As far as I'm aware (and I may be wrong), they fire up the steam engines most days. Just don't get there too early as they don't really start running until a few hours after they open.
As to bars well near Piccadilly Gardens there is:
- Bar Fringe in Swan Street - a bar selling English and Belgian beers as well as the ubiquitous larger.
- The Bull's Head - A traditional pub opposite Piccadilly railway station that has good real ale and a pleasant atmosphere
Near G-Mex which is two stops down the line on the Metro:
- The Pevril on the Peak - a really old fashioned pub that you have to see to believe. A great Selection of beers
- The Briton's Protection, which is near The Pevril on the Peak, another old fashioned pub with a good selection of ales and an even more extensive selection of Whisky.
- Cask, which is opposite the Museum of Science and Industry is another bar that sells a wide selection of beer, including Belgium and German beers in bottles.
As to restaurants. Well the obvious one to try is Live Bait in Albert Square. I recommend going here at lunch time an trying one of their offers as you'll save a lot of money, especially if you forgo the alcohol and opt for a pot of tea
If you fancy a Indian meal you might want to pop on a bus down to Rusholme to visit the curry mile which is quite an experience.
If you fancy a great Chinese visit China Town and the Yang Sing. One of the best Chinese meals I've ever had. Not cheap though. Pearl City is pretty good as well although not really in the Yang Sing's league.
I'm sure you can find more information about these places with a simple google search. However, if you want any more information then simply reply to this thread or PM me.
Brian