I know the thread is a bit old now but, like someone who mentioned it earlier on, I'd recommend American Soda too. My fiancee can't get enough of it and it's not ridiculously priced for most things. You can either have it delivered or visit the shop in Ashton under Lyne and buy things yourself there.
As for our favourite Manchester food and drink places, here's a few we like:
Food in the city centre: Croma (Italian), San Carlo (Italian), Bistro 1847 (Vegetarian/Vegan), Panama Hatty's (Mexican-ish, not US-style Mexican), Chaophraya (Thai), Akbars (Indian), Dimitri's (Greek)
Drinks in the city centre: Trof, Rain Bar, Oast House, Kyoto Lounge (a gaming bar!), Apotheca, Bank, The Bay Horse, The Liar's Club, The Briton's Protection, Odd
Food outside of the city centre: Lily's (vegetarian Indian, Ashton under Lyne), Yakisoba (Japanese, Chorlton), Puccini (Italian, Swinton), Yarra (Lebanese, Altrincham), Oriental Fire (Korean, Altrincham)
Drinks outside the city centre: Electrik (Chorlton), Lloyds (Chorlton), The Malt Shovels (Altrincham - £1.60ish a pint!)