REVIEW – STRANGER THINGS CAFÉ MANCHESTER PRIMARK

Item: Stranger Things Café Manchester
Rating: 3.5
Author: Sarah Monaghan

Sarah Monaghan
17 hours ago
3 min read

Text reads "Primark Café with Stranger Things" and "Netflix" on a dark backdrop with red accents, creating a mysterious atmosphere.

Black background with "ALL ABOUT FUN" in white text. Below, four purple stars with one half-highlighted, indicating a rating. Bright, vibrant mood.

Step Into the Upside Down – A Fun Experience for Stranger Things Fans 👾⭐

On Wednesday 5th November, my husband Lawrence and I visited the newly opened Stranger Things Café inside The Manchester Primark on Market Street, and it was like stepping straight into Hawkins! From Scoops Ahoy to Benny’s Burgers, the café’s eerie red-and-black theming made it a must-see for any fan of the hit Netflix series.

While the atmosphere was spot-on and full of photo opportunities, we did find the menu smaller than previous Primark pop-ups, with only themed food and no regular café items available. Still, it’s a fun little pit stop for a bite to eat and some Stranger Things magic before you continue shopping.

Large mural of five characters from "Stranger Things" in intense poses, with bold red and black colors. People sit at tables below.

👀 Theming – Welcome to Hawkins!

The Stranger Things Café makes an immediate impression from the moment you see its bold red-and-black “Welcome to Hawkins” archway. Inside, the space feels like a crossover between a retro diner and a fan exhibit, with large murals that dominate the walls.

One wall features a striking image of the Demogorgon, while another showcases the main characters in a bold, comic-style illustration. The design choices make it clear that the theme is the star of the show.

Seating includes light-wood tables with white metal chairs and stools, plus padded benches along the mural walls for a relaxed café feel. The décor is mostly neutral — light walls, pale wood flooring, and white furnishings — which allows the dramatic Stranger Things visuals to really stand out.

The counter area is bright and clean, featuring a large digital menu board, near the counter, you’ll find small themed props and display items, adding subtle touches of Hawkins charm without overwhelming the space. The atmosphere feels friendly and approachable rather than spooky, making it suitable for families and casual fans alike.

Coffee shop with white brick wall and Stranger Things menu above counter. Two workers assist with snacks. Neon red design on counter.

Café with "Stranger Things" wall art, a person in red seated, another taking a photo. Bright, modern decor with posters on white brick.

🌭 Stranger Things Café Menu – Simple, Themed, and Tasty 🍟

The menu at the Stranger Things Café keeps things simple, serving up American-style comfort food inspired by Hawkins’ favourite hangouts.

We opted for the Hot Dog Meal Deal (£9.95), which included a juicy hot dog, crispy Totside Down tater tots, and a can of drink. For dessert, we shared a generous slice of Red Velvet Chocolate Fudge Cake (£4.50) – rich, moist, and absolutely delicious. It definitely felt like something Eleven herself might indulge in after a long day fighting monsters! The food was simple but tasty, ideal for a quick themed lunch or family stop-off while shopping.

Hot dog with crispy onions in a Stranger Things-themed box, beside a cup of golden tater tots on a wooden table at Primark Café.

Slice of red velvet cake with cream frosting on a white plate. A wooden fork rests nearby. Warm, wooden table background.

The full menu features:

🍔 Benny’s Diner Burger (£6.50)

🍕 Surfer Boy Margherita Twist (£5.50)

🌭 American Hot Dog (£5.95)

🥔 Totside Down Tater Tots / Cheesy Tots (from £3.95)

And from Scoops Ahoy, you can grab milkshakes in classic flavours – Strawberry, Chocolate, and Vanilla – or the ultimate themed treat: “The Void”, a black vanilla shake topped with cream, Oreo crumb, and gummy sweets (£4.95).

While the menu is more limited than some of Primark’s previous themed cafés, everything we tried was nicely presented, and served with a smile. The staff were friendly and welcoming, and service was quick.

Primark Stranger Things Cafe menu - listing food and prices

💀 Final Thoughts – A Fun Flashback for Fans 🎬✨

The Stranger Things Café at Manchester Primark is a fun, nostalgic stop for any fan of the show. The design is spot-on, the staff are friendly, and there are plenty of great selfie spots to capture the Hawkins magic. While we’d have loved a slightly bigger menu or a few non-themed options, it’s still a tasty and enjoyable treat for the price. The décor strikes the right balance — bold enough to impress fans but welcoming for families too. It’s a total gimmick – but a good one!

If you’re shopping in Manchester and fancy a little trip to Hawkins, grab your camera, order some Totside Down, and enjoy a slice of the Upside Down — a simple but satisfying themed stop that’s well worth a visit.