25 Of The Very Best Restaurants In Bristol That You Have To Try (2024)

Bristol is known for many things. Balloons, Banksy, colourful houses and cider. But it’s also home to some of the most exciting restaurants in the UK. From bohemian Middle Eastern street food to fine dining Michelin stars, via cosy neighbourhood spots and cutting-edge eateries, there’s no doubt that Bristol holds some of the best restaurants for miles. Catering for all palettes, from Korean to French, veg-forward or a steakhouse, there’s something for everyone too. So check out our guide to the very best restaurants in Bristol that you have to try at least once in your life.

1. Paco Tapas

You can talk about the best restaurants in Bristol without mentioning its Michelin restaurants. Starting with the first of two in Bristol, Peter Sanchez-Iglesias’ Paco Tapas offers tapas-style dining as you’ve never had it before. Combining traditional Andalusian flavours with Peter’s signature flair, an ever-changing menu will leave you stunned with every bite. Expect everything from jamon croquetas to patatas bravas, duroc pork ribs to presa Iberica. Plus, in true tapas style, enjoy a carefully crafted sherry list. (Peter also ran another Michelin restaurant in Bristol, Casamia, until it closed in 2022. More on that later.)

Paco Tapas, 3 The General, Lower Guinea St, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6FU

2. Bulrush

The other Michelin restaurant among Bristol’s best restaurants, equally as exciting, is Bulrush. Standing above the very best restaurants in Bristol, this relaxed and cosy neighbourhood-style spot focuses on foraged and organic ingredients. Preserving and pickling also play a key role in a menu that takes maximum advantage of its seasonal ingredients. Blending Anglo-French cuisine with Japanese and Scandinavian influences, Bulrush’s tasting menus range from six courses to nine.

Bulrush, 21 Cotham Rd S, Cotham, Bristol BS6 5TZ

3. Wilson’s

While Wilson’s doesn’t have a Michelin star, it does have a Michelin Green Star – awarded to the best restaurants at the forefront of sustainability. Its farm-to-table ethos sees all its vegetables, fruits and herbs grown in its own nearby ‘no-dig farm’. While co-founders, Jan Ostle and Mary Wilson, only work with local producers and traders that use ethical and low-impact methods for everything else.

Weekly changing, hyper-seasonal menus are based entirely on what is growing and ready to be harvested. Creating a six-course set menu for £60 and a, great value, lunchtime ‘menu du jour’ for £25 that includes a glass of wine. And what happens to the food left over at the end of the week? Well, that’s used up in bread and bakery items for Wilson’s Bread Shop.

Wilson’s, 24 Chandos Rd, Redland, Bristol BS6 6PF

4. Root

It’s pretty easy being vegan or vegetarian these days, particularly in Bristol. But you won’t find somewhere better at making vegetables the star ingredient than at Root in Wapping Wharf. The modern, veg-led eatery has an ethos of ‘more veg, less meat’ and was even nominated as the UK’s best vegan-friendly restaurant in 2023.

Specialising in small plates, not everything is completely vegan. Expect cheeses and other dairy products, some fish and meat too. But due to the stunning simplicity of the menu, many dishes can easily be altered. From grilled courgette ragu to confit tomatoes, tempura spring onions and jerk carrots, Root can make these veggies sing.

Root, Unit 9 Cargo 1, Gaol Ferry Steps, Bristol BS1 6WP

5. Casa

As we mentioned before, Peter Sanchez-Iglesias used to hold another Michelin star in the shape of Casamia until it suddenly closed in 2022. It didn’t take long for its spiritual successor, Casa, to pop up in its place and make us forget all about it. With a laidback and relaxed mood (compared to the former’s darkly painted, almost oppressive, atmosphere), Casa puts the focus all on the food.

The tapas-style Italian menu’s fresh pasta is the clear highlight; the potato ravioli with mushroom ragu and brown butter double agnolotti are musts. But everything from the rich and heavy braised beef cheek or leek gratinata, to the slight and delicate caponata or fried semolina are spectacular. Read our review here.

