A brand new food experience is turning the streets of Manchester into a city-wide interactive challenge, guiding diners from one delicious discovery to the next.

Food Escapes combines puzzle solving with some of Manchester’s best independent restaurants in a first for the city, inviting players to solve their way through Manchester’s best-kept foodie secrets, using only their wits and a smartphone.

Each Food Escape is led by a series of clues, delivered via WhatsApp, with the answers hidden in the streets and buildings of Manchester, allowing players to unlock a series of three secret eateries throughout the city. Each series of solved puzzles reveals the next restaurant on the route, where a curated dish can be enjoyed, included in the ticket price.

And those with a competitive streak can race against friends, or secure a spot on the Food Escapes leaderboard. The timer automatically pauses at every restaurant, allowing players to enjoy the food and the atmosphere at their own pace.

With eight different food themes to choose from, there’s something for friends, families and colleagues alike. Participants can choose from options including the ‘Dumpling Trail’, ‘Los Tacos’ or the dog-friendly ‘Rise & Dine Brunch’, taking them on routes through popular districts such as the Northern Quarter, Chinatown and Ancoats, while enjoying a bite at some of the city’s best loved food and drink destinations including Mackie Mayor, House of Social and Hello Oriental.

Founder of Food Escapes Aaron Winsloe comments; “Manchester has one of the most exciting food scenes in the UK, and as a true foodie, I wanted to find a way to share that passion and create something that lets people experience Manchester’s food in a completely different way.  

“My mum was born in Southeast Asia, so it felt only fitting to dedicate one of our Escape themes to her. Growing up, I was lucky to be surrounded by a variety of foods and cultures from an early age. Food Escapes is inspired by that; merging a love for international cuisine and flavours, with a sense of adventure.

“It’s about more than just eating food. It’s about seeing things in the city that have been right in front of you the whole time, doing something new with friends, enjoying a bit of friendly competition and discovering some brilliant food and drink spots along the way. My hope is that Food Escapes will bring people together while celebrating the amazing cuisine that Manchester has to offer.”

Tickets for Food Escapes start from £40 per person with an introductory 20% off until 31 August 2026, available to purchase now at foodescapes.com. Additional discounts available for larger groups and team-building events.