The story
This & That in Manchester has served Indian cuisine since 1984, when a family opened doors on Soap Street to feed nearby warehouse staff. The Northern Quarter absorbed South Asian cooking after migrant workers arrived during the textile mill era, and this kitchen adapted those early canteen traditions for a new generation. The Good Food Guide recognised the spot as a Local Gem, noting how the venue quietly shaped local dining habits for decades. Patrons still visit the same corner building that once prioritised speed and substance over ceremony.
The kitchen prepares every dish by hand, grinding fresh whole spices rather than relying on pre-made blends. A substantial menu features a wide range of curries, giving visitors plenty of room to explore classic Indian cooking methods. Each sauce simmers separately to preserve distinct taste profiles, a practical approach that maintains quality across a large daily service. The emphasis remains squarely on homemade preparations that deliver consistent heat and texture.
The signature format arrives as rice paired with a choice of three curries, a structure the restaurant helped popularise across the region. Guests typically order this combination for a quick, wholesome meal that stays comfortably under ten pounds. The space carries the practical energy of its original purpose, keeping things bright and unhurried throughout the day. Families and solo diners share the same counter-style seating, maintaining the straightforward ethos of casual Indian dining.
Recognition
Location
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