The amount of restaurant units in Manchester now stands at over 150, led by significantly strong growth from upmarket and casual dining operators which have doubled their supply in the city acros the last five year period, according to international real estate advisor Savills.

In the last four years, 30 new restaurant brands in these two categories have opened in the city, with 14 arriving since the start of this year, according to the group’s analysis. El Gato Negro, Grafene and Busaba are some of the restaurants included in the new arrivals over the last year.

The new restaurants will form part of a wider thriving leisure scene in the city. Savills’ analysis of the city centre has shown there are now over 540 leisure units, including restaurants, bars, cafes, cinemas and other entertainment venues.

Looking away from restaurants to consider the leisure sector on the whole, a total of 70 new operators have arrived in the city over the last four years, including 26 which have opened in 2016.

Increasing demand for restaurant space has increased top rents in prime flagship locations to £40-50 per sq ft (£430-538 per sq m) in the third quarter of 2016, in comparison with £30-£40 per sq ft (£323-£431 per sq m) five years ago.

John Agnew, retail and leisure director at Savills, said: “Manchester continues to be a major dining and leisure destination, and the city’s offer has grown significantly in recent years. Our analysis shows that aspirational brands feel at home in Manchester, with many new operators arriving to offer both casual dining and more upmarket experiences. There is truly something to suit every wallet and taste.”

Savills says Deansgate, the Corn Exchange, Spinningfields, Piccadilly and King Street are among the most attractive locations in the city for major restaurant operators, while independent venues continue to favour the Northern Quarter.