Features / Restaurants
Bristol’s best restaurants
Our city’s culinary landscape is an amalgamation of cultures and a testament to Bristol’s overall diversity.
In June, we published the seventh edition of our independent food and drink guide, EatDrink24/7, featuring recommendations for pubs, cafes, bars, restaurants and shops chosen by an esteemed panel of over 60 Bristol-based food and drink stalwarts.
The following list of Bristol’s best restaurants are the places that were recommended by five or more panellists for EatDrink24/7 2025, with each panellist sharing anecdotes and memories that make these establishments truly special and, in their opinion, also the city’s finest.
EatDrink24/7 was published in June and features recommendations for pubs, restaurants, cafes, bars and food and drink shops from a panel of over 60 industry experts – cover photo: The Kensington Arms by David Eyre
Bokman, Nine Tree Hill
Bokman co-owners Kyu Jeong Jeon and Duncan Robertson opened a second restaurant, Dongnae, on Chandos Road in 2024 – photo: Christian Barnett
“Hands down my favourite place to eat at in Bristol. It always delivers and I love the vibe there. The gochu twigim is so good, I never want to share it alongside the kimchi fried rice.”
Emily Xin Xin Chan, Wangs
“At 43 there’s things that I have learned to appreciate alone, like taking a bath or going to the cinema. But Bokman typifies why sharing food at a table with good friends can be the greatest of pleasures. With hands navigating the busy table and dipping between bowls and plates of pickled vegetables, roast chickens, greens and oysters before washing it down with soju and cold beers, the only thing that you’ll feel bad about when you leave is the state you’ve left the table in.”
Alex Hayes, Squeezed
“I’ve had so many delicious meals at Bokman and can honestly say, it never disappoints! Everything they serve is packed full of flavour. The Galbi Stew is one dish I could eat over and over again (and often do), the beef short rib melts entirely off of the bone at first touch and into the spicy, umami, silky broth. The Banchan plate of seasonal pickles, Gochu Twigim of tempura spicy peppers stuffed with pork, and the fresh oysters with kimchi ice!! I’m obsessed. Paired with a concise but incredible wine list, mezcal by the glass, and soft serves with a twist? Top tier.”
Tallulah Small, Cor & Ragù
“Brilliant food. I love the fact that they’re putting in a bit of wine with that sort of cuisine.”
Pegs Bin, Sonny Stores
“I’ll start with my favorite restaurant which would have to be Bokman. It’s a really compact Korean restaurant. It’s probably the restaurant I’ve been to most. Really consistent, delicious food, interesting dishes that change every time you go, but there’s also the classics like tongdak, roast chicken, stuffed with rice.”
George Roberts, Hart’s Bakery
“It’s too hard for me to choose between Duncan and Kyu’s restaurants, I love them both and they are our go to spots on a rare night with a babysitter and out of the restaurant. Their dishes are so flavourful and generous and they also have a beautiful selection of wines available at both sites from one of our favourite wine importers, who are also Bristol-based, Vine Trail.”
Lily Sterck, Marmo
“My favourite places in Bristol will start with Bokman, this little Korean place has been for years the place I go to get away from my very Mediterranean cooking. Every time I go there is something new, either a new item in the Banchan or a new noodles dish as well as always having in the menu the tasty Tongdak (Chicken stuffed with rice) a must have!!! Kyu and Duncan have opened its sister restaurant Dongnae which has clearly raised the bar of the cooking they are producing in Bokman but still, Bokman is that little place where every mouthful would transport you somewhere else.”
David Pavon, El Colmado
“Another independent staple in Bristol, the food is incredibly unique and always top notch. make sure to pre order a rotisserie chicken. Every meal I’ve had here over the years has been memorable with the flavours and dishes coming out of the kitchen being right on the money. Absolutely cracking atmosphere, The owners Kyu & Duncan are some of the nicest people you will ever meet, and most definitely have made their mark on Bristol’s food and drink scene.”
