Cane & Grain: Manchester’s Southern Soul Bar and Grill
Experience authentic Southern American soul food and craft cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at Cane & Grain.
Cane & Grain is a vibrant bar and American-style restaurant located in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, known for its soulful Southern US-inspired menu, standout cocktails, and lively atmosphere. With a focus on barbecue ribs, burgers, and classic sides like mac 'n' cheese and cornbread, it offers a casual yet spirited dining experience infused with rustic charm and urban energy.
A brief summary to Cane & Grain
- 49, 51 Thomas St, Manchester, M4 1NA, GB
- +441618397033
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-2 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-2 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-2 am
- Thursday 12 pm-2 am
- Friday 12 pm-3 am
- Saturday 12 pm-3 am
- Sunday 12 pm-2 am
Local tips
- Try the barbecue ribs with sauce on the side for a customizable flavor experience.
- Order the jalapeño cornbread and smoky pit beans for classic Southern sides.
- Visit upstairs to discover the hidden Science and Industry cocktail bar for a refined drink experience.
- Cocktails are expertly crafted; ask bartenders to recommend drinks based on your favorite spirits.
- Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends, so consider visiting on weekdays for a quieter experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Cane & Grain location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Cane & Grain
A Taste of the Deep South in Manchester
Cane & Grain brings a slice of Southern American soul food and culture to Manchester’s Northern Quarter. The venue’s exterior evokes a weather-beaten Deep South aesthetic, setting the tone for an authentic experience inside. The menu centers around classic American barbecue dishes, with pork ribs served in dry rub or sticky styles, alongside hearty sides such as smoky beans, jalapeño cornbread, and truffle mac 'n' cheese. Burgers, including the Deep South Burger with southern fried chicken and the Mexican Bean Burger, add variety while staying true to the Americana theme.Atmosphere and Ambience
Inside, the bar exudes a lively, urban oasis vibe with a colourful and rustic interior that complements the Southern theme. The venue is split into a bustling Rib Joint and Tap Room on the ground floor and a more refined Science and Industry cocktail bar upstairs, which is cleverly hidden behind a secret door. The atmosphere is casual and friendly, attracting couples and groups looking for good food and expertly crafted cocktails in a relaxed setting.Craft Cocktails and Bar Experience
Cane & Grain is renowned for its cocktail craftsmanship, with bartenders tailoring drinks to guests' preferences. Signature cocktails such as the rum-based City of Gold offer a balance of rustic and refined flavors. The bar also features a solid selection of beers and long drinks, often accompanied by lively moments like fire showmanship, enhancing the overall experience.Service and Clientele
The staff are generally praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to the welcoming vibe. While the venue is popular and can get busy, the team strives to maintain good service quality. The clientele is diverse, with a mix of locals and visitors enjoying the food and drinks. However, some reviews note occasional service inconsistencies and menu limitations, reflecting the challenges of a busy, trendy spot.Location and Setting
Situated at 49-51 Thomas Street in Manchester’s creative and vibrant Northern Quarter, Cane & Grain benefits from a lively urban environment rich in street art, independent shops, and nightlife. The venue’s design and setting make it a standout destination for those seeking a unique blend of Southern US culture in a Northern English city.Signature Dishes and Highlights
The barbecue ribs are a highlight, with options to control sauce levels for a personalized experience. Sides like the smoky pit beans with burnt ends and jalapeño cornbread are celebrated for their authentic flavors. While some dishes like the mac 'n' cheese receive mixed feedback, the overall menu offers satisfying, hearty fare that complements the drink selection and convivial atmosphere.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of the Duke of Wellington
0.3 km
A commanding Victorian bronze statue in Piccadilly Gardens honoring the Duke of Wellington’s military valor and political legacy.
Robert Owen Statue
0.4 km
Honoring Robert Owen, pioneer of social reform and the co-operative movement, through a striking statue in Manchester’s city heart.
The Undamaged Red Post Box
0.5 km
A resilient symbol of hope standing where devastation once reigned on Manchester's Corporation Street.
Murrays' Mill
0.6 km
Explore Murrays' Mills, the world’s oldest urban steam-powered cotton mill, where industrial heritage meets modern living in Manchester’s historic Ancoats district.
Arch of Chinatown
0.7 km
Europe's only imperial Chinese arch, a stunning gateway to Manchester's vibrant multicultural heart.
