Chakalaka

Chakalaka, an authentic South African restaurant located in Manchester, is quickly becoming a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Customers rave about the vibrant atmosphere, particularly in the serene garden area that feels like an oasis amidst the city buzz. J Mints praises the delightful cocktails, especially during happy hour, alongside a menu that offers a fantastic range of dishes including the beloved bunny chow and mouthwatering chicken wings.

Those seeking a taste from home, like Shelley Slade, highlight the warmth and friendly service, enhancing the overall dining experience. The menu is rich with South African favorites, making it ideal for sharing. Connie Richardson expresses joy over the unique Monkey Gland sauce, which adds an intriguing twist to classic dishes.

Chakalaka stands out not only for its flavorful dishes but also for the value it offers. As L B notes, the generous portions are both satisfying and affordable, making it an excellent choice for a hearty meal without breaking the bank. Overall, Chakalaka is celebrated as a hidden gem, perfect for anyone craving delicious, authentic South African cuisine in a welcoming setting. Don't miss out on this culinary treasure during your next visit to Manchester!

Accessibility
- Has wheelchair-accessible seating
- No wheelchair-accessible entrance
- No wheelchair-accessible toilet
Service options
- Has outdoor seating
- Offers delivery
- Offers takeaway
- Serves dine-in
Highlights
- Has great beer selection
- Serves great cocktails
Popular for
- Popular for lunch
- Popular for dinner
- Good for solo dining
Offerings
- Serves alcohol
- Serves beer
- Serves cocktails
- Serves coffee
- Has free water refills
- Serves happy-hour drinks
- Serves late-night food
- Quick bite
- Serves small plates
- Serves spirits
- Serves vegan dishes
- Serves vegetarian dishes
- Serves wine
Dining options
- Serves lunch
- Serves dinner
- Serves dessert
- Has seating
Amenities
- Has bar on site
- Has gender-neutral toilets
- Has toilet
Atmosphere
- Casual
- Cosy
- Trendy
Crowd
- Family friendly
- Good for groups
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Popular with tourists
- Transgender safe space
Planning
- Dinner reservations recommended
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Accepts credit cards
- Accepts debit cards
- Accepts NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs available
Parking
- Paid parking lot
Pets
- Dogs allowed

J Mints

Jul 2,2025

I have been here multiple times over the last few years and if never disappoints. In fact, if anything, it gets better and better. We sat this time outside the back in their garden and it was a great, intimate oasis in the middle of a busy city. Cocktails were delicious, properly made and not watery - and during happy hour, an absolute bargain! The food was divine, tried something I've never had here before and loved it just as much as other things I've had. Pudding was also divine- the chocolate peppermint and caramel pot, yum yum. The staff were all super friendly and helpful and there was no pressure to leave our table once we had finished eating. Not to mention the price - such excellent value for money. I'm never disappointed and I will continue to make this my number 1 choice for a meal out whenever I visit Manchester.

Shelley Slade

Jun 30,2025

So happy to have found this restaurant in Manchester! It was amazing to have a taste from home: I had a pap and boerie and a milktart for dessert. The staff were really kind and friendly. There was a good selection of South African foods and drinks on the menu.

Connie Richardson

Jun 14,2025

The burger and the chicken wings were amazing. It’s a great place for a late dinner and the staff are super friendly. Don’t be put off by the name of the Monkey Gland sauce- it’s actually really good!

thehungrygirl

Jun 1,2025

i came here as a follow on from a bottomless brunch and sat in the terrace/garden area as it was lovely and sunny! they have a lovely selection of drinks and very flavourful food options that are perfect for sharing!

L B

May 21,2025

Great place tucked away on the edge of the NQ. I think it’s a true hidden gem of Manchester, it’s been here for some time but you never hear it mentioned much (wrongly so!). Serving up South African vibes the food here was awesome, cheap and heavy portions! A huge menu to choose from but it was all delicious from what we tried, the bunny chow is a must try if you’ve not had it before served in have a loaf of soft bread. We’ll definitely be back and you should absolutely try this place for a fun but filling meal without denting your wallet.

Matt H

Apr 16,2025

Absolutely amazing find. 50% off mains Monday-Wednesday and 2 for 10 cocktails for happy hour. The food was incredible and the service was excellent. If I didn't live far away i would come here every week. My partner and I had 4 cocktails, starters, mains, and dessert for a combined 57 and both went home with a box thanks to the generous portions. We had ridiculous value for money (in the best possible way)!!

Lisa Young

Mar 13,2025

Holy cow! Where has Chalalaka been all my life? If you want flavour come here! At our table we had the pulled beef brisket sandwich, lekker ribs and bangers and pap. Not one negative remark around our table. Just disbelief that our tastebuds were raving. I don’t usually eat pasta but their mac and cheese was so yummy! I don’t think you can go wrong with anything on their menu. Those ribs were to die for.. melt in your mouth. I went crazy for them as you can tell with the after math. Highly, highly recommend! Visit this place, you won’t be sorry! Still dreaming of their food..

Mark Goodger

Mar 7,2025

This is competition for Nandos. Enjoyed the food before we headed to a comedy eve over road. Tasty. Service was all ok. In a smallish venue where everybody is enjoying themselves.

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