First Table app launching in Manchester that gives you 50% off food - all the restaurants signed up

A new app is launching in Manchester next week that allows diners to discover new restaurants and get 50% off their food.

First Table, which was introduced to the UK in 2018, is already up and running in six cities globally, including London, Bristol and Birmingham in the UK.

It is designed to encourage people to try out new restaurants and also help those restaurants fill tables during off-peak hours. Some of the participating restaurants announced for Manchester include Kala and Hispi.

How does First Table work and what’s on offer?

The app will be free to download and will be available in Manchester from Monday 2 October. Users must first sign up to the app to become a member, which is also free. Diners can sign up now via the First Table website. It will be available on both Google Play and Apple App Store.

Once you’re signed up, users can browse the restaurants and make a reservation for early, off-peak times. It costs £6 to secure your booking, which also gives you 50% off the food bill. Drinks, however, will be at normal price. Bookings can be made for 2-4 people.

Which Manchester restaurants have signed up to First Table?

Some of the restaurants signed up in Manchester are: Fress (Northern Quarter), Sangam City (Piccadilly), Sangam Didsbury, Kala (King Street, city centre), Hispi (Didsbury), Masons Bar and Restaurant (city centre), Leno Ex Machina (Diecast, city centre), Firehouse (Ancoats) and Armenian Taverna (city centre).

More are expected to be announced as Birmingham currently has 33 venues signed up, Bristol has 65 and London has 196.

What do the owners say?

Mat Weir, CEO and founder of First Table, said: “"We are genuinely excited to bring First Table to Manchester, a city deeply rooted in its eclectic culinary heritage that ranges from classic British fare to modern global cuisines.

"Recognising Manchester’s blend of traditional eateries and contemporary bistros, our aspiration is to unite diners with the city’s diverse array of restaurants and encourage our foodies to try something new.

"As well as benefiting diners, our model works in partnership with Manchester’s restaurant industry, particularly during off-peak hours. Our partner restaurants don’t incur any fees to feature on our platform, allowing them an opportunity to attract new clientele and use their first table as a promotional tool. By filling otherwise empty tables, restaurants are creating a buzz early on in the service.”