Sitting where the River Avon meets the Severn Estuary, Bristol pulses with a creative energy that sets it apart from Britain’s more buttoned-up cities. This is a place where Banksy first wielded his spray cans, where Massive Attack and Portishead pioneered trip-hop, and where Victorian warehouses now house everything from immersive art spaces to craft cider taprooms.
Bristol wears its contradictions proudly – it’s simultaneously gritty and genteel, radical and refined, with street art adorning Georgian terraces and Michelin-starred restaurants neighbouring proper pubs.
The city’s maritime past remains visible at every turn, from the restored SS Great Britain to the colourful houses of Clifton climbing the hillside like something from a sailor’s fever dream. But Bristol refuses to be a museum piece. In neighbourhoods like Stokes Croft and Gloucester Road, independent shops, venues, and cafés create what locals proudly claim is Britain’s most alternative mile. Meanwhile, the transformed harbourside buzzes with floating restaurants, cultural centres, and enough craft beer to sink a ship. Or, indeed, those floating restaurants…
While Bath, just 15 minutes by train, attracts the coach parties, hens and stags, Bristol rewards visitors with authentic experiences and a refreshing lack of tourist tat. Here, you’re more likely to stumble upon a guerrilla gardening project than a gift shop, more likely to find yourself in a converted shipping container listening to an underground DnB set, than queuing for overpriced attractions. Two days provides enough time to grasp why Bristolians are so fiercely proud of their city – and why an increasing number of Londoners are making it their permanent home.
Day 1: Harbourside Heritage & Street Art Safari
Morning: Breakfast & Brunel
Start your Bristol adventure at the aptly named The Bristolian, an independent café just around the corner from lively Stokes Croft, where they try to source everything locally. There are plenty of gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options, however you can’t go wrong with one of their full ‘Bristolian’ breakfasts.
Breakfast is big business in this city and The Bristolian is walk-in only, so if you can’t get a seat, pop into Café Kino which is just around the corner. This spot is very typical of a certain Bristol vibe, offering a community-focused cooperative with a vegetarian and vegan menu. Do a good deed for the day and partake in their ‘suspended coffee’ pay-it-forward scheme where you can buy a coffee or a soup that can be claimed by anyone who can’t afford it. Lovely stuff.
A 25-minute walk (or 10-minute bus ride on the number 8) brings you to the Harbourside and Brunel’s SS Great Britain. Arrive by 10am to beat the school groups and experience this marvel of Victorian engineering in relative peace (though, be warned, it’s closed Mondays in winter). The ship, once the largest in the world, has been brilliantly preserved in a glass-roofed dry dock that creates the illusion of floating on a glass sea. The audio guide, narrated by various fictional passengers, brings the vessel’s transatlantic crossings and Australian emigrant runs to vivid life. Tickets (£19.80 online) include unlimited return visits for a year.
If you haven’t had the chance to eat breakfast before you get to Brunel’s, pop to The Crêpe & Coffee Cabin, Bristol’s smallest coffee shop, complete with views across the harbour. This is a no-nonsense breakfast at a great price, and is a glorious spot on a sunny day to break your fast.
Midday: M Shed, Markets & Maritime Quarter
Stroll along the harbourside and pop into M Shed on Prince’s Wharf. It’s a museum all about Bristol and is free to enter. Then it’s onto Wapping Wharf, Bristol’s answer to Copenhagen’s Meatpacking District. This development of converted shipping containers houses some of the city’s most exciting food ventures.
Here you’re spoilt for lunch choices. For something light, head to Root, where chef Rob Howell creates vegetable-forward small plates that change with the seasons. Their charred hispi cabbage (whose garnishes change with the seasons) is the best version of this ubiquitous dish we’ve ever had, and the natural wine list champions small European producers. The restaurant holds a Michelin Bib Gourmand, a real coup for a place not in thrall to protein. Alternatively, Gambas is a tapas bar that places a heavy focus on all things prawn. Inspired by Valencia’s Mercado Central, there are few better ways to spend an afternoon than by taking a seat at the counter here and sucking prawn heads.
Before or after lunch, explore the independent shops of Wapping Wharf – Bert’s Homestore for Scandi-inspired homewares, The Bristol Cheesemonger for West Country artisan varieties, and Mokoko for bean-to-bar chocolate. Then walk to Spike Island, an international centre for contemporary art housed in a former tea-packing factory. Their exhibitions showcase cutting-edge work, often with a political edge that reflects Bristol’s radical heritage.
Afternoon: Street Art Pilgrimage
No visit to Bristol is complete without a street art tour. While organised tours exist, the DIY approach proves more rewarding. Since you’re in the area, start with Banksy’s Girl With The Pierced Eardrum in Hanover Place. Then, take the Bristol ferry up past Millennium Square to the city centre ferry landing.
Before your street art quest continues, stop off at Under the Stars, one of our favourite boat bars. It’s moored on Bristol’s historic harbourside, and is ideal for a quick refreshment before heading to Nelson Street. On the way, if you’re in need of a snack, stop for some award winning Birria tacos or Nepalese dumplings at The Harbourside Market which is open every Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday.
When you get to Nelson street, Banksy’s Well Hung Lover still clings to the side of a building at the Park Street junction, despite vandalism attempts (and a rumoured sale of the building) over the years. From here, wind through the backstreets towards Stokes Croft, Bristol’s cultural quarter and street art mecca.
The ever-changing murals here range from massive commissioned pieces to guerrilla tags. Don’t miss Banksy’s Mild Mild West opposite The Canteen – this 1999 piece featuring a teddy bear throwing a Molotov cocktail at riot police remains one of Bristol’s most iconic artworks.
While you’re here, pop into The Canteen for a swift coffee or something a little stronger. Here talented bar staff and baristas serve flat whites to some of the most colourful characters in Bristol. This place has become an institution and embodies Bristol’s independent spirit – the walls feature rotating exhibitions by local artists, and the communal tables encourage conversation with everyone from activists to accountants.
Sampling Caribbean food is another Bristol must and we can’t recommend Caribbean Croft on Stokes Croft enough. The recipes come from the chef’s mother-in-law, Ms Cat, and the menu is influenced by the restaurant’s staff who come from across the different islands. For something light, order the starter sharing platter (red mullet salad, Jerk wings…the works) and wash it down with their signature cocktail, the Caribbean Croft, which blends three different rums with vodka and a refreshing mix of grapefruit, orange, cranberry, fresh lime, and grenadine for a tropical flavour explosion. They also do a mocktail version if all that rum sounds a little too much of an afternoon pick-me-up.