Mikey Farrer, One B Coffee House
BOX-E, Wapping Wharf
BOX-E is co-owned by husband and wife team Elliot and Tessa Lidstone – photo: BOX-E
“If I weren’t dining at our own restaurant, BOX-E would be my top choice for hosting London friends—a perfect showcase of exceptional food, bold flavours, and expertly chosen wines. I love the intimate, cosy atmosphere of the shipping container, where Elliott and Tessa create something truly special as an outstanding team.”
Puja Chadha, The Granary
“Small plate with big tastes. The menu changes with the season, so the dishes are never out of style.”
Arrow Jie, Ka:fei
“Tess and Elliott have been staples of Wapping Wharf since they opened in 2016. Elevated dining in a relaxed environment. Lovely service and I’m still amazed as to how Elliott is SINGLE-HANDEDLY cooking impeccable dishes night after night!”
Miguel Alzugaray, Food Tours of Bristol
“Husband and wife teams run some of Bristol’s finest hospitality businesses, and Tess and Elliott at BOX-E are among the best of the bunch. The food and drink here is, of course, exceptional, but the pair also put community at the heart of what they do, always willing to help others and support good causes.”
Martin Booth, Bristol24/7
“Small and perfectly formed, serving up beautiful seasonal produce with main portion sizes that’ll actually leave you full and satisfied. Elliot and Tess have created a beautiful thing and know their flavours! Need to book myself in for a great feed!”
Chris Williams, Farro
Bulrush, Cotham
Bulrush is one of two restaurants in Bristol to currently hold a Michelin star – photo: Bulrush
“The levels that George goes to, to create flavour, are unbelievable. He does super exciting things that chefs rarely do, super interesting misos and garums. It’s a real experience to try so many flavour combinations; it’s really incredible! George is so passionate about food and it’s amazing to hear him talk about it.”
Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Ex-owner, Paco Tapas & Casamia
“A fantastic spot for a special night out. The tasting menu is a real treat, and the knowledgeable staff make it a lovely experience.”
Hari Nathan, The Red Tiger
“It’s probably the best fine dining restaurant and technically perfect restaurant in Bristol. The cooking, the technique and the diversity!”
Josh Eggleton, The Pony Group
“For a special occasion, we love Bulrush. Never seems to disappoint.”
Olivia Barry, Adelina Yard
“Wonderful cooking and atmosphere. Tough to pick a favourite dish, but the celeriac cooked three ways and served with whey sorbet was a revelation.”
Oli Smith, Bristol Cheesemonger
Chez Candice, St Werburgh’s
Chez Candice trades from a horse box cafe on Watercress Farm and has an ever-changing menu – photo: Cécile Maïa Pujol
“When the weather is nice, there’s nowhere else to be. It’s a little escape. My partner and I happily sit there for hours when we get a day off together. Chez Candice is a breath of fresh air. Her food is everything you want to eat. By far the best lunch in Bristol. I’d die happy eating that Chocolate, marmalade and hazelnut frangipane tart.”
Josh Dickinson, The Scrandit
“A tiny but mighty food truck nestled next to The Purple Patch farm along the footpath which runs from the end of Mina Rd in St Werburghs to Muller Road. Open Thurs-Saturday lunchtimes and well worth a trip. BYO bottle for an alfresco Saturday lunch.”
Anita Cheung, Ah Ma’s Dumplings & Clouds
“It is just one of the most unique and beautiful lunch spots in Bristol. The food is incredible. I’ve never been to and I don’t think I’ll ever be to another place like it. It is so gorgeous!”
Cat O’Shea, Radical Roasters
“Discovered via tip-off from Laurence at Interlude coffee. Homegrown, delicious food cooked from a converted horse box on Watercress Farm. Great all year round, especially nice in summer when the farm is in full swing. Ever-changing menu, so you’ll have to pay a visit to find out what’s going on!”