Casa, The General, Lower Guinea Street, Bristol, BS1 6FU

6. Baba Ganoush Kitchen – Jerusalem Falafel

Just because somewhere offers cheap eats doesn’t mean it can’t stand among the best. Baba Ganoush Kitchen – Jerusalem Falafel in St Paul’s has the best falafel in Bristol, award-winning too as the colourful graffiti on the exterior so proudly states. (You won’t be able to miss this funky and vibrant location.) Specialising in vegan and vegetarian Middle Eastern food, grab a Lebanese flatbread crammed with freshly made falafel and plenty of extras for something hearty. Or choose a handful of mezze dishes such as hummus, moussaka or dolmade for something lighter.

Baba Ganoush Kitchen – Jerusalem Falafel, 81 St Nicholas’ Rd, St Paul’s, Bristol BS2 9JJ

7. The Chef’s Table

Situated next to the harbour, with views of Clifton and the estuary, you’ll struggle to find a better table in Bristol. But it’s not outside you’ll find yourself gawping at. The Chef’s Table uniquely features viewing windows and cameras straight into the kitchen, so you can see all your dishes being created in front of you too. The 38-cover, Michelin-approved restaurant offers both an a la carte and seven-course tasting menu (£89.50), which changes every two months to reflect the season’s best local produce

The Chef’s Table, 1a Avon Cres, Bristol BS1 6XQ

8. Little Hollows

It’s not always easy finding Michelin quality while ‘on a budget‘ among the best restaurants in Bristol. So do not skip over Bristol’s number-one pasta spot, Little Hollows. At this neighbourhood spot in Redland, the pasta is made fresh each morning and then hung to dry in the window. (Which adds a certain cosy charm that can’t be replicated by bigger spots.) But it’s what Little Hollows doe with its unique artisan pasta creations that really counts. With bold, rich and authentic flavours, there’s no better pasta in Bristol.

Little Hollows, 26 Chandos Rd, Redland, Bristol BS6 6PF

9. Muiño

Honestly, so many restaurants on Cotham Hill could feature among the best restaurants in Bristol. (Apologies to all the excellent Elia, Bravas, Rock Salt and more.) But if we are to name only one more on this street for foodies, it has to be Muiño. This family-run business is inspired by the relaxed culture of Galicia in the Northwest of Spain, with a tapas selection of dishes. A light and airy atmosphere makes it ideal for handing out and dining on a sunny afternoon.

Muiño, 32 Cotham Hill, Redland, Bristol BS6 6LA

10. Tare

Tare opened in 2017 with the launch of Cargo 2’s shipping containers, with the 20-cover restaurant offering a six-course tasting menu of global dishes made from high-quality West Country ingredients. Charming and cosy, it can only seat up to 18 people but is well worth squeezing into. If fine dining isn’t your thing (it isn’t for everyone), then check out Tare Bistro next door. Opening late last year, this more relaxed concept offers small plates and affordable natural wines.

Tare, 14 Museum St, Bristol BS1 6ZA

11. Tomo No Ramen

Until about a decade ago, few Bristolians had heard about the Japanese noodle dish, ramen. Now this savoury bowl of noodle soup, with mouthwatering toppings, is at the top of many people’s weekly cravings. Tomo No Ramen, meaning “friend’s ramen”, offers a fun and friendly atmosphere in Old Market. Topped with Bristol’s best ramen. With a balance of classic recipes and new styles, head chef and Bristol native James Stuart whips up a seasonal menu that uses local ingredients. Expect powerful flavours and heartwarming broths. Vegetarian and vegan options are always available too.

Tomo No Ramen, 55 West St, Bristol BS2 0BZ

12. Sonny Stores

If your looking for the best restaurants in South Bristol, this rather unassuming, husband-and-wife-team spot in Southville is a great place to start. It specialises in offering a delicious range of seasonal Italian food. Described as “a fun, optimistic space for the community to enjoy.” Sonny Stores can sort you out whether popping in for a quick lunchtime bowl of pasta, or you’re more in the mood for a leisurely and romantic three-course meal and a bottle of organic wine.

While a seasonal menu changes regularly, an idea of what Sonny Stores serves includes: zucchini cappellacci, pecorino sardo; farinata, charred friggitelli peppers, borlotti beans; pappardelle, chicken livers, 24-month aged parmesan; and dover sole, broad beans sott’olio, anchovy, rosemary. You also find Italian classics like pizza and tiramisu.