Alternatively, if it’s raining cats and dogs on your visit (this is the South-West, one of the rainiest regions of the UK) and a street art tour is out of the question, consider going to Wake The Tiger, the UK’s largest immersive art experience, set in an old abandoned paint factory. It’s a labyrinth of mind-bending visuals and multi-sensory fun, and well worth your time, come rain or shine.
Evening: Cider & Sounds
Bristol is often referred to as the cider capital of the UK and has a thriving cider scene. As darkness falls, make your way to The Apple, Bristol’s most beautiful cider boat moored in the Old City. This converted Dutch barge stocks over 40 ciders, from bone-dry farmhouse scrumpy to modern flavoured varieties. Order a tasting board to navigate the options – the staff genuinely know their stuff and can guide nervous newcomers away from the head-spinning 8% varieties which will have you singing “I Am A Cider Drinker” by the Wurzels on repeat. If you’re up for another jar, pop over to the Left Handed Giant, a renowned craft brewery which has great views across the Floating Harbour and Castle Park.
You’ll of course need a good meal after that cider and Bristol doesn’t disappoint. Ask most chefs and they’ll tell you that Bristol is undeniably a strong contender for the title of the best foodie city in England. With a diverse and thriving food scene, this Southwest food destination is home to an impressive array of Michelin-recognised restaurants and countless other award-winning establishments.
For dinner, choose from our roundup of the best restaurants in Bristol. While we can be fickle, currently our favourite in all of Bristol is COR in Bedminster. With a leaning towards Mediterranean plates told through a British lens, the food here is bright, bold and brilliant.
Wherever you go, end your night at Thekla, the legendary live music and club boat moored in the Mud Dock. This former German cargo ship has hosted everyone from Portishead to Idles over its 40-year history. Following a £1 million refurbishment in 2019, the sound system and intimate atmosphere guarantee a proper Bristol night out. Check their live listings – you might catch anything from drum and bass to post-punk.
Day 2: Clifton Heights & Independent Delights
Morning: Suspension & Splendour
Begin day two exploring Clifto, Village. Start with breakfast at Primrose Café, which is arguably Bristol’s most beloved café. It’s been under the same ownership for over 30 years and everything is sourced locally, as you’d expect. Alongside your usual suspects, they have some fantastic breakfast options including kedgeree, huevos rancheros and our favourite, The Scandi, where toasted raisin and caraway rye is topped with all sorts of good things like cured salmon, pickled cucumber and celeriac rémoulade. This is a walk-in only café, but wait times are usually low.
The Lido Restaurant is another one of our favourite spots for breakfast in Clifton. Serving Mediterranean inspired breakfasts from 9.00am to 10.45am, you can’t go wrong with their pan con tomate served with jamon and manchego, or our favourite charcoal grilled Iberico bacon chop, topped with a fried duck egg and accompanied by Morcilla de Burgos and baked beans. Booking is advised and if you fancy a swim, you can pre-book breakfast and a swim for £40.
From Clifton, it’s just a 2-minute stroll to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, Brunel’s masterpiece spanning the Avon Gorge. Cross on foot (free for pedestrians) for spectacular views – on clear days, you can see the Welsh hills. The visitor centre on the Leigh Woods side provides fascinating context about the bridge’s troubled construction and various safety measures.
For the energetic, descend the zigzag path to the Avon Gorge for a different perspective. Otherwise, return to Clifton Village and explore its independent shops. Then, wander down Whiteladies Road, which is home to a host of independent shops.
From Whiteladies Road, head to Park Street for the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery. This free museum punches well above its weight, with collections ranging from Banksy’s Paint Pot Angel to Alfred the Great’s coins. The Eastern art collection proves particularly strong, while the geology section explains why Bristol became such an important port.
For lunch, walk down Park Street to St Nicholas Market, Bristol’s oldest market dating from 1743. Known as ‘St Nick’s’ to locals, this covered market has been named as one of the best in the UK and is a must-visit.
The gorgeous glass arcade is home to the best street food in Bristol, and, arguably, the South West. Favourites include Chilli Daddy, who serve Szechuan street food, Caribbean Wrap, where you can get some of the best jerk chicken in Bristol, and Momo Bar, which is a Tibetan family-run stall steaming up momos. Also, don’t miss Angelababy Kitchen and their Hong Kong-style cooking – we love their char siu pork and generously sized bao buns. To top it all off, Taco Barra does excellent tacos, but be warned, they do sell out.
Whatever you choose to eat, or even if you decide to go hungry, grab a seat anywhere you can and watch the eclectic crowd drift past – this is Bristol at its most diverse and democratic.
If you’re in the mood for a mooch around after all that food, catch any bus heading north from the centre to Gloucester Road, reputedly Europe’s longest stretch of independent shops. Start at the Cheltenham Road end and work your way north, popping into whatever catches your eye. If you’re after a coffee, head to Scandi-style cafe Mød, or stop off for a pint at The Cider Press.
Evening: Dinner, Laughs & Live Music
For your farewell dinner, book ahead at Wilsons. This tiny restaurant on Chandos Road serves a daily-changing tasting menu that regularly earns national acclaim. Chef Jan Ostle works with hyper-local suppliers to create dishes that feel both innovative and deeply rooted in place – the Wye Valley asparagus with brown butter or Cornish crab with cucumber and dill exemplify the light touch. The wine list leans heavily on natural producers, with plenty available by the glass.
Cap off your Bristol weekend at The Wardrobe Theatre, an intimate venue at the Old Market Assembly that hosts comedy, theatre, and spoken word. Their weekend comedy nights attract both touring acts and local talent – Bristol has produced a disproportionate number of local comedians, after all. The BYOB policy and 100-seat capacity create an atmosphere where anything might happen.
Finally, if you’re looking to continue your night, Bristol was recently named as one of the best places in the UK for its pub music scene. For live jazz, The Old Duke on King Street by Bristol’s harbourside has live music every night. You’ll recognise this area as it’s right next to The Cider Press. Kings Street itself has got to be one of our favourite streets in Bristol. Dating back to the medieval times, today it’s home to around 10 pubs and houses several of Bristol’s most renowned historic buildings, such as the Bristol Old Vic and the Llandoger Trow, the latter of which often has live music on too.
Elsewhere in Bristol, the Golden Lion on Gloucester Road serves live music every night of the week except Sundays while The Louisiana, where the likes of Amy Winehouse and Dua Lipa have played, always has something on.
