Whether it's a quick lunchtime bite or a pit stop during your Christmas shopping, the Manchester Arndale Food Market has a whole host of food traders, and we think it's still a bit of a hidden gem on the lunch circuit.
Sandwiched between the trendy NQ and the bright lights of the high street - it's easy to see why the Arndale Market gets overlooked, but the plethora of international cuisine available is definitely in need of a closer look.
I spent one delicious day tasting my way around the market, and found a huge range lovely grub from equally lovely traders, all at incredible prices. (don't worry, all leftover food went to the homeless - one girl can only eat so much.)
A vibrant addition to the Manchester street food scene - the family run Viet Shack serves healthy and refreshing meals both in the market, and at various events with their mobile unit.
Flame grilled beef and rice with salad - £5.99
King prawn summer rolls - £2.99
Something of an Arndale Market success story, award winning Pancho's is a Mexican street food stall with a selection of beers - and even tequila - to accompany your food. They also sell a number of specialist ingredients, such as cactus leaves and chipotle chillis.
Pork and lime tostadas con lettuce and homemade salsa - £5.99.
Better known as a specialist cheese supplier, the Queen Brie also has a small but thoughtful and well sourced lunch menu.
Cheese toasties made on local Barbakan bread, with your choice of artisan cheese - £2.00. Extra toppings ( organic pesto / chorizo / jalepeño ) 50p.
While these specialist grilled cheese slingers aren't actually inside the Arndale Food Market, they are part of the market remit. Located in an open air stall on Church Street, it's a little chilly - but you'll soon be warmed up by good vibes, hot toasties and soulful tunes.
Crimbo dinner - turkey crown, glazed ham, gravy, cranberry sauce, topped with a stuffing ball and pig in blanket - £7.00.
African-Caribbean meals, including curry and street food. Try before you buy if you're not sure what to have - staff are very happy give you a taste tour of their food.
Jerk Chicken - 3.50
Plantains - 2.00
Selection box: Curried goat, rice and peas, plantains, fried dumpling and jerk chicken.
Hollywood Dhaba
A selection of curry with rice and salads, ask for the selection box if you can't make up your mind.
Rice and three curry - chicken jalfrezi, lamb ballot, aubergine curry - £5.00.
Pancake House
As the name suggests, their range of waffles and pancakes are extensive, but i decided to stick with the lunch vibes - they are happy to make up wraps to your taste, and have some good veggie options.
Falafel wrap with salad - £3.45.
Hansfords
Hansfords has been in the Arndale Market since the start, and have been in trading for over 100 years. A well stocked deli serving an assortment of snacks and meals including roasts and breakfasts.
All day meal includes any fresh sandwich or panini, a drink and any cake - £4.35.
Lean and Mean
Popular with weight conscious - and I'm talking more body builders than dieters - Lean and Mean serve food high in either protein or carbs, depending on what you're looking for.
Salmon fillet with rice and salad - £6.50.
Café Issano
A range of toasties and sandwiches from £2.00, or get a coffee and a scone for just £2.00. A cheap and cheerful lunch option.
Piri chicken with cheese - 2.95.
Zorba's Greek Cuisine
Established in 2006, Zorba's are a market veteran, serving a range of Greek curry, wraps and salads with a couple of great veggie options.
Slow cooked chicken with spinach and salad of your choice - £4.50.
Halloumi pitta - £3.00
The Market Plaice
Great pun, but surprisingly no fish - just a range of wraps and handmade naans which are made fresh every morning.
Barbecue Lamb Wrap with fresh naan and salad - starts from £4.00.
Café Greco
Selection of toasted baguettes from £2.20 - cheap and cheerful.
Feta, pesto and tomato - £2.50.
Eat 2 Treat
Selection of Indian street food and curries, with samosas or pakoras just £1.
Selection box: chicken pakora, onion bhaji, aloo tikki, chicken kebab, samosa and salad - £6.50
In association with the Arndale Market