Sonny Stores, 47 Raleigh Rd, Southville, Bristol BS3 1QS

13. Pizzarova

There’s going to be a lot of debate about the best pizza restaurants in Bristol is. But if we had to choose just one spot (don’t fight us), it has to be Pizzarova. The Bristol-born pizzeria has taken the city by storm with locations all over now. Using a starter that has been fed for over 70 years, its slowly fermented sourdough gives its puffed-up pizza crusts a distinct and moreish taste.

The Margherita deluxe is ultra-cheesy and has a chilli flake kick; the double chorizo and hot honey has that perfect sweet and salty combo; while Bristol vegans should enjoy the homemade vegan nduja, with toasted sunflower seed pesto and vegan cheese pizza. But you can always craft your own! To choose one, we love the spot on North Street, but locations at Wapping Wharf, Gloucester Road and Park Street are equally great.

Pizzarova, 237 North Street, Bristol BS3 1JJ

14. The Lido

The oldest surviving heated pool in the country, The Lido offers Mediterranean vibes near Whiteladies Road in Clifton. But the onsite restaurant is just as exciting. Don’t worry, you won’t get splashed, while you eat – overlooking the pool, you actually dine up in the original viewing gallery. This is a relaxed and informal space too, with food cooked visibly in a roaring hot Italian clay oven. Why not go for a dip beforehand?

Lido, Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2BJ

15. Nadu

It’s said that Tamil cuisine is based on the concept that food shapes the personality, mood, and mind. We reckon you’ll leave Nadu full, refreshed and rejuvenated. Stokes Croft is overflowing with amazing eateries, but above them, all stands Nadu. Using traditional Tamil techniques, it exclusively focuses on Sri Lanka and Tamil flavours – with a modern twist and a vibrancy that stretches from the décor to the food.

The melt-in-your-mouth black pork curry is a highlight, as is the vambatu noju made from aubergine and kokum. But we could not get enough of the rice pancakes (kal dosa) either. Nadu also specialises in rum-based co*cktails. Check out the Raksha co*cktail too, which packs such a punch that Nadu limits it to only two per person!

Nadu, 77-79 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3RD

16. BANK

Everything at BANK is cooked over a ‘live fire’. If that doesn’t get you excited to eat here, keep scrolling through the other best restaurants in Bristol. It’s not all show either, because the live fire cooking restaurant serves up some divine dishes too. It might use a primal way of cooking but BANK produces high-quality, modern food with family-style serving.

Expect a modern fusion of flavours, with recent dishes including, chicken thigh yakitori, duroc pork belly and Galician octopus, and bone marrow with oxtail rendang and pineapple salsa. The main focus is on creating a seasonal menu that reflects the best local produce. It also does a super special Sunday roast too.

BANK, 107 Wells Rd, Totterdown, Bristol BS4 2BS

17. COR

Even only a few months after opening COR was picking up awards. This tells you everything you need to know about this relaxed, neighbourhood restaurant in Bedminster. Known for vibrant, Mediterranean dishes, you can easily pop in for a glass of wine or some small dishes, a light lunch or a multi-course feast in the evening. Menu highlights included creamy burrata and crispy capers, barbecued cuttlefish with Calabrian ‘nduja, and a mushroom canele.

COR, 81 North St, Bedminster, Bristol BS3 1ES

18. Namak

At this award-winning Indian restaurant, the focus is more on meeting perfection rather than ripping up the rulebook. Namak has ended many people’s search for the best curry house in Bristol and it might end yours too. All the classics you know and love are here, from korma to tikka masala, but use only the finest fresh ingredients.

The menu travels the breadth of India too, meaning you can sample Goan fish curry next to a Kerala prawn and mango curry. But there are a few surprises, however. The lasooni deep-fried prawns, grilled scallops and chocolate samosas, for example, are all amazing.

Namak, 98 Mina Rd, St Werburgh’s, Bristol BS2 9XW

19. Marmo

Sat in the heart of Bristol (the former Guardian Assurance Building to be exact), Marmo is the perfect place to dine as you soak up the vibe of the city. A concise, yet punchy menu is flavour-packed Italian dishes – ranging from gnocco fritto and lasagnette to steak tartare. The Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant also doubles as a wine barm if you fancy just popping in for some nibbles and a glass (or two).

Marmo, 31 Baldwin Street, Bristol, BS1 1RG

20. Bokman

If your knowledge of Korean food stretches only as far as kimchi fries and bibimbap, then you’ll receive a good education at Bokman. From crispy-skinned chicken stuffed with sticky rice (tongdak) to beef short ribs braised in soy, pear and brown sugar (galbi stew), this is a real authentic Korean restaurant.

