Third Floor Rising: Comfort Food Meets Conscious Choices
If you’re searching for a cosy Manchester café that blends hearty food, vintage style and sustainability, look no further than Third Floor Rising. Tucked away on the third floor of Manchester’s iconic Affleck’s Palace, it’s a landmark loved by generations of locals and visitors alike.
Created by husband-and-wife duo Tom and Sarah, Third Floor Rising serves up British classics all day long. Think fry ups, breakfast rolls, homemade pies, toasties, and cakes that bring comfort and nostalgia in equal measure. Every visit feel like home.

A Café with Community at Its Heart
Tom and Sarah describe Affleck’s as “a family”, and the way they run their café really reflects this. From supporting fellow stallholders, to offering a welcoming space for shoppers, their sense of belonging really shines through.
And now, the café has gone one step further in supporting their community. They’re reducing single-use waste through BORRO’s returnable cup scheme. Proving that even small independent cafés can embrace innovation while staying true to their traditions.

Joining the BORRO Scheme
Third Floor Rising serves plenty to fuel Manchester’s busy shoppers and tourists throughout the day. By introducing BORRO returnable cups, they’re making it easier for customers to enjoy drinks on the go without the guilt of throwaway packaging, while also helping set a new standard for sustainable practice in one of Manchester’s most iconic spaces.
Sarah explains how the idea has been received:
“The cups have been a hit with other traders here in Affleck’s Palace. Even a few tourists passing through have loved the idea. It feels good to be part of something that’s making a difference in Manchester and part of something bigger.”
Independent cafés can help build a more sustainable Manchester. At the same time, they can keep the customer experience enjoyable and connected to local culture.
Looking Ahead
Third Floor Rising proves that sustainability doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort, tradition, or character. Their menu of homemade food, retro charm, and practical reuse solutions all work together in harmony. With this balance of old and new, they’re shaping a future where community and sustainability go hand in hand. Helping to ensure that Manchester’s café culture continues to evolve in inspiring ways.