The story
Tucked away on the first floor of a George Street building, Hunan Restaurant is a Manchester Chinatown institution that feels like a well-kept secret—one that notably counts Noel Gallagher among its regulars. As “Only Scrans” put it, this is the place “that even Noel Gallagher swears by,” serving authentic, fiery Hunan cuisine where “every dish is on another level.” The walk-in-friendly spot requires reservations but rewards the effort with a lineup of boldly spiced specialties.
The menu’s highlights, all given a thumbs-up by the reviewer, include Char Siu Pork, Hunan Bacon with Dry Turnip, and Sizzling Beef. Country Style Pork, White Chili Gizzard, Duck Neck, and Lamb Ribs also impressed, alongside a standout Eggplant dish and a Homemade Iced Lemon Tea to cool the heat. It’s a local spot that feels both traditional and fiercely individual, earning its hidden-gem status through relentless heat and depth of flavor.
Synthesised by AI from every creator’s review. First reviewed 2025.
Most-loved dishes
AI summary of what 9 dish mentions say about the food
“Dead soft, with smokiness and sweetness, then loads of spice. The sweetness from the eggplant comes through at the end. A unique experience.”
What creators say
1 creator has covered Hunan Restaurant. Most active: Only Scrans
A hidden gem in Manchester's Chinatown serving authentic, fiery Hunan cuisine that even Noel Gallagher swears by — every dish is on another level.
Dishes mentioned
Char Siu Pork
This is proper soft pork, sweet with deep rich flavors. The sauce is delicious.
Hunan Bacon with Dry Turnip
It has a bit of spice to it as well. The bacon is smoky and the turnip adds a nice texture.
Sizzling Beef
So thin but so soft, completely different from normal beef dishes. You get the sourness from the pickled chili and the heat from the fresh chili. It's brutal but good.
Country Style Pork
Finely sliced pork belly with garlic and chili. It's hot — the chili really wakes you up. The animal fat is good for digestion, according to the owner.
White Chili Gizzard
That chili is really nice — it activated parts of my tongue that haven't been activated before. The gizzard is chicken stomach, but it's not that hot, just wakes you up. Better than coffee.