Connaught Building
0.7 km
Discover the historic Connaught Building in Manchester, a captivating landmark reflecting the city’s rich architectural heritage and vibrant urban spirit.
John Bright Statue
0.7 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
0.7 km
Manchester City Council’s majestic Town Hall in Albert Square: a Victorian Neo-Gothic masterpiece and symbol of civic heritage.
Dalton Entry
0.8 km
Discover Dalton Entry, a hidden Manchester alley honoring John Dalton’s atomic theory and scientific legacy through art and history.
Albert Memorial
0.8 km
A grand Victorian Gothic monument in Albert Square celebrating Prince Albert’s legacy through art, science, and culture.
Victory Over Blindness
0.8 km
A powerful bronze memorial at Manchester Piccadilly honoring WWI veterans blinded in battle, symbolizing resilience and solidarity at eye level.
Mulberry Passage
0.8 km
Discover Mulberry Passage, a hidden Manchester alleyway celebrating John Dalton’s atomic theory through captivating art and historic charm.
St. Peter's Square
0.8 km
Manchester’s historic St Peter's Square blends rich heritage, iconic architecture, and vibrant urban life at the heart of the city centre.
Alan Turing Memorial
0.8 km
Explore the Alan Turing Memorial in Manchester, a tribute to the father of computer science and a symbol of resilience and innovation in history.
Manchester Central Library
0.8 km
Explore the architectural beauty and cultural richness of Manchester Central Library, a historic gem in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
NQ Mural
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant NQ Mural, a colorful centerpiece of Manchester's Northern Quarter renowned for its dynamic street art and creative energy.
Manchester Craft and Design Centre
0.1 km
Discover handmade crafts, meet local artists, and enjoy artisan café culture in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Manchester Buddhist Centre
0.1 km
A serene urban sanctuary in Manchester’s Northern Quarter offering meditation, wellness, and a unique sober bar experience.
Breakout Manchester Church Street
0.1 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms on Manchester’s Church Street with diverse themes and challenging puzzles for all skill levels.
Shops
0.2 km
Discover Oldham Street, Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter hotspot for vintage fashion, indie shops, live music, and authentic urban culture.
DRY BAR
0.2 km
Discover the lively ambiance and eclectic music scene at DRY BAR, a premier bar and nightclub in Manchester's vibrant nightlife.
Afflecks
0.2 km
Explore Manchester’s legendary alternative indoor market, home to over 60 independent traders and a vibrant hub of creativity and culture.
Blue Rinse Manchester and Kilo Shop
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion treasures by the kilo in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, blending style with sustainability.
Band on the Wall
0.2 km
Historic Manchester music venue famed for intimate gigs, jazz roots, punk legacy, and a unique stage high on the wall.
Stevenson Square
0.2 km
Manchester’s Stevenson Square: the energetic Northern Quarter hub for bars, culture, and vibrant nightlife in the city centre.
Express Building
0.3 km
A timeless Streamline Moderne masterpiece blending historic print heritage with vibrant modern workspaces in the heart of Ancoats, Manchester.
Greater Manchester Police Museum & Archives
0.3 km
Explore Manchester’s historic police station, original cells, and magistrates’ court in this immersive museum dedicated to policing heritage.
Manchester Arndale Shopping Centre
0.3 km
Manchester’s largest indoor shopping centre, with over 200 stores, restaurants, and leisure options in the heart of the city.
Piccadilly Gardens
0.3 km
Manchester’s central green space blending historic charm, modern design, and vital transport connections in a lively urban setting.
Empire Exchange
0.4 km
Dive into Manchester’s eclectic Empire Exchange, a treasure trove of vintage comics, vinyl, and collectibles where every visit uncovers a new story.
Essential places to dine
Cane & Grain
0.0 km
Discover Cane & Grain: where traditional American cuisine meets Manchester's vibrant nightlife scene in an unforgettable dining experience.
Almost Famous NQ
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Bold, indulgent burgers and vibrant vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, a must-visit for burger lovers and casual diners alike.
PUPA Restaurant & Bar
0.0 km
Authentic Mediterranean charcoal grill and vibrant atmosphere in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, perfect for steak lovers and lively dining.
