Ресторан · Manchester · ⭐ 9.1/10 · 4112 reviews · $$ · updated: 2026-06-30 21:00:52
Address: Oxford St, Manchester M60 7HA, United Kingdom
Glam-meets-industrial dining at the Kimpton Clocktower
The Refuge is one of Manchester’s most distinctive destination restaurants, set in the heart of the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel (formerly the Principal). Created by DJs-turned-restaurateurs Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford — the team behind Volta in Didsbury — it’s a glam-meets-industrial space that flows from an all-day café into a buzzy drinking den as the evening goes on. Slick industrial styling meets homely touches, and the stunning Winter Garden, with its glass ceiling and lush year-round greenery, is a highlight in itself.
What to order
The eclectic menu brings together small dishes and sharing platters with flavours from all over the world, given a Mancunian twist. The Show Menu, designed for two to share, is full of bold, indulgent plates — think grilled flatbreads, chilli-marinated olives, sweet potato hummus, crispy Korean fried chicken and the famous triple-cooked chips. There’s everything from globally inspired small plates to a proper Sunday roast.
Who it’s for
With soft lighting, ambient music and a stylish setting, The Refuge works beautifully for dates, catch-ups with friends, afternoon tea in the Winter Garden or a lively evening that drifts into drinks. It’s a versatile all-day spot for anyone who wants atmosphere with their meal.
Questions and answers
What kind of food does The Refuge serve? Eclectic global small plates and sharing platters with a Mancunian twist.
What should I order? The Show Menu to share, with Korean fried chicken, flatbreads and the famous triple-cooked chips.
Who created it? DJs-turned-restaurateurs Luke Cowdrey and Justin Crawford, the team behind Volta.
What makes the space special? A glam-meets-industrial design and the glass-ceilinged Winter Garden.
Is there a Sunday roast? Yes — served all day on Sundays in the dining room, crowned with towering Yorkshire puddings; tables go quickly, so book ahead.
Opening hours
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10:00–23:00 |
| Tuesday | 10:00–23:00 |
| Wednesday | 10:00–23:00 |
| Thursday | 10:00–23:00 |
| Friday | 10:00–00:00 |
| Saturday | 10:00–00:00 |
| Sunday | 10:00–22:30 |
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Visitor reviews
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It was so stunning to peek inside one of the most famous buildings in Manchester city centre. It's the former Refuge Insurance building, now converted into a luxury hotel. As you'd imagine from decades ago, the interior…
Reviews last updated: 2026-06-30 21:00:52
Data is refreshed monthly. Sources: manchester-trend.com and editorial picks based on reviews.
Was in Manchester for the weekend, booked The Refuge for lunch. Fantastic decor and atmosphere, wonderful ambience. Our waiter Wade was wonderful, so friendly, informative and pleasant to talk to. Wonderful recommendatio…
Where do you start… probably with the fabulous Mina — concierge, problem solver, and always ready to help with a huge smile… just don't try stealing the concierge trolleys! The building itself is incredible. The receptio…
Come here for a Sunday roast. Book the Winter Garden terrace and Hannah O. as your waitress. Wonderful atmosphere, tasty food and a lovely, fun waitress. Hannah O was kind, helpful and her service was incredible. Perfect…
We stopped by The Refuge for lunch with my partner. The place itself is beautiful, set in a historic building with high ceilings and a rich atmosphere. It has a lively vibe, and the interior design really stands out. The…
This restaurant is special to me and my partner. It's been our choice for several important occasions, we love the architecture, atmosphere and food. We had family in town and decided to share our 'happy place'. We were…