eatery in Manchester serving authentic handmade spätzle and Central European pasta with a lively, buzzy atmosphere.
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Hoot
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&made
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Jessica6 Designs
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Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
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Deadstock General Store
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Kiku Boutique
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Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store
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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
- Cozy
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Industrial
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