Mikey Farrer, One B
“Candice’s cooking is delicious, set at Purple Patch Farm. Always REALLY yummy. The best produce, and a beautiful place to be.”
Mary Wilson, Wilson’s
COR, North Street
Cor and their sister venture Ragu were both named one of CODE Hospitality’s Happiest Places to Work for 2025 – photo: COR/ Ragu
“Brilliant neighbours of ours, they’ve lifted our end of North Street fundamentally and continue to do so. It’s immensely accessible, whilst maintaining one of the best fixed lunch deals in the city. Mark is a great chef with his right hand, Vicky, and they’ll both go on to do many more great things. Unbeknownst to me, their cocktails are supposed to be extraordinary, and the addition of their bi-fold windows makes it a fantastic early evening spot too.”
Hugo Sapsed, Hugo’s
“Chef Mark is a man who knows what he is doing in the kitchen. But he’s also a very clever businessman, as I’ve worked out. He’s employed some of the best chefs around, head chef Vick is out of this world and a lovely person. The food that comes out of the kitchen is insane. I’m looking forward to getting in and checking out the wild boar ragu on polenta with a salsa Verde. You will find me sat at the bar at least once a week since now I’ve opened a residence close.”
Adam Ball, Frankie’s
“A small plates restaurant on North Street, COR is one of my all-time favourites. The menu is inspired by Mediterranean flavours, with a focus on shared tapas-style dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. My personal highlight? The Tropea onion with beurre noisette, goat cheese, and sage—an absolute delight! The Caesar salad with Ibérico ham is also unforgettable. COR is not overly sophisticated, but it delivers incredible flavours and top-quality ingredients, making it perfect for any occasion.”
Raffaela Gravante, The Chef’s Table
“My god, the place. My favourite thing I had a few weeks ago was the savoury cannele. It is usually sweet but this comes with goat’s cheese curd and brown butter. It is absolutely incredible. I didn’t know they had Tiramisu, so now I need to go back.”
Iman Salat, Jikoni
“I’m sure Cor will be on a lot of people’s lists. Their Tonka bean crème caramel, whilst sat at a window seat with a candle flickering, is perfection.”
Will Prosser, Hilda’s
“A North Street gem. The team here serve fresh, vibrant dishes that are meticulously executed. I absolutely love seafood, some of my favourites here have been Cornish skate wing, drunken mezcal prawns and mussels with sobrasada Iberica. I’m also a big fan of their savoury canele with goat’s curd and hazelnut buerre noisette, pure genius.”
Lisa Coulter, She Sells Sushi
“I’ve been to COR about four times in the last year alone. Love the whole dynamic of the restaurant.”
Holly Eggleton, The Pony Group
Little Hollows, Chandos Road
Passersby often get to see chefs handcrafting various pasta shapes through the glass window at Little Hollows’ on Chandos Road – photo: Little Hollows
“Little Hollow Pasta stands out for its interesting pasta shapes and textures, paired with creative sauce/ filling combinations that were a delightful surprise. The friendly service further enhanced the overall experience.”
Toru Yanada, Burra
“Outstanding pasta. One thing done amazingly well. The craft and passion shine through here, which makes it one of my favourite places to eat out.”
Will Prosser, Hilda’s
“Our neighbours just received a thoroughly deserved Bib Gourmand. Just delicious. And I love arriving at work in the morning to see them making pasta in the window.”
Mary Wilson, Wilson’s
“There’s a warm glow at Little Hollows which emanates through the old shop front windows and out into the street, and the homeliness is continued through to the candlelit tables, attentive and friendly service and beautifully crafted pasta. Little Hollows is the restaurant in Bristol I wish I’d opened.”
Alex Hayes, Squeezed
“I’m lucky enough to live 1-minute walk from Chandos Road so I’m spoilt for choice for places to go. My favourite has to be Little Hollows – the interior is unassuming but that’s because the focus is on the food. A great selection of fresh pasta made on site, with some tasty starters and desserts to accompany.”
