Bristol’s food scene is the real deal. It’s laid-back but always creative, whether you’re tucking into a pizza under fairy lights, browsing quirky markets, or trying house-made cocktails in cool neighborhood bars. There’s something for every kind of hungry traveler, from street food to posh sit-down spots—all proudly independent.
The city’s buzzing with new openings and friendly locals, so every meal feels like it’s got a little extra personality. Shopping for snacks or looking for a killer Sunday roast? Bristol’s got you covered.
If you’re here to eat, Bristol makes it seriously fun—and super tasty.
What to Eat in Bristol
Bristol Sunday Roast
The classic British roast is a huge deal here. Expect big plates stacked with roast beef or chicken, all the veg, golden crispy potatoes, and fat Yorkshire puddings. Lots of pubs and independent joints serve up some epic versions—don’t leave town without one. The Clifton Sausage and The Ox are local favorites.
Tapas and Small Plates
Tons of Bristol’s top indie restaurants push out creative small plates, influenced by Spanish, British, and global fare. Try Bravas for Spanish-style snacks, or Poco for seasonal British bites. The sharing vibe makes eating here even more social.
Bangers & Mash
You can’t come to Bristol and miss out on comfort classics. Try bangers (sausages) and creamy mash doused in thick gravy—The Clifton Sausage is the go-to, serving up local pork and veggie options.
Korean BBQ Chicken
Bokman on Cheltenham Road serves up Korean charcoal grilled chicken that locals rave about. It’s got a sticky, smoky, chili kick and it’s best shared with friends and plenty of pickles.
Vegan Street Food
Bristol’s one of the most vegan-friendly cities in the UK. Markets and street stalls dish out everything from jackfruit tacos to loaded vegan burgers—try St Nicholas Market for lots of vegan options.
Foodie Neighbourhoods in Bristol
Stokes Croft
Stokes Croft is Bristol’s artsy edge, jammed with creative coffee shops, colorful murals, and bars pouring natural wines. You’ll find street food stalls, indie bakeries, and international eats. Grab a coffee or explore the nightlife—the area’s always buzzing.
Clifton Village
Gorgeous Georgian streets, leafy squares, and a fancy-but-fun food scene. Clifton’s got stylish restaurants and intimate cafés. Check out KIBOU for Japanese bites or local cheese shops and delis for picnic supplies. Plus, it’s walkable to the Suspension Bridge for a view.
Gloucester Road
This is the heart of “keep it local”—Europe’s longest street of independent shops and eateries. Expect all-day breakfasts, Bristol’s best coffee, and lively pizzerias. Weekend brunch scenes here are legendary.
Harbourside
Chilled waterfront vibes, with street food markets, breweries, and open-air diners overlooking the water. Perfect for a casual lunch before hitting the local art galleries or renting bikes for a spin.
Southville
Southville’s got a real community spirit and a cluster of cozy gastropubs. Find hearty British fare, craft beer, and plenty of veggie choices. North Street’s street art trail makes wandering for snacks extra fun.
Budget Restaurants in Bristol
Mud Dock
Mud Dock is a chilled café right on the dockside where you can get an affordable breakfast or lunch. There’s even a bike shop on-site if you need a tune-up between bites.
The menu’s packed with good stuff—think loaded sandwiches and veggie-packed brunches. Friendly, fuss-free, and popular with locals.
Poco Tapas Bar
Poco is the spot for seasonal, ethical British tapas at fair prices. It’s comfy and unpretentious, and everything’s designed for sharing.
Plates are small but super creative. Ideal for a casual dinner with friends before heading out for drinks in Stokes Croft.
Mid-Range Restaurants in Bristol
Bravas
Bravas is a go-to for Spanish tapas, buzzing with locals every night. Don’t miss the patatas bravas or their house sangria.
The candlelit interior makes it great for date night or chilling with mates. Prices are fair for the quality.
Bokman
Bokman dishes out Korean soul food, like charcoal chicken and comforting rice bowls. It’s small, hip, and a bit under the radar (so book ahead if you can).
Dinner here feels fun and a little different every time.
Bulrush
Bulrush puts out refined small plates using seasonal West Country ingredients. It’s Michelin-starred but feels super relaxed, not stuffy. The tasting menu is a splurge, but the prix-fixe lunch is a great call.
Make a reservation—seats go fast.
Pasta Ripiena
Pasta Ripiena does next-level filled pastas in a cozy, contemporary setting.
The ricotta ravioli is epic—fresh, silky, and loaded with flavor.
Luxury Restaurants in Bristol
Casa
Casa offers slick, modern Italian in an elegant space—think handmade pastas, crisp wines, and polished service. The vibe is a little glam but still friendly.
The tasting menu is where it’s at if you want to go big.
