Manchega - Ripon

The service at this restaurant is top-notch, the food is absolutely delicious, the staff is warm and welcoming, and the ambiance is delightful! I have dined here numerous times and will definitely be back again.

What a let down. Many great reviews but tucked in amongst them are some telling ones which match our experience. We had a reservation for 8pm. On arrival there was a short delay before we were shown to a table in a small ish back room. We were the only group in that room, the table was not set and the room was functional at best, completely lacking in the atmosphere and cosiness of the down stairs area and front room. (Note to owner if you're going to use this room then (a keep it decorated and tables laid and (b put either a larger group in it or two groups. We waited, and waited ..... and waited some more. Eventually one of us grabbed the waiter as he passed and requested the menus. These duly arrived. The waiter gave us a lengthy description of the specials and other dishes and we felt that things might improve. We asked to order our drinks and the waiter said he would come back to do that. We waited, and waited.... and waited some more. Half an hour later we still had no drinks, our order had not been taken and the table was still unlaid. We left. No acknowledgement from the waiter as we went. No apology. Nothing.

We have recently moved to the area and have visited the restaurant a few times but only for drinks in the summer where we sat outside. This was the first time we have eaten here and we were not disappointed. Quirky restaurant with so much character and a great atmosphere. The service was good and staff took time to explain all the dishes available on the menu. The food was freshly cooked and authentic. The rump steak churrasco was beautiful as was the deep fried feta! We will be returning. Delicious food and great service, what’s not to like!

Manchega is a great little restaurant in the heart of Ripon. We recently met up mid week with friends and had a wonderful time enjoying the flavours of Spain. All dishes were prepared with lots of skill and care and we fully enjoyed our experience. Many thanks to the team who were also very accommodating when our bus was delayed by 25 min, making us arrive late for our booking. We phoned ahead and it was no problem at all.

Went to Ripon for the weekend with friends and had researched places to eat. As someone who doesn't eat meat quite often tapas is a bit disappointing, but Manchega looked interesting with dishes I'd not heard of before. Not a massive choice, but that's because they specialise in certain dishes- specialise being the word. For one, this place felt like being in Spain, not North Yorkshire. Great atmosphere, great music, and friendly, lovely, relaxed, cool service. For two, the food is superb. Amazing flavour mixes, such as chilli crab nachos, deep fried feta with honey (I hate feta, my wife said I needed to try it- ended up ordering some more), and a brilliant wine list. For three, one of the party ordered a sherry at the end of the meal. I can't stand sherry but much like the feta I gave it a go- and much like the feta ended up drinking more. It was glorious. And when the bill came, we all guessed the amount and got it wrong as it was cheaper than we had all guessed. If you're in Ripon, indeed if you're in Yorkshire, and fancy tapas with a twist, pay Manchega a visit. And have the sherry.