Peter Lien, The Global Larder
“If I could eat here once a week, I would! Let’s hope the Agnolotti dish never leaves the menu. A restaurant that is going from strength to strength. Lovely garden as well for spring/summer alfresco dining.”
Josh Dickinson, The Scrandit
Marmo, Baldwin Street
Marmo is owned by husband and wife pair Lily and Cosmo Sterck – photo: Sam A Harris
“Fond memories from every visit. It’s been too long since I’ve been but it’s easily one of my most suggested spots when someone’s asking for a dinner recommendation. A cut above the rest. Such a beautiful building and interior. Very much looking forward to trying the new wine bar.”
Josh Dickinson, The Scrandit
“The menu at Marmo is usually pretty short, but there’s always something on there that I really, really want to eat. The food makes me nostalgic for some old London restaurants I loved when I worked in the capital, and where the chef/owner Cosmo cooked before moving to Bristol. Their wine game is top notch with some interesting tipples by the glass to accompany the Italian-influenced dishes, and the service is always on point.”
Peter Lien, The Global Larder
“We have served Marmo since they opened and I’ve always gone back. It has a great fondness due to its predecessor, Bar Buvette, and they’ve done a great job at retaining all the charm and knocking out some of the best food Bristol has to offer. The set lunch here is an extraordinary value.”
Hugo Sapsed, Hugo’s
“A special place in my heart and a long-time favourite. Quality, concise menu with food I want to eat, with an excellent wine selection as well. And a shout-out to them for doing the best steak tartare I’ve ever had!”
Chris Williams, Farro
Root, Wapping Wharf
Root has recently opened a site in Bath to accompany its existing restaurants in Bristol and Wells – photo: Karen Johnson
“I love this place as it defines itself as a vegetable-focused restaurant. I think if any restaurant is brave enough to just focus on that, it deserves recognition. I think it’s almost harder as protein isn’t always the main event, but they find ways around it. I love seeing what they come up with.”
Emily Xin Xin Chan, Wangs
“Seasonal, inventive, fresh and always spot-on.”
Kins Pelletier, Big Nath’s
“True masters of the game, Root have been crucial in putting Bristol on the culinary map of the UK. True chefs should be judged on their veg cookery, anyone can put a nice bit of protein on a plate, but these guys continue to yield fantastic and bountiful flavours through any season, driven by a strong sourcing policy, a lot direct from farms. The proof is in the pudding; they’ve been around for years and will be for many more to come.”
Hugo Sapsed, Hugo’s
“If I’m feeling a bit fancy, I go to Root, which has a primarily vegetable-based menu, but don’t let that put you off if you’re a meat eater, because everything is really tasty and rich. Being a baker, I also have an extremely sweet tooth, and this is one of the few restaurants that really care about their desserts. They often have choux buns stuffed with some sort of creamy substance, which is always a winner for me.”
George Roberts, Hart’s
“Growing up in India, seasonal vegetables were always the stars of the meal, with meat playing a supporting role. Root embraces this philosophy but elevates it to new heights—where even a humble carrot, with the perfect touch of seasoning and a glass of natural wine, could dream of a Michelin star all on its own.”
Puja Chadha, The Granary
“I’ve eaten here possibly too many times, but I cannot help myself, but go back again and again. If I’m ever out to impress, Root is always my first choice in restaurant reservations to introduce friends to. A constantly changing seasonal menu led by the veg they are growing in the gardens makes for an interesting and delicious evening every time. The mocktails are not to be slept on either; they are some of the most delicious beverages I’ve had in Bristol.”
Hannah Catley, Catley’s
“I’ve always been a big fan of Josh Eggleton and Rob Howell, and after visiting Root a few weeks ago, I think it’s the best it has ever been! I loved everything about it, but the planting / outside garden on the terrace is inspired, and eating on the terrace is highly recommended. The Sticky Toffee Pudding was insane and one of the best desserts I’ve had for a long time.”
Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Ex-owner of Paco Tapas & Casamia
The Scrandit, Christmas Steps
The Scrandit on Christmas Steps recently celebrated its fifth year anniversary – photo: The Scrandit
“On the surface, the Scrandit is a cosy and quaint pub on Christmas Steps, but in the kitchen is where the magic happens. The Scrandit operates as a kitchen residency, offering up the pub to talented chefs from across Bristol to showcase their food for all to try. Each week, there is a different cuisine and style of food, from warming ramens to British fine-dining to Italian comfort food. You’ll never be bored of coming here and will always be satisfied.”
Ed Starling, Starlings
“We always keep an eye out for what’s going on at the Scrandit – so many amazing pop-ups under one roof that you can just keep going back again and again! The atmosphere is super casual, and it’s so handy to walk in on a Sunday as we often fancy going out at the last minute.”
Emma Lyons, Other
“With ever-changing pop-ups and a great crowd, the Scrandit on Christmas Steps is one of my favourite haunts. I’ve made great friends and sampled many dishes within these walls.”
Janine Alexandar, J9kitchen
“Josh has created something special with the Scrandit. This pop-up kitchen is a hub for some of the finest, most creative chefs in Bristol. With countless supper clubs, memorable meals and happy times, it’s where great food and good vibes collide.”
Kins Pelletier, Big Nath’s
“I’m completely biased because I pop up here regularly. A fantastically curated, welcoming space. Intimate bar area. Great staff. Great drinks. A large communal table upstairs, which hosts an array of supper clubs surrounded by intimate small tables. Revolving kitchen Thursday to Sunday, showcasing some of Bristol’s finest pop-ups. The Scrandit also has a beautiful garden.”
Rachel Bull, Winkle Picker
“Not a fan of the name, but a massive fan of this spot. A city’s food scene lives and dies by its pop-up venues; this one’s Bristol’s best. Steepest bench in town and hotspot for all that’s new and exciting.”
Graham Faragher, Bertha’s Pizza
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Do you have a favourite cafe, restaurant or pub that you think is making waves in Bristol’s culinary scene? Let us know by nominating them as a Bristol Food and Drink Legend.
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Sonny Stores, Southville
Husband and wife team, Pegs Quinn and Mary Glynn, own and run Sonny Stores in Southville – photo: Sonny Stores
“I love everything about Sonny Stores. The pasta is always great, as are the pizzettas; a potato, olive and taleggio one stands out in my mind. If you go with a few pals, you should just order the whole menu. The space is calm, and the people working are always lush. Having the focaccia and olive oil ice cream feels like a ‘I was there’ moment. Plus, 25 quid for a three-course lunch: are you dizzy?”
Rapha Persighetti, Gigi’s Pizza
“Pegs is just such a great cook. Simple but absolutely delicious food. I’m desperate to get my hands on some focaccia ice cream.”
Pash Peters, Lido
“A place where you feel like you are eating at home. It’s all about the ingredients and the people. A Bristol gem.”Melanie Vaxevanakis, The Mazi Project
“I was lucky enough to go to Sonny Stores recently, and I feel terrible that I’ve only just been! It was fantastic!”
Holly Eggleton, The Pony Group
“Italian bites that will bring a splash of colour to even the dreariest of days.”
Arrow Jie, Ka:fei
Wangs, Picton Street
Wangs recently raised money to bring a traditional Cantonese oven to Bristol from China – photo: Zoë Frances
“Modern Chinese food with a touch of finesse. Don’t even think about skimping on the fried chicken – trust us, double the order is never a bad idea!”
