Finding the best restaurants in Bristol

1. Bravas  

This small Spanish restaurant located between Clifton and the city centre is the perfect mix between the welcoming atmosphere of a local pub and the quality of food of an amazing restaurant. The menu changes daily at Bravas and always features delicious Spanish- inspired tapas made with fresh and seasonal products. You can either choose tapas and boards from their a la carte selection or opt for a tapas feast, which is priced at around £40 for two. Take a seat in the warmly-lit venue and watch your food be prepared in their open kitchen. You won’t get a front-row view like this in any other Bristol restaurant!  

2. Poco Tapas bar  

Looking for a Mediterranean, European, Spanish or British meal? Then look no further, as Poco offers them all. Thanks to its commitment to operating sustainably and using resources from small local food producers, Poco was named one of Britain’s most sustainable restaurants in 2016. They serve the best charcoal- grilled fish, meat and wraps all bursting with mouth-watering flavours! Just a short walk from Bristol Royal Infirmary, keep an eye out for any street art from the well-known Banksy on your way there.  

3. The Ox Bristol  

This stylish steak restaurant and cocktail bar is the perfect setting for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a quick mid-week nibble, an after- work meal or a venue for a very special occasion like a birthday, The Ox is the place to go. Hidden in the basement below The Commercial Rooms on Corn Street, you won’t struggle to find something that tickles your taste buds with their choice cuts of delicious steak. Cooked to perfection by the chefs in an iconic Josper oven, enjoy fruity cocktails, a simple glass of wine or a beer with your delectable meal. 

4. Rosemarino  

You can’t beat a lovely Italian restaurant, right? Rosemarino offers the best breakfast around and a scrumptious Italian feast! Open 6 days a week, you can stop for a bite to eat, a quick coffee break or a lovely sit-down meal. Awarded best Italian in 2013, 2014 and 2018, be sure to make Rosemarino a stop on your visit to Bristol. You’ll be delighted by their simple dishes made with only the best products, taking full advantage of seasonal ingredients. Why not visit Cabot Tower while you’re in this part of the city? It’s a 15 minute walk from Rosemarino down Lower Clifton Hill.  

5. Turtle Bay  

Spice things up a little and try eating at Turtle Bay on your visit to Bristol. Dive into this Jamaican restaurant and let your taste buds go wild with an exotic burst of flavours. And don’t forget the ... cocktails! Turtle Bay is known for their 2 for 1 cocktails deal, available every day of the week. Sit back and enjoy the creative atmosphere with a tasty meal and drink. Located right in the centre of Bristol, you can explore more of the city after a yummy lunch. It’s also the perfect starting point for a night out. 

6. Bosco Pizzeria  

Did someone say pizza? Authentic Italian pizza with real Italian ingredients? Located in the heart of Bristol, Bosco Pizzeria serves the classic Neapolitan pizzas that everyone loves. And they’re more than just a pizzeria. Take a seat and watch the wood -fire cook your delicious pizza, or give their fresh pasta and cured meats a try. Open 7 days a week from midday to late evening, the restaurant also offers a great selection of Italian wines.  

7. Las Iguanas – Harbourside  

During the day, Las Iguanas is the perfect place for some lunch and quality family time. By night… a real Latin spirit brings the place alive, making Las Iguanas the perfect location for special occasions, and big celebrations! Enjoy the freshly cooked food, tasty cocktails, and the view of the Harbourside. The restaurant is located right around the corner from Bristol Aquarium, and is kid-friendly too. So after an exciting day at the aquarium, why not take a seat outside in the sunshine, order a nice cool drink for the little ones and relax.  

8. The Square Kitchen  

Bursting with a lively atmosphere and a delicious seasonal menu, be sure to visit this hidden gem while in Clifton. This award-winning restaurant serves the most delicious food, and offers first-class service in fashionable surroundings. The menu is inspired by traditional British recipes, sourcing all ingredients from local produce. Located on Berkeley Square, The Square Kitchen is the ideal place to soak up some sun after your delicious meal and relax for a while longer before adventuring around the busy city. 

9. Racks Bar and Kitchen  

For 30 years Racks has been at the heart of Bristol's community, serving amazing food. One of Bristol's best party venues, this friendly restaurant and sports bar is available for private hire for birthdays, wedding receptions, and much more. It is known for the Racks burger, a delicious combination of Hereford beef, smoked Applewood Cheddar and dill pickle. The restaurant’s most famous meal is now available in a vegan version. It is also home to Bristol’s best Sunday roast. Whether you are looking for a delicious breakfast to kick- start your day, a relaxing lunch or romantic evening meal, Racks is the place to be.  

10. Three Brothers Burgers  

Offering a wide selection of juicy burgers and hotdogs, Three Brothers Burgers is the perfect place to enjoy tasty food, a beer and the views of the harbourside, all at the same time! All their burgers are made from 28- day aged prime Herefordshire beef. Except the veggie burgers of course… those are made with a succulent plant-based patty , that provides all the texture and flavour of a real burger! If burgers aren’t striking your fancy then take a look at all the other tasty treats they have on offer.  

11. Miller and Carter  

Miller and Carter is one of the best steakhouses in the area. 30- day aged British and Irish steaks, the finest burgers and their dreamy fish dishes are all on the menu. Just a short walk round the corner from Bristol Aquarium and Bristol Cathedral, Miller and Carter is in the heart of the city, making it easily accessible whatever your itinerary.   

12. Opa Restaurant and Bar  

Go to Opa and let the decor and family recipes transport you to the heart of Greece. The chefs cook their mothers’ recipes from all over Greece, using the best local and Greek ingredients to create outstanding meals. This is a place where memories are created, laughter echoes, and great food is served. Here it’s about more than the food, it’s about coming together to exchange thoughts and feelings, to cherish all the special moments in our lives, together.  

13. Aqua Welsh Back  

With a beautifully relaxed environment on the riverfront, Aqua is the perfect location for a special occasion, to meet up with a group of friends, take a special someone out for a romantic dinner or celebrate with the family. Sit back, enjoy the appetizing Italian food (especially the brunch) and then go for a stroll down to Queen Square to soak up some sun.  

14. No.1 Harbourside  

No. 1 Harbourside is one of the many family friendly restaurants dotted around the city of Bristol. Their menu includes vegan, vegetarian, and farmed meat roasts: there really is something for everyone. The menu is seasonal, keeping it fresh and exciting… and all their produce is sourced locally! Situated along the water, enjoy a cake at the waterside bar, then go for a digestive walk along the harbourside and take in the gorgeous views.  

15. Catch22  

You can’t visit England without getting fish and chips! Right in the centre of town, surrounded by attractions and shops, Catch22 is not to be missed. Whether you’ve been sightseeing for the latest items of the season, make sure you stop off and grab yourselves some fish and chips (or even “vish” and chips for vegans) on your adventure around the city. Catch22 is an award-winning restaurant, and well known for being the ‘best fish and chips ever’!