Erst Menu Overview at Ancoats Manchester Restaurant

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Ancoats, Manchester, Erst offers an exceptional dining experience featuring a curated menu of seasonal small plates inspired by Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern flavors. The menu is thoughtfully crafted for sharing, perfect for food enthusiasts seeking a journey of punchy, balanced, and innovative tastes in a contemporary setting.

Starters

Kick off your meal with a selection of vibrant starters that set the tone for a flavorful feast. The Grilled Flatbread with Tomato combines the rustic charm of freshly grilled flatbread topped with rich tomato pulp, garlic, and olive oil, delivering a perfect balance of smoky and fresh notes. For a more indulgent option, try the Grilled Flatbread with Garlic Herb Butter and Whipped Lardo — a luscious blend of creamy whipped pork fat and aromatic garlic herb butter that melts beautifully on the palate.

The Beetroot with Ajo Blanco and Green Chilli offers a refreshing twist with earthy beetroot paired with a chilled, garlicky Spanish almond soup and a spicy kick of green chili. Meanwhile, the Parisian Gnocchi with Courgette and Wild Garlic provides a delicate, pillowy texture complemented by the fresh, verdant flavors of wild garlic and tender courgette.

Mains

Erst’s mains feature expertly prepared, robust dishes bursting with flavor. The Lamb Belly Skewer with Date is a standout, offering succulent lamb belly grilled to perfection with a subtle sweetness from the dates, creating a harmonious combination of savory and sweet.

For steak lovers, the Onglet Steak with Bordelaise Sauce is a must-try — tender, richly flavored onglet steak paired with a classic French bordelaise sauce that elevates the dish with deep, wine-infused complexity. The Steak Tartare with Three-Cornered Leek, Beef Fat, and Urfa Chilli Toast is a sophisticated dish that balances the raw, fresh quality of steak tartare with aromatic leek, savory beef fat, and the smoky warmth of urfa chili on toasted bread.

Complement your main with Crispy Potatoes drizzled in a flavorful yeast sauce, providing a delightful texture and umami-rich savoriness to round out your plate.

Desserts

The sweet finishes at Erst impress with elegant and inventive desserts. The Olive-Oil Cake with Ricotta Ice Cream and Candied Citron presents a moist, fragrant cake paired with creamy ricotta ice cream and bright, candied citrus notes for a refreshing finale.

For nut lovers, the Almond and Hazelnut Tart with Orange and Rhubarb offers a delightful combination of crunchy nuts and tart fruitiness that perfectly balances richness and acidity. Alternatively, indulge in the Caramelised Bread and Bay Parfait with Cedro, a sophisticated dessert featuring caramelized bread flavors, aromatic bay parfait, and the unique citrus essence of cedro.

Drinks and Specials

Erst complements its vibrant menu with an excellent selection of natural wines, craft beers, and expertly made cocktails that enhance the dining experience. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxed lunch or a special dinner, the thoughtfully curated drinks list offers something for every palate.

Seasonal small plates designed for sharing and inspired by Mediterranean, European, and Middle Eastern cuisines.
Distinctive flatbreads that feature inventive toppings such as whipped lardo and garlic herb butter.
Bold, expertly cooked mains including lamb belly skewers, onglet steak, and delicate steak tartare.
Delightful desserts featuring olive-oil cake, nutty tarts, and rich parfaits to satisfy your sweet tooth.