Artist Residence
This hotel-restaurant hybrid hosts inventive modern British menus, cocktails, and all-day dining in a bold, artsy setting.
Perfect for birthdays or just feeling a little bit fancy for brunch or dinner.
KIBOU Clifton
KIBOU brings Japanese-inspired glam: sushi, ramen, and killer cocktails. The interiors are gorgeous (and perfect for photos), but food is the star.
Try the tasting platters to sample a bit of everything.
Best Coffee Shops in Bristol
Small Street Espresso
Loved by locals, Small Street Espresso serves single-origin coffees and homemade cakes in a tiny, light-filled space.
Great for people-watching and chill mornings.
Baristas Coffee Collective
Warm, welcoming, and always full of regulars. The house blend is rich and there’s always something sweet at the counter.
You’ll want to hang out a while, not just grab-and-go.
Origin Coffee
Origin is serious about specialty coffee. Their Bristol café is modern and minimalist, with ethically sourced beans roasted in Cornwall.
Their flat whites are spot-on every time.
FED
FED keeps things playful—monster hash browns, creative toasts, and plenty of vegan options. The staff know their coffee, too.
Busy on weekends, but totally worth it.
Markets in Bristol
St Nicholas Market
An absolute staple for Bristol. St Nicholas Market is indoors, bustling, and loaded with indie street food stalls (you’ll find everything from falafel wraps to vegan cakes). Great for a quick lunch or a wander-and-graze.
Plus, it’s in a beautiful historic building—rain never spoils the fun here.
Finzels Reach Market
This lively market pops up every Wednesday and Friday with a rotating bunch of local food traders. Grab fresh pasta, bao buns, or sweet treats—then head to the river for a sunny lunch spot.
Super central and easy to swing by between sightseeing stops.
Harbourside Street Food Market (Buoy)
This is the spot for weekends by the water: DJs, craft beers, street eats, and a festival feel all summer long. There’s a big quayside beer deck and vendors swap out every week, so it never gets boring.
Bristol Eats (BEats)
Bristol Eats brings together the best local traders for epic street food events across the city (think toasties, bao, and loaded fries). Follow them to find out when the next pop-up is on.
Budget Accommodation in Bristol
Bristol Wing
This cool, boutique hostel is housed in a historic police HQ. Expect private rooms and dorms, fun design touches, social spaces, and top-notch location near the city center.
YHA Bristol
Sitting pretty on the Harbourside, YHA is a relaxed, affordable base. The lounge and café are bright spots to recharge after a long day of eating, and you’re minutes from buzzy food markets.
Paintworks Apartments
Self-catering studios in a creative community. Access to bakeries and indie coffee shops is a huge plus—and it’s easy to hop on a bus into the city.
Base Vegan Retreat
A vegan-run retreat in the city with homey hostel vibes. Shared kitchens and a laid-back crowd make it easy to swap food tips or join the next market run.
Mystique Barn
On the outskirts but loaded with charm: think converted barn, peaceful garden hangouts, and a quick hop into Bristol by bus.
Mid-Range Accommodation in Bristol
Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa
In the heart of the city with a spa, bar, and all the comforts, this boutique hotel puts you steps from the best restaurants and markets. Great for a treat without blowing the budget.
The Bristol Wing
Quirky and affordable, with a creative hostel-meets-hotel vibe. Close to the center and perfect for solo travelers or groups alike.
Mercure Bristol Grand Hotel
Spot-on for exploring: comfy rooms, on-site dining, and a lovely old building. Feels a bit fancy but with reasonable rates—plus, it’s an easy walk anywhere downtown.
Radisson Blu Bristol
A modern tower with river views, prime location, and comfy rooms. Bonus points for the breakfast and guest perks.
Berkeley Square Hotel
Boutique hotel on a leafy square. Super stylish, with quirky art, and you’re right next to loads of cafes and restaurants in Clifton.
Luxury Accommodation in Bristol
Bristol Marriott Royal Hotel
This historic hotel sits next to the Cathedral and College Green. It’s relaxed luxury—think huge beds, rich fabrics, and a swish cocktail lounge. Great afternoon teas too.
Hotel du Vin Bristol
Set in an old sugar warehouse, this boutique hotel has character for days and a gorgeous bistro. The wine list’s legendary and the rooms ooze style.
Bristol Harbour Hotel & Spa
Luxury meets ease at this city center spot—indoor pool, plush spa, and great dining options right on site. Super close to all the food hotspots.
The Berkeley Suites
Sumptuous suites in Georgian townhouses, each with a kitchen and modern extras. The Clifton location puts you in prime brunch territory.
Artist Residence
Modern, creative, and just as cool as it looks on Instagram. It’s more than a place to sleep—expect great food, art, and design-forward rooms.
