Erst.

Erst brings a sharp, minimalist edge to the Ancoats dining scene, housed in a converted warehouse defined by polished concrete and a stainless steel open kitchen. The focus here is on restraint and quality, stripping away the fuss of formal dining in favor of a democratic, laid-back atmosphere. Chef Patrick Withington’s menu centers on seasonal small plates that lean heavily on the grill and Mediterranean influences—think fire-kissed flatbreads, salt-cod, and cured meats. Complementing the food is a strictly natural wine list curated by co-founder Will Sutton, featuring organic and biodynamic bottles from small-scale producers. It is a place that feels quintessentially Manchester: industrial, unpretentious, and deeply committed to the raw materials, whether that’s a vintage orange wine or a simple plate of heritage tomatoes.