Neighbourhood Know-How: Where To Stay In Bristol
Choosing the right Bristol base depends on whether you prioritise nightlife, culture, or tranquillity. Each neighbourhood offers a distinct flavour of Bristol life.
Harbourside appeals to first-time visitors wanting everything within walking distance. The Bristol Hotel, despite its chain appearance, occupies a prime position with rooms overlooking the water. More characterful is Number 38 Clifton, a boutique townhouse where each room is individually designed by local artists. Their breakfast includes homemade granola and eggs from urban chickens.
Clifton suits those seeking village vibes with city access. The Avon Gorge by Hotel du Vin, a Victorian pile by the suspension bridge, offers old-school grandeur and spectacular views following a complete renovation. For self-catering, the Clifton Lofts provide architect-designed apartments in converted warehouses, perfect for longer stays or those who want to shop at the farmers’ market.
Stokes Croft/Montpelier attracts visitors wanting to dive deep into Bristol’s alternative scene. The Artist Residence Bristol, occupying a former boot factory, features rooms designed by local artists and a ground-floor restaurant showcasing neighbourhood suppliers. Be aware this area gets lively at weekends – embrace the energy or pack earplugs.
For budget options, the YHA Bristol sits between the harbourside and city centre in a modern building with some en-suite rooms. In Stokes Croft, the Full Moon Backpackers occupies a Victorian house with both dorms and privates, plus a legendary Sunday roast that attracts locals.
Business travellers often default to the Aztec West business park, but staying there means missing Bristol’s essence. The city centre or harbourside provide better bases for experiencing what makes Bristol special while remaining convenient for meetings.
Forty-eight hours in Bristol reveals a city confidently charting its own course. From the street art-splattered walls of Stokes Croft to the genteel terraces of Clifton, from harbourside heritage to cutting-edge culture, Bristol offers experiences you won’t find in any other British city. The locals’ fierce pride in their independence, creativity, and slight contrarianism proves entirely justified.
Those with more time should explore further – the Mendip Hills for caving and hiking, Bath for Georgian splendour and a wealth of incredible day trips, or the Cotswolds for picture-perfect villages. The city also works brilliantly as a base for exploring the wider West Country, with excellent train connections to Devon and Cornwall.
But Bristol’s real appeal lies in simply wandering, following your nose from vintage shop to craft brewery, from harbourside path to hilltop view. Just don’t blame us when you find yourself browsing Rightmove for Totterdown terraces before you’ve even left.
The transformation of Bath’s restaurant scene, from one dominated by chains and tea rooms to one of the South’s culinary powerhouses, has been nothing short of astounding.
Just a decade ago, only those hungry punters craving a Cornish pasty, sausage roll or scone would have been truly satisfied, but recent years have seen a slew of independent, forward-thinking eateries opening in the city, and we’re very much here for it.
No, really, we’re very much here, strolling the honeyed streets in search of a good feed. If you’re in the city centre doing the same, then you’ve come to the right place, cause we’ve got a whole twenty recommendations here for you, some fancy some frugal, but all very much delicious. Here are the best places to eat in Bath; our IDEAL 20 restaurants in Bath.
Upstairs At Landrace, Walcot Street
Ideal for light yet generous plates of produce-led Britalian dishes…
Yep, we said that many of Bath’s best restaurants are relatively recent additions to the city, and this is certainly true for Upstairs at Landrace, which emerged during lockdown, found its feet fast, and, thankfully, appears to be sticking around for the long haul.
Housed above the excellent Landrace Bakery, which specialises in sourdough bread made using stoneground British grains, the kitchen up that winding staircase is led by former Brawn and Quality Chop House chef Rob Sachdev, who brings a similarly straightforward sensibility to the cooking here.
The menu comprises a handful of snacks and starters and a couple of larger plates, with the cheddar fritters from the former section already reaching something close to cult status. It’s easy to see why; pillowy, giving and nestled under blankets of finely grated local cheese, they are seriously, seriously addictive. One plate simply isn’t enough.
From the larger dishes, deceptively simple, perfectly-cooked portions of fish are paired with hyper-seasonal veg; on our last visit, and as a bright spring day lifted the mood in the city, a dish of monkfish, fennel and salsify felt apt. For something packing a touch more heft, rump steak or pork chops regularly appear on the ever-rotating rundown, the latter last week served as a whopping (and pleasingly pink) chop, complete with bone for gnawing. The new season broad beans, tender enough to be served still in their pods, reminded us that warmer times were just around the corner.
And with the announcement late last year that the restaurant (and bakery downstairs) were expanding next door and broadening the scope of their operations, the Landrace 2.0 (as it’s being referred to) now aims to place a firmer focus on whole-animal butchery, the beast broken down out the back and featuring several times in different forms on the menu. That Gothelney Farm Tamworth pork might appear not only as a chop, but also a hock and head terrine, a leg and shoulder ragu, and as a faggot of its livers. Waste not, want not!
Desserts are exemplary, with the skills of the now even more ambitious bakery below on full display. Should there be a tart on the menu – last week it was a blood orange and almond number – order it.
All in all, Upstairs at Landrace manages to be both light and breezy, and eminently satisfying. Right now, it’s our favourite restaurant in Bath, and long may that continue.
PS. You’re in for a real surprise when you visit the toilet!
Ideal for Marco Pierre White-approved fish and chips…
Though nominally a fish and chips restaurant, the Scallop Shell, on Bath’s Monmouth Place, is so much more than that. Opened seven years ago and already superchef Marco Pierre White’s favourite restaurant in the area, this place is always packed and it’s easy to see why; fish is sourced sustainably, cooked simply yet thoughtfully, the vibe is cheerful and the service smooth. That’s all you could ask for, right?
And though their fish’n’chip offerings are certainly delicious, there’s also a regularly updated menu of other, arguably more interesting, options; whole fish (a whopping sea bass for two on our last visit) blistered and burnished by the grill and bathed in anchovy butter, steamed mussels or clams depending on the catch, grilled scallops in their shell, all served swimming in garlic butter, smoked sardines on toast… You get the picture.
Also of note, during weekday lunches diners can enjoy the restaurant’s ‘Fisherman’s Lunch’, which sees a portion of fish and chips, homemade mushy peas, tartare sauce and nice big mug of Yorkshire tea priced at a keenly priced – really, really keenly priced – £12.50. Yes, just £12.50.
All in all, it’s a top, top place for seafood lovers and one we can’t stop returning to for our fix of fresh fish.