Other highlights in this bustling red-and-white restaurant include kimchi fried rice, crispy tempura chillis or spicy braised tofu. You can also grab a couple of Korea’s legendary fermented spirit soju while you’re here. Or finish your evening with soft-serve ice cream and a range of toppings.

Bokman, 3 Nine Tree Hill, Cotham, Bristol BS1 3SB

21. littlefrench

littlefrench really does add a little slice of France to the South West up in Westbury Park. The style combines a classic bistro with bohemia Bristol and suits all times – offering lunch and dinner, seven days a week. Sit at the bar with a glass of wine and some bar snacks (such as oysters with shallot vinegar or a5 wagyu and caviar) or tuck into the mouthwatering evening menu.

Full of things like: rare iberico pork bavette, spring greens, garlic & rosemary fried potatoes, sauce robert; cœur de bœuf tomato stuffed with wild rice, pesto dressing & sauce vierge; or confit duck leg, crushed new potatoes, green beans, grain mustard & crème fraîche sauce

littlefrench, 2 North View, Westbury Park, Bristol BS6 7QB

22. Cargo Cantina

Wapping Wharf is a foodie’s heaven with so many of the best restaurants in Bristol packed into these Cargo containers. The one place we keep returning to over everywhere else, however, is the taco bar Cargo Cantina. Inspired by the cantinas of Mexico City, snug and simple spot serves frozen margaritas and the tastiest tacos in town. Food is vibrant. Atmosphere too. Just don’t overdo it on the mezcal…

Cargo Cantina, 15 Cargo 2, Bristol BS1 6ZA

23. ABOE

Looking at the best restaurants in Bristol but can’t decide what to eat? Why not go somewhere you can have ‘a bit of everything’ on Whiteladies Road? The only sticking point at ABOE is that everything is sourced from local, ethical and sustainable producers. (Some ingredients are even grown on, Michelin-trained head chef and owner, Sebastian Murray’s family farm!) Expect fine dining sharing plates that see Seb fuse classical French cooking with south-east Asian influences.

On Sundays in particular, expect some of the most jaw-dropping roast dinners you’ll find in all of Bristol too. Choose between umami short rib, ponzu-glazed duck breast, or swede & turnip cake. All come with roast potatoes, cauliflower & broccoli cheese, braised red cabbage, sprouting broccoli, creamy leeks, carrots, parsnips, Yorkshire pudding and gravy. While the recently opened secret garden is perfect for summer.

ABOE, 109 Whiteladies Rd, Redland, Bristol BS8 2PB

24. Yafo

Adding a taste of Tel Aviv to South Bristol, Yafo has become well-known for its falafel and hummus-based-dishes. This plant-based restaurant provides a relaxed and modern atmosphere. Perfect for brunch, lunch or dinner. The classic falafel pita is served crammed with flavour and salad. But on repeat visits, switch things up with vegan schnitzel, fried cauliflower or stuffed malawach. Or you can also choose a simple falafel salad box.

Also on the breakfast menu, you’ll find, the North African and Middle Eastern classic Shakshuka, an Israeli fry-up or a simple bowl of granola. In the late afternoon, choose from a beautiful selection of sharing plates, including filo cigars stuffed with Balkan cheese, vegan kofta, halloumi and za’atar flatbreads. Just save some room for the traditional homemade treats like maamoul.

Yafo, 238 North St, Southville, Bristol BS3 1JD

25. The Blaise Inn

A pub? Yes, but not just any pub, The Blaise Inn is a stone’s throw from the Blaise Castle Estate – ideal for a meal after visiting the breathtaking parklands. But we haven’t chosen it for location, location, location alone. Traditional British fare, with a fresh modern take, makes The Blaise Inn – and at good value too – have seen it pick up a Bib Gourmand. It’s also home to one of the best Sunday roasts in Bristol.

Blaise Inn, 260 Henbury Road, City of Bristol, BS10 7QR

We’re sure some of you are screaming at us right now, what about this place, what about that? Bristol is full of incredible eateries everywhere you turn – many we’ve still yet to learn about – with more popping up every day. But hopefully, this guide to the best restaurants in Bristol keeps you satiated for now.