Best restaurants in Bristol

Bristol is an incredible city. Initially this south-western spot was known for its famous suspension bridge, iconic music scene and street art, but in recent years it has become just as well renowned for its restaurant scene, now being home to some of the best eateries in the UK. Banksy's hometown has seen a torrent of new spots opening in the last 5 years, and now that the torrent has slowed down to a steady and delicious stream, we thought it would be a good time to compile a list of the best restaurants in Bristol. It's been incredibly tasty work; you can thank us later.

Updated on 04 February 2020

Bristol was named the coolest city in Europe in 2018 and someone - with a lot of time on their hands - has worked out that over three Londoners up sticks and move to Bristol every single day. So, it’s fair to say that the largest city in the south west has set some high expectations. As we do, we just had to explore the foodie scene here to see what it's all about and it definitely did not disappoint.

There are a lot of draws pulling us towards Bristol. It's an incredibly vibrant and multicultural city with the allure of the beach and the countryside on its doorstep, so it's not hard to see why it is the place to be. Sprinkle in some of the best restaurants in the country and were packing our bags.

Whether you’re on the lookout for award winning dining, new foodie finds, quirky venues, authentic food or intimate, family run restaurants, Bristol has exactly what you are looking for.

Our list of the best restaurants in Bristol hosts our thoughts on menu items, price, restaurant decor and ambience and (of course) the all-important taste test. Our honest reviews mean you won't miss a trick when choosing your next meal. 

Any Bristolian's who already know the scene well please let us know what you think the best restaurant is, and you never know, it might be added to our list for other lucky people to explore. Contact us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter.

Poco Bristol

Poco Bristol

45 Jamaica Street, Stokes Croft, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BS2 8JP

Renowned Tom Hunt is the executive chef at award winning Poco tapas. Thanks to cratefulls of locally sourced produce, an open kitchen and communal tables, Poco is one of the most inviting restaurants in Bristol.
Tapas
Spanish
Book now
Riverstation

Riverstation

1 The Grove, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BS1 4RB

This former police headquarters hosts incredible view across the harbour. The extended dockside terrace offers unrivalled alfresco eating in the city while you can expect a warm welcome and a cool, laid back atmosphere.
Under £30
Modern European
Book now
Bravas

Bravas

7 Cotham Hill, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BS6 6LD

Allow the husband and wife team of Bravas to take you on a tour of Spain, via Bristol, if you will. They take the authenticity of their dishes very seriously, taking their staff to Spain yearly for research. Where do we apply for jobs? 
Under £30
Tapas
Spanish
Book now
The Ethicurean

The Ethicurean

The Ethicurean, Barley Wood Walled Garden, Long Lane, , Bristol, BS40 5SA

Potentially the most famous restaurant in Bristol, The Ethicurean puts vegetables at the centre of its serves. This modern model has proven so successful that the team have replicated their restaurant in a Cornish site.
£30 - £49
British
Book now
The Spiny Lobster Seafood Grill

The Spiny Lobster Seafood Grill

128-130 Whiteladies Road, Bristol, Bristol, BS8 2RS

Dubbed the best seafood in Bristol, The Spiny Lobster serves a daily changing menu dependant on the fisherman's catch of the day. The spoils of this catch are then cooked on an open fire - from the sea straight to your plate, quite literally.
£30 - £49
British
Fish
Book now
The Ox

The Ox

The Basement, 43 Corn Street, Bristol, Bristol, BS1 1HT

The team behind renowned bars Hyde & Co and The Milk Thistle also head up The Ox. With seasonally evolving menus, incredible cocktails and loud music, this hidden basement is the place for a late night steak soiree.
£30 - £49
Steak
British
Book now
Bulrush Restaurant

Bulrush Restaurant

21 Cotham Road South, Bristol, Bristol, BS6 5TZ

George Livsey’s spin on seasonal British dining makes this spot perennially popular. This Michelin Starred restaurant may be neatly tucked away but is by no means hiding. Everyone in Bristol has visited or wants to.
£50 - £79
British
One Michelin star
Book now
Casamia

Casamia

The General, Bristol, Bristol, BS1 6FU

Though this hugely impressive harbour-side restaurant is located in the old Hospital building there are sure to be no casualties in the stylish Michelin starred dining room. With space for just 35 diners and restricted opening hours this ambitious eatery is one of the hottest tickets in town.
£50 - £79
Modern European
One Michelin star
SquareMeal UK Top 100
Book now
Tare

Tare

Unit 14, Museum Street, Bristol, BS1 6ZA

A small restaurant with a big identity. Tare is a 22 cover restaurant situated on Bristol’s harbour-side development inside an unassuming shipping container. This is incredible food with real finesse with none of the pomposity.
£30 - £49
Modern European
Book now
Thali

Thali

166 Old Brompton Road, London, London, SW5 0BA

Starting life as a food truck at Glastonbury festival, Thali has come along way but kept its cool roots. It offers a taste of everyday Indian food with a laid back atmosphere and we want more.
£30 - £49
Indian
Book now
The Lido Restaurant

The Lido Restaurant

Oakfield Place, Clifton, Bristol, Gloucestershire, BS8 2BJ

Sit poolside in this picturesque lido restaurant (yes, we're still in Bristol) and dive into fuss free, Mediterranean inspired food. Alternatively, throw yourself into the deep end with an early swim followed by a delicious brunch. Memberships or one off visits available.
£30 - £49
Mediterranean
Book now

Looking for even more fine dining inspiration (who isn't)? Check our our list of the best Michelin star restaurants in London

More restaurant recommendations

List Grid

List Grid

Test List

Test List

TestList2

TestList2

list test1

list test1

Join SquareMeal Rewards

Collect points, worth at least £1, every time you book online and dine at a participating restaurant.

Start Collecting Points

Already a member? Sign in