If you’re in Bristol, the Scallop Shell now has a sister restaurant there. Called Noah’s, it’s already made it onto our list of the best restaurants in Bristol. And, just this week, the team have opened a new restaurant and bar next door to the Scallop Shell, called Sydney’s. Considering their track record for gorgeous, approachable places to eat, we’ve got high hopes for this one.
Ideal for regionally faithful Cantonese and Sichuan cooking, all so close to the station…
Bath doesn’t have a Chinatown, nominal or designated, owing to its size and sensibility, but there are several excellent, regionally faithful Chinese restaurants in the city, the high quality likely a result of the large number of Chinese students here.
Perhaps the best Chinese restaurant in the city, serving signature dishes from the Cantonese, Sichuan and Northern canon of Chinese cooking, is East meets West, its name thankfully just a reference to its location rather than a warning of the flashes of fusion within.
There are two menus here, an English menu and a Chinese version. These descriptors (theirs) don’t describe the language used, as both are presented in the Queen’s, but rather, the likely target demographic of each. Whilst the former has your usual Kung Pao, roast duck with plum sauce, and a range of chicken, cashew and pineapple preparations, it’s in the Chinese menu where things get interesting.
Here you’ll find a hefty rundown of properly spicy, numbing dishes from the Sichuan province, bubbling, rust dappled hotpots centered around tripe and stomach, and the odd preserved egg dish thrown in for good measure. This is exactly what you want on a wet and windy West Country night with winter in full swing.
The numbing dishes served cold are particularly good at East meets West, with a plate of hot and spicy ox tongue a revelation on our last visit. A cold poached chicken in simple spring onion broth – cloudy, piquant and complex – was superb too, as was the signature mapo tofu, which we saw the staff enjoying a huge bowl of out back. Always a good sign…
With Chilli Family Noodles (also on our list) visible out of the restaurant window, the whole thing would have been transportive were it not for the discarded Sainsbury’s bag blowing about folornly in the rain opposite.
Perhaps the best dish of all here, though, was actually one which could be found back on the English menu – slabs of soy braised pork belly that arrived in a sheen of molasses black sauce and quivered when nudged with a spoon. Sitting on top some much-needed pickled mustard greens as the perfect foil, it tasted amazing. None of these dishes top £15.
Pair it all with a Tsing Tao or two, priced at a decent £3.90 a bottle, let the buzz of a busy dining room wash over you, and luxuriate in some of the most effective escapism that a few notes can buy. That, or it’s a £600 flight to Chengdu Shuangliu International. You decide…
Ideal for grazing on seasonal small plates while you explore a world of wine…
Corkage is a wine bar first and foremost, with a fine selection of showstoppers, heavy hitters and a few more esoteric bottles for good measure, many of which are imported by the owners here Richard Knighting and Marty Grant.
It’s a welcoming, inclusive affair on this stretch of Chapel Row; you won’t be judged for not knowing your stemmy from your steely, that’s for sure. In fact, exploring is greatly encouraged, with 50ml tasting samples available to help you find your ideal glass or bottle. We love that arms open approach.
This wine bar, it should be said on a rundown of Bath’s best restaurants, also happens to serve excellent food. A selection of seasonal small-ish plates to graze on while you pontificate on your wine, the ham hock terrine – suspended in a grassy green jelly – with a generous smear of split pea fava dip is a hearty old thing for just £8.50. The close-to-collapsing, spoonable beef short rib with house focaccia, beef dripping roasties and shavings of parmesan is even better.
For those erring on the ‘nibbles’ side of things, Corkage’s crisp squares of fried polenta with sharp, creamy whipped goat’s curd for dragging through, are something of a menu mainstay. Out back, an agreeable alfresco terrace area is a lovely spot to soak up some sun, order a second round of that polenta and have another glass.
Ideal for an elegant, invigorating curry experience…
Though we’re sure that the Dishoom cookbook is out back, with certain pages turmeric stained and curry splattered, we’re also pretty sure that Bandook is Bath’s best Indian restaurant, its gently refined take on Bombay streetfood classics has been a really welcome introduction to the city since opening in 2019.
From the team behind the acclaimed Mint Room in the city, and the winner of ‘best restaurant’ at the Bath Life Awards earlier this year, Bandook is open for lunch and dinner seven days a week, with its light and airy dining room chiming perfectly with the restaurant’s intentions to be a place for relaxed, all-day drinking and feasting.
Start with the signature pan puri, those photogenic, enlivening bites of puffed semolina shell filled with chickpeas, tamarind chutney and sharp, invigorating jal jeera water. The version here is exemplary, all crisp exterior giving way to soothing, spiced chickpeas and the energising lift of the chutneys. It’s the perfect way to start a meal.
On the other end of the spectrum, the umami-heavy keema pav is ace, too. It’s a heady affair, with the curried minced lamb possessing enough funk to surely be mutton, and its buttery, pillow bed of brioche bun the perfect foil.
Unsurprisingly, the curries are awesome too, tasting like a true labour of love in their depth and complexity, but with a pleasing lightness at the same time. We could happily bathe in their old style Delhi butter chicken, though we could only dream of coming up for air as smooth and silky. Weird image aside, it’s such a luxurious bowlful.
Though a frothy Kingfisher might feel tempting and appropriate, we love to pair this one with a refreshing Limca soda, which chimes succinctly with the effervescent feel of the whole Bandook package. Cheers to that!
Oh, and Bandook’s resident jazz band, The French Connection, play every Thursday from 7pm to keep you entertained while you eat with their live rendition of swing-jazz.
Ideal for all-day dining and drinking in Bath’s creative quarter…
Just when you think you’ve got Walcot House figured out – is it a restaurant? A wine bar? A brunch spot? – you realise that’s precisely the point. This impressively versatile venue, set in the beating heart of Bath’s artisan quarter (bit of a grand term for a street with some graffiti and a flea market, admittedly), seamlessly transitions from refined dining room to sophisticated drinking den without missing a beat.
The transformation of this former bakehouse mirrors Bath’s own culinary evolution. Where once there were Jägerbombs, student nights and rugger folk downing pints, now sits one of the city’s most accomplished venues, spanning three distinctly different floors. The main restaurant, flooded with natural light through an industrial glass pitched roof, serves food you just want to eat. A brigade of passionate chefs works with produce from carefully selected local farmers, with meat coming from their own Green Street butchers just around the corner (and just a few paragraphs below), where native breeds are dry-aged on the bone. Go peer through the window and gawk at some seriously handsome stuff.