Yard & Coop Manchester
0.1 km
Savor the best buttermilk fried chicken in Manchester’s Northern Quarter with bold flavors, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
63 Degrees
0.1 km
Experience meticulous French cuisine and elegant dining in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter at 63 Degrees.
Liquor and Burn
0.1 km
Experience bold Mexican street food and vibrant cocktails in Manchester’s artistic Northern Quarter at Luck Lust Liquor & Burn.
TNQ - The Northern Quarter Restaurant & Bar
0.1 km
A beloved Northern Quarter gem serving seasonal British cuisine with award-winning roasts and warm, attentive service in a relaxed brasserie setting.
Evuna NQ
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant hospitality in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Evuna NQ, a lively hub for food, wine, and culture.
Sicilian NQ - Restaurant and Bar
0.1 km
Authentic Sicilian cuisine and vibrant bar life in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, famed for arancini and inclusive vegan options.
Trof Northern Quarter
0.1 km
A multi-level Northern Quarter gem serving hearty British comfort food, craft beers, and rare bourbons in a lively, rustic setting.
Pieminister Manchester
0.1 km
Savor award-winning British pies in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter, where tradition meets modern comfort food in a lively, welcoming setting.
Turtle Bay Manchester Northern Quarter
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively island vibes in Manchester’s Northern Quarter at Turtle Bay.
Tariff & Dale
0.4 km
Historic industrial charm meets modern British cuisine and inventive cocktails in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter.
Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Manchester
0.4 km
Contemporary Italian dining with cocktails in Manchester's vibrant Corn Exchange.
Viet Shack Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience bold Vietnamese street food flavors and vibrant fusion dishes in the heart of Manchester’s creative Ancoats district.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Deadstock General Store
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Discover useful beauty at Deadstock General Store, where Liam Jackson curates high-end Japanese designs, artisan gifts, and tailoring in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
&made
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and artworks at &made, a creative studio in Manchester’s vibrant Northern Quarter craft hub.
Jessica6 Designs
0.1 km
Discover unique luxury gifts and local artistry at Jessica6 Designs within Manchester’s vibrant Craft & Design Centre.
Studio One - Jewellery, Craft, Gifts and Homewares
0.1 km
Discover exquisite handmade jewellery and crafts at Studio One, a vibrant artisan studio within Manchester’s historic Craft and Design Centre.
Laissez Faire UK Fairtrade & Eco Clothes & Gifts
0.1 km
Discover fairtrade and eco-friendly fashion and gifts in the heart of Manchester’s vibrant Church Street district.
Cow Vintage Manchester
0.1 km
Discover trend-led vintage fashion and sustainable style in Manchester’s creative Northern Quarter at Cow Vintage.
Pop Boutique
0.2 km
Tucked into Oldham Street, Pop Boutique is Manchester’s well-curated vintage emporium for mid-century to 1990s fashion finds and eclectic accessories.
Red and Blue Umbrella
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and friendly service at Manchester’s Red and Blue Umbrella vintage clothing shop on Church Street.
Thunder Egg
0.2 km
Dive into a rainbow of quirky fashion and gifts at Thunder Egg, Manchester's colorful boutique for unique vintage-inspired styles and playful outfits.
Kiku Boutique
0.2 km
Bespoke corsets and vintage lingerie in Manchester's Northern Quarter: handmade elegance that defies fast fashion.
Nordic Muse Lifestyle Store
0.2 km
A quietly curated Northern Quarter boutique for simple, well-crafted jewellery and Nordic-inspired homeware.
Suzylovesmilo concept store
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion and sustainable style at Suzylovesmilo, Manchester’s curated concept store blending Japanese influences with local creativity.
Amazonas Gifts
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Amazonas Gifts, nestled in the heart of Manchester Markets Piccadilly.
The Manchester Shop
0.2 km
Discover Manchester's soul in bee motifs, music tees, and proud souvenirs at this Northern Quarter gem within Afflecks Arcade.
Hoot
0.2 km
Discover magical gifts and Harry Potter treasures at Hoot, a charming boutique nestled in Manchester Arndale’s vibrant shopping heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Science And Industry
0.0 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.
Wolf at the Door
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A vibrant Northern Quarter bar serving innovative tapas-style bao buns, craft cocktails, and a lively urban atmosphere.
