The air crackled with festive cheer as I stepped into Manchester’s 2024 Christmas Markets on a crisp November Saturday. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine hung heavy, and a sea of twinkling lights beckoned from the charming log cabins. It was a classic Christmas market scene, but with a twist – prices seemed to have escalated even further this year. A humble sausage now commanded a hefty £9.50, while a traditional German beer would set you back a whopping £14.
Stall operators, citing rising rent costs, defended the price increases. Manchester Council, meanwhile, emphasized the hefty investment in infrastructure and security for this beloved event. Despite the sticker shock, the ‘Winter Gardens’ offered an undeniably impressive array of culinary delights, from the vibrant flavors of Brazil to the comforting classics of French cuisine. Bars and dessert options abounded, but one glaring absence struck me – a decent cup of coffee. I searched high and low, but alas, no latte or cappuccino could be found. This seemed like a missed opportunity, especially considering the markets are open from 10am throughout the week. A festive coffee stall would have been a welcome addition, a perfect pick-me-up for those seeking a caffeine fix during their workday break.
Determined to embark on a culinary journey through the markets, I opted for a classic crepe to kick things off. A childhood favorite, the crepe had always been a highlight of my visits. The sight of the batter swirling on the hot griddle, skillfully transformed into a delicate crepe with the deft use of metal spreaders, was a nostalgic ritual. This time, however, my lemon and sugar crepe, while fluffy and crisp, fell short in the flavor department. The generous spritz of lemon juice failed to compensate for a certain dryness, and the lack of a more substantial filling left me wanting more.
Next, I ventured towards King Street, lured by the tantalizing aroma of roast meats. Exchange Square, bustling with lunchtime crowds, boasted a dozen or so food stalls, but one stood out – Porky Pig, renowned for its Yorkshire pudding wraps. This year, their footlong battered pig-in-blanket had become a sensation, drawing massive queues. The scene resembled a stock exchange in overdrive, with eager customers jostling for position, clutching their receipts and shouting out order numbers. Despite the commotion, the service was surprisingly quick, and within four minutes, I was clutching a generous vegetarian Yorkshire pudding wrap.
For £9.50, the wrap offered a symphony of flavors, with a perfect crispy outer layer and a fluffy interior that generously absorbed the delicious gravy. The creamy, herby stuffing, steamed vegetables, scalloped potatoes, and savory veggie sausages were a true delight. It was a substantial meal, more than enough for lunch or even dinner, leaving me happily full and content. The urge to explore further food stalls evaporated; even the allure of giant Toblerone or cheese-filled coins couldn’t tempt me.
With a long day of festive exploration ahead, I knew a hot chocolate was an essential indulgence. The churros stand in Piccadilly Gardens offered a ‘luxury’ version for £4.50. It arrived adorned with whipped cream, marshmallows, and a Flake bar, a delightful visual feast. But once the toppings were navigated, the reality was an average instant hot chocolate, with a rather meager amount. I pondered whether a spiked version with Baileys or Amaretto might have added a touch of magic, or perhaps a choice of cocoa made with Ghiardelli or real chocolate. However, the sheer volume of hot chocolate stalls, over 20 in total, made choosing a winner without tasting a gamble.
The inflated prices at Christmas markets are an accepted reality. Yet, for a main course, dessert, and drink, £19 felt reasonable, especially considering the city’s average dining costs. However, the quality of what I experienced was inconsistent. If you’re planning a visit, it’s wise to review the list of stalls beforehand and check out our guide to the best ones. Otherwise, the hustle and bustle, the smoke from the bratwurst grill, and the intoxicating aroma of mulled wine can easily overwhelm your senses. Enjoy the festive cheer, but be prepared for a culinary adventure with both tantalizing delights and a few disappointments along the way.