A recent dinner brought paw-sized, hand-dived scallops with that beautifully caramelised crust but mi-cuit centre that would have Masterchef judges cooing. Its accompaniments were just the right side of interesting; pretty florets of heritage cauliflower, and a caper and raising purée that balanced sweet and saline notes with precision. What a great dish this was.
Perhaps even better was a main of local fallow deer, its loin served thickly sliced to reveal a perfectly blushing, wall-to-wall pink, the meat rich and deep but not mealy, clearly having benefited from that close relationship with their butchers and the proper hanging it deserved. A lovely little slab of celeriac dauphinoise – nutty, buttery, but surprisingly light – sealed the deal. So that’s that; the main dining room is most certainly a winner.
Downstairs, the intimate Bread & Jam bar crafts some of Bath’s most intriguing cocktails. Their seasonal list shows real invention – a winter Sérol Spritz blends No. 3 gin with nectarine and grapefruit sherbet, while their house negroni gains complexity from a measure of bitter-orange Pampelle. The bar menu – back at street level – matches this creativity and offers a fine focal point for a graze and a gossip: rich, almost sensual wild mushroom arancini arrive under a snowfall of pecorino, while the buttermilk fried chicken has enough nooks, crannies and crevices to be massively satisfying to crunch into.
The wine list is as inclusive as the venue, reading like a careful study of both classic and emerging regions. Many are available by the glass thanks to deployment of a Coravin, and they’ve even collaborated with South African winemaker Pieter Walser of BlankBottle to create ‘Flavour Zone’, a characterful Mourvedre-Shiraz blend that captures the creative spirit of the place.
Mornings bring excellent coffee and house-baked pastries in the Dilly Bar, a space that transforms from daytime café to evening wine bar. Fuck me; you could get lost in here after a few. The breakfast menu shows the same attention to detail as dinner service, from a Full English featuring Green Street’s own sausages and bacon to wild mushrooms with truffle on sourdough. A keenly priced set lunch (£20 for two courses) offers one of Bath’s better-value fine dining experiences.
And that, we think, covers this all-things-to-all-people operation that manages to keep everyone satisfied – no mean feat in such a discerning city.
Though Bosco bills itself as a Café Napoletana, the vibe inside is, quite frankly, more New York hotel bar, with plenty of marble counter seating, dark leather stools (you might want to see a doctor about that), and low filament lighting casting shadows over the more intimate corners of the dining room. This is one of the city’s most romantic spots for an evening date, that’s for sure.
On the plate are some excellent (on their day) pizzas alongside deep fried snacks, bruschetta, Italian meats and cheeses, pasta and a couple of larger plates for good measure. Though the quality of the pizza here has been erratic on a couple of previous visits, the pasta dishes are particularly well realised, with the veal lasagna genuinely excellent, its structural integrity intact, as it should be, but its bechamel sauce positively piquant and oozing.
If you’re looking to graze while you drink in the dining room’s amorous vibe (as well as the excellent house negroni), then the cicchetti section of the menu is where you’ll feel most at home. We’ve been known to base a whole meal around their taleggio arancini, fried zucchini and bouncy but giving polpette in the past. Bolster the spread with a little coppa and gorgonzola dolce, imported from Lombardy, and you’ve got yourself the finest Italian feast in the city.
A Bath institution and a restaurant of much seniority compared to many of the others on our list, Nepalese restaurant Yak Yeti Yak is one of the city’s longest serving restaurants for a reason.
Head down the staircase to this inviting, stone-cobbled room and – immediately after you’re hit with the intoxicating aroma of incense and black cardamom – you’ll be met with a warm welcome like you’re one of the family. Generous portions of intricately spiced, instantly-likeable Nepalese dishes follow.
Though the vibe is certainly snug and intimate here, the cooking certainly isn’t what you’d call ‘homely’; there’s some real flair on display in the nimble but keenly seasoned momos, whilst the signature Yak Yeti Yak chicken – inspired by Katmandhu’s hole in the wall bars – is delicate and sophisticated in flavour.
Don’t miss the regal, saffron-infused Kesariko dhai – a yoghurt dish with origins in the kitchens of Himalayan royalty – which sends you on your merry way back up that flight of stairs and onto street level a very satisfied diner indeed.
The restaurant also runs the YYY Foundation, which does excellent work on long-term community projects in Nepal, including raising money for women’s hygiene products and contributing to the rebuilding of several primary schools. Do check it out.
Ideal slurping bowls of spicy, nourishing noodles…
You wouldn’t perhaps expect to find a bowl of seriously nourishing, Sichuan-pepper laden noodles in a tightly-packed dining room tacked onto the back of a public toilet…
Scrap that last sentence; that’s exactly where you might expect to find a bowl of seriously nourishing noodles were you in one of the worlds street food capitals such as Guangzhou or Bangkok, but Bath, let’s be honest, isn’t exactly known for rugged, rough and ready dining.
That’s what makes Chilli Family Noodles all the more special, and, in our view, one of the best restaurants in Bath. Here, and despite what at first appears to be an expansive menu, the choices are simple; choose between stewed beef, minced chicken, spare ribs or tofu, choose from flat, fat or thin noodles (or rice), and prepare for a mouth-numbing, lip-tingling bowl of pure heaven, and all for just £7, whichever way you choose to fill your bowl.
Though the restaurant name and menu quite rightly steer you in that direction, regulars to Chilli Family Noodles will know that the real highlights lie in the ‘something extra’ section of the menu, with the mouth-watering chicken (served cold) a real winner whether you’re looking for something refreshing in summer or nourishing in winter. It really ticks all the boxes.
And with a row of wok-burners out back, you know you’re in for that all-important ‘hei’ from the stir-fries, too. Mine’s a pak choi with extra garlic, if you’re getting them in.
Do be aware that the restaurant only takes cash, though you’ll be very well fed indeed for under £20 for two (there are several cash points just across the road).
For a similar vibe, we’re big fans of Noodle Bath (just off Kingsmead Square), too.
Ideal for a grown-up menu of the UK’s finest wild fish and game…
This relatively new addition to Bath’s burgeoning dining scene from Mike Robinson, co-owner of London’s only Michelin starred gastropub, the Harwood Arms, might already be the best restaurant in the historic Somerset city.
Having opened in the late summer of 2020, following the first national lockdown, the Elder has found its groove immediately, with a focus placed firmly on locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and a menu that showcases the best game and wild fish of the region. Considering Bath’s position an hour from the coast and with good access to the UK’s largest fish market, Brixham in Devon, as well as its proximity to Quantock Hills, where wild deer roam, it feels like the menu writes itself here.
