Updated on 10 December 2020
With places to eat on every corner of this charming city, it can be tricky to narrow things down. As we’re very much of the opinion that there is truly nothing sadder than a disappointing meal, we wanted to take the guess work out of things, with our succinct round up of the top restaurants in Bath. For high flying fine dining there is The Olive Tree (which holds Bath’s only much-coveted Michelin star), while elsewhere there are plenty of delicious spots that won’t break the bank but provide a cosy spot to enjoy a bite to eat with friends or family. If you’re lucky, you’ll be in town for a few days – or call this pretty place home - so you don’t have to limit yourself to just one choice.
As you may know, Bath has become synonymous with hen parties in recent years, so if you’re looking for somewhere nice to host a group for the evening, lots of our favourite restaurants in bath put on great set menus for larger tables, so make sure to ask if you’re planning a party and there’s one that takes your fancy.
Each of the summaries below click through to a full review where you can read in more depth about your favourites before booking a table.
5-8 Saville Row, Bath, BA1 2QP
There’s not much that can go wrong when your offering is expertly sourced bottles of wine accompanied by small sharing plates. Think crisp courgette fritti and aioli, steak tartare or an indulgent mixed charcuterie board.
2 Wellsway, Bath, Somerset, BA2 3AQ
An early adopter of the ‘blind’ tasting menu, chef Gordon Jones has always been keen to excite guests through his cooking. Expect edgy plates, like a ‘cappuccino’ of wild mushroom mousse with smoked milk foam.
Weston Road, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2XT
Just a mile from the city centre, this restaurant is worth the walk (and dare we say working up an appetite is no bad thing). Plates are pretty as a picture, while interiors are classic.
Hunstrete House, Pensford, Radstock, Bath, Somerset, BS39 4NS
The Pig hotels are quirky and creative, with the restaurants following suit. While this is a little way outside the city, it makes a lovely place to retreat to following a busy day of sight-seeing.
4 Saville Row, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2QP
Henry’s serves plates of modern European fare in stripped back surrounds for a meal that is in equal parts laid back and luxurious. A dedicated vegetarian menu allows enjoyable dining for all in mixed groups.
14-16 The Corridor, Bath, Somerset, BA1 5AP
There are some situations where only a pizza will do, and the best place for that in Bath is at Dough. These handmade, artisan pizzas are topped with premium ingredients like Neapolitan yellow tomato sauce.
35 Marlborough Buildings, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2LY
For a cosy pub lunch, this is the perfect venue. You’ll find named suppliers on the menu, with plates of hearty ingredient focused fare like chargrilled pigeon or Cornish mackerel with salsa verde on offer.
2 North Parade Passage, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1NX
What started as a supper club in London has morphed into a permanent restaurant in Bath. Despite the change of location, the premise remains the same - quality ingredients served simply at a fair price point.
Queensberry Hotel, 4-7 Russell Street, Bath , Somerset, BA1 2QF
Holding Bath’s only Michelin star, this is the most luxurious dining experience in the city. Imaginative and exciting cooking comes by way of a five- or seven-course tasting menu, and wine pairings are also available.
34 Brock Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2LN
Recognised by Michelin, this sweet local spot is a favourite of visitors and residents alike. During the day the space offers bargain lunches and afternoon tea, while in the evening it has a bistro vibe.
15a George Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2EN
With a chef patron who comes from a Michelin background, this elegant Bath restaurant offers diners smart, seasonal combinations. Make time for pre-dinner cocktails before tucking into dishes like crab with asparagus and lemon mayonnaise.
39 Milsom Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1DS
The Ivy Brasseries are synonymous with glitz and glamour, and the Bath outpost is no different. Crowd-pleasing international favourites are served in a high-ceilinged traditional dining room filled with botanical prints and plush velvet furnishings.
Lucknam Park, Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 8AZ
This is another slightly outside of Bath, but if you’re ready for a change of scene this opulent dining room makes a wonderful space to relax in, to enjoy all the trappings of fine-dining cookery.
7 St James's Parade, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1UL
Vibrant and fresh, the plates at Noya’s Kitchen are handmade to order. Here aromatic flavours are king, with pho, curries and small plates to choose from, while Friday nights bring a 5-course supper club menu.
22 Monmouth Place, Bath, Somerset, BA1 2AY
Proudly British and steeped in Nostalgia, The Scallop Shell in Bath serves up incredible seafood platters, fresh oysters and good old fish and chips – complete with homemade tartare sauce. This is perfect for family dining.
Feeling fancy? Why not try one of Bath's best afternoon teas
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