Kins Pelletier, Big Nath’s
“Wangs has a warm, cosy vibe and the atmosphere is super friendly. More importantly, though, the food is delicious! The Dan Dan noodles with spicy sesame sauce and choy sum and turnip cakes with Chinese sausage and scallop roe XO sauce are divine. My favourite dish has to be stir-fried tenderstem broccoli with white Fuyu dressing and fried garlic. Always go with a side of house pickles and Wangs house chilli oil.”
Lisa Coulter, She Sells Sushi
“A new place with dishes from all around China. Amazing dumplings, really good cocktails and a cold chicken sesame jellyfish salad. Sounds weir,d but it works.”
George Roberts, Hart’s
“Brilliant! Serving Chinese food like I’ve never had before. The pickled mushroom to start was incredible. The owners are even better! The new Bristol must visit.”
Melanie Vaxevanakis, The Mazi Project
“I loved the buzzing atmosphere on a late Saturday evening, we chose few items from the menu but it was so good that next time I’ll order the whole thing to share with a friend, absolute gem.”
Alberto Noriega, Grano
“Sach and Sandy first started doing pop-ups in a self-built space just down the road from Bokman – we loved to see it! Since then, they’ve brought on board dumpling guru Emily to run the kitchen and are just getting better and better. My favourite dish is their homemade turnip cakes with house XO, but you can’t go wrong with anything on the menu – including their signature Taiwanese beef noodles and chilli oil wontons.”
Kyu Jeong Jeon, Bokman & Dongnae
“Picton Street is a richer place with the addition of Wangs. They nail the neighbourhood restaurant vibe. Great welcome, great drinks. Dreamy spicy Mary’s, and if you don’t have the turnip cake, you’re a loser.”
Rachel Bull, Winkle Picker
Wilson’s, Chandos Road
Wilson’s on Chandos Road was awarded a well-deserved Michelin star in 2025 – photo: Wilson’s
“Wilson’s executes everything to the highest standard; food, service, wine, sustainability, I could go on. It’s my favourite for evening celebrations, but also a fantastic option for lunch. The £35 menu available during the week is such a steal, incredible value for money for one of the best restaurants in Bristol.”
Tallulah Small, Cor & Ragù
“Not something we do every day, but their set lunch offers are blindingly good value for a no-compromise but easy-going fine-dining experience just off Whiteladies Road, mostly sourced from their own farm. Outstanding wine list too!”
Anita Cheung, Ah Ma’s Dumplings & Clouds
“Still my go-to for my birthday, still no one doing it like Jan.”
Pash Peters, Lido
“It needs little introduction as Jan and Mary (friends in both our work and home lives) have built such a great reputation and industry accolades. It’s so well deserved – the space has such a passion and warmth to it, and their dedication to produce really resonates with what we’re doing at Bokman and Dongnae.”
Kyu Jeong Jeon, Bokman & Dongnae
“If it were closer, I’d make it my go-to spot for a weekly lunch meeting—outstanding value paired with effortless charm. I love how they champion hyper-seasonal, sustainable ingredients while curating impeccable wine pairings. The small team is so knowledgeable, striking the perfect balance between attentiveness and discretion. And let’s not forget their bread shop—home to some truly exceptional baking.”
Puja Chadha, The Granary
“Love the food, love the ethos, love the relaxed and fun vibe. Last year I had one of my favourite ever puddings there; toasted marshmallow with garden herbs. Sounds simple doesn’t it!”
Oli Smith, Bristol Cheesemonger
“Jan has such a fantastic ethos to utilise all of the ingredients. He grows vegetables that nobody else is growing, which adds bold flavours to his delicious menus. When you are at Wilson’s, you know what season it is just from what’s on your plate. Jan is becoming a heavyweight in the UK dining scene, and I’m so pleased that he finally got a Michelin star this year. This shows his true dedication and just how consistently brilliant his restaurant is.”
Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Ex-owner Paco Tapas & Casamia
You can read the digital version of the EatDrink24/7 guide here.
Main Photo: Benjamin Pryor
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