But that would be doing a disservice to the intricate, respectful cooking on show at the Elder; there’s some serious thought going into these dishes. The Dorset crab tart is a revelation, but even better is the Muntjac deer tartare on brown butter crumpet, which is a stunning piece of work. Leave room for the desserts, if you can; the seasonal fruit souffle (raspberry on previous our visit) is faultless.
And if that wasn’t enough, the restaurant has recently opened its very own oyster bar, with freshly shucked native oysters served on their gorgeous, south facing terrace. Well, it would be rude not to, right?
Last year, The Elder announced something of a revamp, menu wise. Both simplifying proceedings but also seemingly taking things up a notch, replacing the old a la carte offering with the introduction of a 7 course tasting menu, with a choice between meat and fish for the first starter and the main, as well as a dedicated vegetarian option. Priced at a generous £85 per person, the menu is designed around wild, seasonal, ever-changing, sustainable British ingredients. Let’s hope that crab tart finds its way back onto the menu soon!
Ideal for the best Vietnamese food in the South West of England…
Vietnamese cuisine isn’t particularly well represented in the city, but Noya’s Kitchen is doing its best to change that with fresh, zippy Vietnamese food served at a variety of special events, lunches and supper clubs.
We’re particularly here for Pho Wednesdays, when bowls of the famous noodle and broth dish are devotedly served. A must order are Noya’s crispy pork with ginger and water chestnut dumplings topped with a blob of homemade chilli cranberry jam. They are divine.
You know when you’ve eaten one too many beige, protein-defined meals? In a sometimes beige, often protein-defined city, Noya’s the place to head for some respite.
In the summer, see if you can get a seat out in the popular garden; sunny, pretty and decorated with colourful parasols, it’s the ideal place to be on a summer’s day. The staff know their bun cha from their bun bo hue and are as charming as they come. You’ll leave here feeling happy, content and with a spring in your step.
Ideal for fine wines and the perfect drinking food…
Beckford Bottle Shop has made serious waves during its six years on Saville Row, picking up a hugely coveted Bib Gourmand award from Michelin and some fawning reviews in the national press. We certainly concur with that validation; the formula is one so very hip in London right now, of a wine bar which just happens to serve some really enticing small plates. It’s less ubiquitous here, which makes this bottle shop all the more enjoyable.
Two recent visits brought with them plates of precise seasonality and a keen sense of place. On the first outing, highlights included some superb devilled livers on toast, as well as Bath chaps – slow braised pig cheeks, pressed, breadcrumbed and deep fried – with a rustic, rough apple puree, and a decadent, dark chocolate mousse finished with pumpkin seed.
Even better on a more recent visit, a buttery, invigorating anchovies on toast was lifted by gently pickled shallots, whilst the now obligatory order of courgette fritti was texturally satisfying, its exterior crisp, its centre tender and giving. The accompanying aioli managed to be both delicate and decadent; a fine balancing act, indeed.
Both dishes – salty and satisfying – felt like the perfect drinking food in elegant Bath, and the accompanying Melissaki orange wine (available by the carafe), its texture dense and acidity gentle, was the ideal foil for the food.
Seemingly warming to a theme, a plate of salt cod brandade on toast was gorgeous, too, the wine now slipping down a little too easily. From the meatier side of the menu, a few blushing pink, thick slices of venison loin sat on a sharp tomatillo puree, a menu outlier but one which worked brilliantly well. The Nebbiolo d’Alba matched it with aplomb.
To end, an affogato of burnt butter ice cream, the restaurant’s own rum caramel, and a strong, bitter espresso, was the perfect way finish everyone off. If the Beckford Bottle Shop is this good after just a handful of years on the Row, we’re very excited for the future here.
Ideal for a light-hearted atmosphere and gentle re-interpretations of classic British fare…
Part of the same acclaimed restaurant group as the Beckford Bottle Shop from just a few yards up the road, Beckford Canteen has only been open for just shy of two years, but it’s already become a fixture of (admittedly, increasingly predictable) national restaurant reviews and awards.
To be fair, it’s easy to see why Beckford Canteen is enjoying such precocious praise, of being one of the best restaurants in Bath already. First off, the dining room (set in a former Georgian greenhouse) is airy and easy-going, with plenty of window seating for watching the hustle and bustle of Bartlett Street go by. Service here, as with the bottle shop north up Saville Row, is flawless, cheery and mellow, a great encouragement to settle in for the afternoon.
The menu echoes this light-hearted atmosphere, with gentle re-interpretations of British classics like a sweet and verdant pea and mint soup, and the restaurant’s already iconic rarebit crumpet ticking all the right boxes. Better still is the pork jowl terrine, ensconsed in a translucent, giving jelly that tastes of the best ham hock stock.
On a recent visit, a panisse topped with wild garlic and trout roe was ordered three times – all you need to know – and the restaurant’s signature, impossibly crisp layered potatoes seemed to be on every table. If there is a whole fish, cooked on the bone and doused in brown butter with shrimp, then that is another must order on a menu full of them.
With every bottle on the tight but carefully composed wine list also available by the glass – the restaurant’s house Picpoul de Pinet, at £7.50, is crisp and refreshing – this is a meal that needn’t break the bank, too, the inclusivity of the ‘canteen’ moniker feeling wonderfully fitting.
And just today, the restaurant has announced via their Instagram a new lunchtime set menu. Running Wednesday through Friday, it will be keenly priced at £25 for two courses, or £30 for three.
The thoroughfare that takes in Kingsmead Square, Saw Close and Barton Street is perhaps Bath’s buzziest, full of hens and stags, seagulls and pigeons, waifs and strays, and three of the restaurants on our roundup of Bath’s best – The Oven, Chaiwalla, and our latest entry, the Persian mezze and charcoal kebab specialists at Baba’s Mezze.
Opened with little fanfare in October of last year, you might be tempted to call Baba’s Mezze something of a ‘hidden gem’, were it not for the inviting smell of charcoal, smoke and caramelising fat that wafts out of the always open door and onto Barton Street whenever you walk past.
If that nostalgic aroma isn’t even to beckon you in like a freshly baked apple pie on a cartoon windowsill, then instead be enamoured by a glimpse of the twinkling Souk-inspired lighting and the warmth of the Persian rugs – a kind of curated, thematic dining room, sure, but one that promises a great feed.