The Daisy
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Parisian subterranean cocktail haven in Manchester's Northern Quarter: eclectic vibes, masterful drinks, and weekend DJ magic beneath Evelyn's.
Behind Closed Doors
0.1 km
Descend into debauched delight at this Northern Quarter speakeasy, where retro telephones summon saucy cocktails amid erotic art, neon booths, and funky DJ beats until 4am.
Wilson's Social
0.2 km
All-day Northern Quarter hub: brunch by day, cocktails and beats by night in a multi-level party palace with pool, courtyard, and private den.
Night & Day Cafe
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Manchester's intimate live music heartbeat in the Northern Quarter—where legends launched and nights ignite with raw indie energy.
NQ64 Northern Quarter
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Retro arcade bar blasting 80s-90s nostalgia with neon cocktails, token games, and basement buzz in Manchester's Northern Quarter.
Mean Eyed Cat Bar Manchester
0.2 km
Dive into Manchester’s Northern Quarter for rebellious rock ’n’ roll vibes, free pizza, and legendary dice games at Mean Eyed Cat Bar.
Dusk Til Pawn
0.2 km
Secretive pawn-shop façade, intimate speakeasy interior and a menu of inventive cocktails in Manchester’s Northern Quarter.
The Washhouse
0.2 km
Step through a washing machine door into Manchester’s secret speakeasy, where inventive cocktails and quirky charm create an unforgettable night out.
Flok
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Lively pub with excellent drinks and friendly vibes in the heart of Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife.
7Sins, Northern Quarter
0.2 km
A vibrant basement bar and gaming hub in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, mixing cocktails, pool, arcade games, and dance club energy.
Bar Fringe
0.2 km
A cozy Northern Quarter bar with quirky charm, top Belgian beers, live music, and a welcoming vibe for relaxed socializing.
The Fitzgerald
0.3 km
Velvet seats, craft cocktails and live jazz in a 1920s‑inspired Manchester speakeasy with a stage for cabaret and private hire.
The Crown & Kettle
0.3 km
Grade II-listed Ancoats gem with a world-class tin ceiling, craft beer mastery, and cozy Victorian vibes—Manchester's perfect pub hybrid.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Funkademia
0.1 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
0.2 km
Experience Manchester’s Northern Quarter nightlife at Mint Lounge, a lively club with eclectic music, affordable drinks, and an inclusive vibe.
Aatma
0.3 km
Manchester's underground heartbeat: live beats, pizza slices, and all-night vibes in the Northern Quarter's hidden gem.
Twenty Twenty Two
0.3 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.
Cargo
0.3 km
Manchester's Printworks powerhouse: light-up dance floors, bottomless brunches, and non-stop beats until dawn in the city's nightlife epicenter.
YDSA Events | Queer Clubbing
0.6 km
Dive into Manchester's most inclusive queer rave: grungy beats, diverse dancers, and unapologetic joy at YDSA Events in Ancoats.
Bijou Club
0.6 km
Manchester's hidden riverside gem: celebrity vibes, secret garden terrace, and LED-lit beats in an exclusive Deansgate nightclub.
Satans Hollow
0.8 km
Manchester's infernal punk-rock abyss: demonic decor, dirt-cheap drinks, and mosh-pit mayhem for metalheads and rebels.
Club Tropicana
0.8 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.
Club Liv Manchester
0.8 km
Experience Manchester’s vibrant nightlife with exclusive VIP vibes, world-class Pan-Asian dining, and a stylish rooftop terrace at Club Liv.
Venue Nightclub
0.9 km
Manchester's underground indie haven: cheap drinks, packed dance floors, and anthems till dawn in Deansgate's electric night scene.
42's
1.0 km
Manchester’s iconic indie nightclub blending rich musical heritage with a lively, inclusive nightlife experience.
Hidden at Downtex Mill
1.1 km
Manchester's raw warehouse nightclub in a historic mill: underground beats, industrial grit, and all-night raves in Cheetham Hill's creative heart.
FAC251 - Factory Manchester
1.1 km
Experience Manchester’s legendary Factory Records heritage with three floors of indie, rock, and electronic music at FAC251 - The Factory.
History Nightclub
1.1 km
Experience Manchester’s lively hip hop and house beats at History Nightclub, a large, energetic venue open late into the night.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Casual
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie 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
- Adults Only
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
