Best Local Restaurant

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Lupo

Greater Manchester, Prestwich - Italian - Café & Restaurant - ££

Charming caffè-cum-trattoria in a surprising setting

Overall Rating: Very Good

Uniqueness:Does the establishment stand out in the context of the local area? Exceptional

Deliciousness:How delicious is the food? Very Good

Warmth:How warm is the service and the hospitality in general? Very Good

Strength of recommendation:How enthusiastically and widely would you recommend the establishment? Very Good

‘If you’re looking for a place that feels like a warm hug from Nonna, this is an absolute must-visit,' is wise advice from one loyal fan. Nico Pasquali has been bringing ‘a slice of Rome to north Manchester’ since 2014. Even though his homely little all-day trattoria is in the incongruous setting of an industrial estate, it attracts a steady flow of customers drawn by the unfussy, unpretentious vibe, the chequered tablecloths, the soft hum of Italian music, and the precisely cooked traditional dishes – from perfectly crisped Roman-style pizzas to richly sauced hand-rolled pastas. One reporter singled out the cannelloni with ricotta and spinach, but other reasonably priced options might range from battered courgette flowers and crocchette (handmade potato balls filled with scamorza cheese) to lobster ravioli – not forgetting those pizzas (and pastries). To drink, there's a modest collection of artisan Italian wines, as well as cocktails and Italian be...

‘If you’re looking for a place that feels like a warm hug from Nonna, this is an absolute must-visit,' is wise advice from one loyal fan. Nico Pasquali has been bringing ‘a slice of Rome to north Manchester’ since 2014. Even though his homely little all-day trattoria is in the incongruous setting of an industrial estate, it attracts a steady flow of customers drawn by the unfussy, unpretentious vibe, the chequered tablecloths, the soft hum of Italian music, and the precisely cooked traditional dishes – from perfectly crisped Roman-style pizzas to richly sauced hand-rolled pastas. One reporter singled out the cannelloni with ricotta and spinach, but other reasonably priced options might range from battered courgette flowers and crocchette (handmade potato balls filled with scamorza cheese) to lobster ravioli – not forgetting those pizzas (and pastries). To drink, there's a modest collection of artisan Italian wines, as well as cocktails and Italian beers. The expertly brewed coffee also receives rave notices.

 

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I Griffin

17 April 2026

Friendly, homely and great food run by a caring owner who wants to give his customers the best.

H Khurshid

16 April 2025

I ate at this hidden gem earlier today. It was my first visit. The welcome, the atmosphere, decor, service and quality of food is the best I’ve experienced for many years. All staff are lovely, seeing to customers in a kind professional way. I had the cannelloni for mains, with apple tart and breakfast tea for afters. Eating here, felt like family, homely, warm.

H Woolnough

16 April 2025

Nico is so friendly and loves telling you about his traditional Italian food. Great coffee and pastries, you feel like you have a slice of Rome in north Manchester.

H Lee

16 April 2025

A true taste of Italy with a personal touch. From the moment you step into this charming Italian gem, you’re made to feel like part of the family. The owner greets you with the kind of warmth and sincerity that instant...
A true taste of Italy with a personal touch. From the moment you step into this charming Italian gem, you’re made to feel like part of the family. The owner greets you with the kind of warmth and sincerity that instantly puts you at ease—genuinely personable, attentive, and clearly passionate about what he does. It’s rare these days to find someone who not only runs the place but also takes the time to chat with guests, share stories, and make sure everyone feels at home. And the food—wo...
A true taste of Italy with a personal touch. From the moment you step into this charming Italian gem, you’re made to feel like part of the family. The owner greets you with the kind of warmth and sincerity that instantly puts you at ease—genuinely personable, attentive, and clearly passionate about what he does. It’s rare these days to find someone who not only runs the place but also takes the time to chat with guests, share stories, and make sure everyone feels at home. And the food—wow. Every dish is packed with flavor and clearly made with love. Whether it’s the hand-rolled pasta, rich sauces, or the perfectly crisped pizza, you can taste the authenticity in every bite. It’s not just Italian cuisine; it’s a celebration of tradition and comfort. The atmosphere ties it all together: cozy, rustic, and full of character. Think checkered tablecloths, the soft hum of Italian music, and the kind of ambiance that makes you want to linger over that last sip of wine. If you’re looking for a place that feels like a warm hug from Nonna, with unforgettable food and a host who treats you like an old friend, this is it. An absolute must-visit.
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