And so it delivers. Ignore the piratical, tea-stained treasure map of a menu. Instead, admire its brevity, a refreshingly short and confident affair with seven cold and seven hot mezze, and a handful of larger items ‘from ‘the firepit’. From the former section, the signature baba ganoush is superb; roughly hewn rather than pureed, and smoky as you like. The yoghurt-based mezze mast o khiar is an exemplary version, too, given its characteristic perfume from dried mint and rose powder. Drag the restaurant’s grilled, butter anointed flatbreads through both and luxuriate.
And then, onto the main event; the kebabs. For us, a koobideh kebab – that heady, fatty minced lamb number wrapped around thick metal skewers and gently grilled – is always irresistible, and Baba’s is a fine rendition; not charred and gnarly, but rather, tender and full of the flavour of lamb fat. Its liberal basting of saffron butter certainly hasn’t harmed its immaculate texture.
The wine list is an interesting affair too, with the majority of bottles hailing from Greece, Turkey and Lebanon. That said, the Georgian Tbilvino Saperavi (£38) was just the ticket with that lamb koobideh, its deep, dark ruby colour and a rich bouquet of dark berries and subtle spicing, alongside robust tannins and well-balanced acidity, complemented the overtly succulent nature of the lamb brilliantly.
It shouldn’t come as a huge surprise that Baba’s Mezze has hit its stride so quickly. The owners here, Ben Shayegan and Ben Goodman (one Persian and one Greek), have extensive experience in Bath’s dining scene, with the Shayegan family owning several restaurants in the vicinity, including The Oven, Raphael and Amarone. The head chef here, Mehdi Paratesh, hails from Tehran and boasts 15 years of experience working the charcoal grill. We’re so glad they’ve brought that expertise to Barton Street.
The Chequers has long been one of Bath’s best pubs, standing on its humble, residential spot close to the Royal Crescent and the Circus for close to 250 years. A great place for pints since forever, it’s only recently started gaining very well-deserved traction for its food too.
Pull open the door and you’re immediately hit with that waft of a great pub welcome. Nope, not the smell of stale beer and flatulence but, rather, the din of chatter, chiming glasses and clinking cutlery. Stride up to the welcoming central bar that’s the beating heart of the dining room and order a stout if you’re so inclined, as the Chequers is still proudly a pub, but if you’re lucky enough to have nabbed a dinner reservation (booking ahead is highly recommended, particularly for their excellent Sunday Roast), you’ll be richly rewarded with a rundown of pub classics given the odd reinvention or twist.
A case in point is the current menu staple of crispy lamb, which here sees shoulder cooked down until giving and pull-able, and pressed into a terrine mould with plenty of ultra-gelatinous stock set around it. It’s then breaded and deep-fried, because everything tastes better than way. A bright, delicately spiced carrot and cumin puree mellows everything out. What a dish this is – yours for just £9.50.
You could order from the mains section of the menu, with dishes like Wiltshire venison loin, blackberries, cavolo nero and celeriac certainly singing of the seasons, but really, the highlight of a meal at the Chequers is stuff on the special’s blackboard just to the right of the bar, which lists a couple of big beefy bits (a tomahawk for two on our list visit), as well as dayboat fish, cooked simply and sympathetically, as produce this good always should be.
A late September visit brought with it a whole brill with sea vegetables and pickled shrimp, which was excellent, but even better was a skate wing so thick it looked more like a chop, that came anointed with a generous lashing of deep, brooding peppercorn sauce. A scattering of crispy sage leaves sealed the deal; this was a lovely dish. The accompanying triple-cooked chips will get pressed and mashed into that sauce if you know the move.
Yes, it’s that kind of place, of tradition and classical cooking with just a little innovation, which is often what you want from your gastropubs, don’t you think? Not that The Chequers would want to be called a ‘gastropub’, we’d wager. A pub will do just fine.
And yes, of course there’s a crackling fire to gather around in the depths of winter. We think we might stay here a while, actually…
With an enviable vantage point presiding over Bath and the Charlcombe Valley below, the Hare and Hounds isn’t just a pint with a view; they also serve fantastic food here.
Work up an appetite for it with a calf-stretching upwards climb to the pub (700 feet above sea level, if you’re asking) along Lansdown Road, your breathtaking walk rewarded with breathtaking vistas and a fine feast at the summit.
Get your name down for the famous Hare and Hounds lamb scotch egg while you’re ordering your first pint, as this one often sells out. After a bite, you’ll understand why. Do a bit of zero waste ordering and go for the lamb sweetbreads next, crisp and golden and served with a braise of warm lamb’s lettuce (no relation to the sheep you’ve been working your way through) and peas.
You could be properly weird and order the Sri Lankan lamb shank for mains, but the fish and chips are really, really good here, all lacy bronze beer batter and perfectly steamed Cornish hake within. Chunky chips, a chunky tartare sauce and a chunky (huh?) lemon wearing its best muslin cloth jacket seals the deal.
Now that summer isn’t far away, things are only going to get better here. Indeed, when the weather is kind, there’s no better place to dine al fresco than the Hare & Hound’s terrace, admiring the Somerset landscape and rewarding yourself with another cloudy cider for the road. You did earn this one, after all.
Ideal for pleasingly old school dining at a pleasingly old school price point…
Back down at street level, and the views are almost as gorgeous from Chez Dominique’s dining room, this time looking out over Pulteney Weir and its roaring waters (cue a conversation about whether you could survive being dropped into it, naturally).
Back in the room and eyes on the menu, and it’s not perhaps quite as Francophile as the restaurant’s name suggests, with gochujang mayonnaise, curried lentils, chimichurri and a whole host of other apparent interlopers making their way onto the table. That mayo forms part of a very agreeable starter, in fact, bringing vigour and succour to slices of ox tongue.
There’s something reassuringly old school about Chez Dominique. From the mahogany furniture and blue glassware all the way to the frivolous font on the menu, it’s the kind of place where you order your own starter, main and dessert without fear of being corrected with the old “let me explain how our menu works”. From the mains, a skillfully roasted chicken breast, crisp skinned and tender fleshed, comes with creamed leeks and a sauce poivrade, a gently acidic, black pepper-heavy sauce that’s thickened with a roux rather than cream. It coats that chicken just right.
With several very drinkable wines in the mid-twenties for a bottle (and just £13.50 for a carafe), and a lunch menu that’s just £29 for three courses, Chez Dominique is also one of Bath’s best value restaurants. A truly fabulous place to spend an evening.
Ideal for Bath’s finest vegetarian dining experience…
A chic vegetarian restaurant just a Bath stone’s throw from the Abbey, Oak posits itself as something of a collaborative experience, with a team of ‘grocers, growers and cooks’ behind the gorgeously inviting menu here.
Formerly known as Acorn and honestly even better as its iteration as Oak, the restaurant is one of the first plant-based (pedants; fuck off) joints in the country to be listed in the Michelin guide. It’s easy to see why. Delicate but generous seasonal dishes like smoked ricotta agnolotti with asparagus and wild garlic not only deliver on flavour and freshness, but also on price point; dishes hover around the tenner mark, with nothing going above £12.95. For food of this quality, it’s an absolute steal.
That sense of value is exemplified by Oak’s five course tasting menu, a veritable feast for just £49, with wine pairing an almost philanthropic £27. In 2024’s eating out climate, you’ll rarely find a bottle for that price, let alone a bespoke pairing situation. Salut!
Ideal for a truly authentic, elbow-to-elbow tapas bar in the heart of Bath…
When on the hunt for the best tapas in Bath, we’re big fans of Pintxo, just a few doors down from the Theatre Royal. But a more recent discovery and, for our money, even better, is Ole Tapas, a tiny, first floor tapas bar that’s impossible to find and almost as impossible to snag a stool in. Incidentally, it’s only just around the corner from Pintxo and on the same street as the Gin Bar (just sayin’), if you do need to wait for a perch.
Whilst we’re loathe to use the word ‘authentic’ about a tapas bar in a Roman city in England, Ole is about as authentic as it comes, all tight seating and knocking elbows with your neighbour, noisy chatter, noisier flamenco music, and some great small plates designed for picking over as the cañas are kept flowing.
Ole’s berenjenas con miel are a fine version indeed, these salty, sweet batons of deep fried aubergine dressed in just the right amount of cane honey reduction. They are just the thing with a few cold ones, as is the croquette of the day, on our visit the classic ham; runny, gooey and just a touch tacky, as it should be. The classics keep coming; plump, pert boquerones that aren’t dressed too sharply, patatas bravas blanketed in a wellmade, viscous salsa brava rather than a ketchup/mayo mash-up, and albondigas with the requisite bounce.
Another cañas slides over to your space on the counter, and you conclude that this is the best tapas you’ll find in Bath. The city’s residents seem to agree, but fortunately, you can book Ole Tapas. Doing so a week or two in advance is highly recommended.
This little corner of South West England isn’t too blessed with seriously good pizza options, so we’re ending our tour of our favourite restaurants in Bath in The Oven.
The oven in question, central to the restaurant not only in name but in its prime position in the dining room, is manned by pizzaioli Fabrizio Mancinetti, with the pizzas here loosely based on the Neapolitan canotto style.
Translating as ‘dinghy’ and defined by their imposing, inflated crusts, the dough at The Oven boasts the requisite heft to carry some generous toppings, whether that’s the Sicilian sausage, mushrooms and toasted walnuts, or the goat’s cheese, caramelised red onion, rocket and pine nuts. Yes, nuts on a pizza; trust us, it works. While this won’t be the best pizza of your life, it’s a good spot with quick, efficient service.
Honourable Mention: Green Street Butchers, Green Street
Ideal for a taste of Bath’s best sandwich…
Okay, we accept that it’s not a restaurant, but if you’re looking for some of the best food in Bath, then we simply had to give a shout out to the sandwiches served at these esteemed butchers on Green Street.
You can get a sense of the quality here by perving on the various cuts of beef hanging in the window, all dry-aged, barked, and marbled to perfection. Inside, the presence of house cured guanciale in the fridge and freshly-baked focaccia on the shelf further points to the premium nature of the place.
So, to those sandwiches. You have a choice of three at Green Street Butchers; rotisserie chicken, roast beef or porchetta. The latter is particularly good (it turns out the butchers here are Italian, and it shows), with a thick, single slice of tender pork-stuffed pork and the most bubbly of cracking bedded between a bap, its accoutrements of tarragon salsa verde and celeriac remoulade bringing the whole thing to life. Incredible, and almost impossible not to order a second.
Of note, the team behind the butchers (and Walcot House, which we’ll come to in a moment) have recently opened a centrally located pasta bar. Called Solina, it’s the kind of place of which Bristol has too many, but Bath has none, until now. We look forward to checking it out soon.
Ideal for one of the best falafel wraps in the UK…
It might seem hyperbolic to dub somewhere so small and unassuming as a Bath institution (or even, as it happens, a ‘restaurant’ as there are no seats) but this cheap and cheerful spot is more than deserving of that title.
The smell alone as you wander by this hole-in-the-wall, takeaway only operation in Kingsmead Square should tell you everything you need to know; inside, the cooks are doing incredible things in the most humble of spaces.
Bristol’s food scene, it should bear repeating, has a lot going for it. Named as only the UK’s second gold sustainable food city back in 2021 and as the world’s number one vegan city a year earlier, this south west culinary powerhouse also boasts a healthy, stacked Michelin Guide and plenty more acclaimed eateries besides.
Narrowing those restaurants down into a singular, definitive list, then, is something of a thankless task. But we’ve taken on that task, begrudgingly eating the finest food from across Bristol, from Korean grilled chicken to bowls of pasta that reached triple figures, to bring you this; our guide on where to eat in Bristol. Here are the IDEAL 22 restaurants in Bristol.
Bokman, Cotham
Ideal for a reviving, exciting Korean spread centred around grilled chicken…
Tucked away at the end of a steep cul-de-sac off Bristol’s loose and lively Stokes Croft neighbourhood, you’ll find Bokman, a small Korean restaurant with a big reputation.
The work of Duncan Robertson and Kyu Jeon, who met at Paris’s L’Atelier de Joël Robuchon and have since got married, this is a unique dining experience that is both intimate and exhilarating, the tightly spaced dining room on the ground floor a buzzing, belying centrepiece to the grill work going on out back.
On that upright, rotating charcoal spit you’ll find the star of Bokman’s blistered show; the Tongdak. Featuring crisp-skinned rotisserie chicken stuffed with sticky rice and slow-cooked until tender, it’s served with ssam style, with lettuce leaves for wrapping and a selection of dipping sauces and pickles. A bowl of the house kimchi is, of course, obligatory. It’s got to be the most celebratory, all-in sharing plate in the city.
Bokman’s menu doesn’t stop at the Tongdak, though. Seasonal vegetable bibimbap makes the ideal dinner for one, the famous stone bowl rice dish given lift-off with gratings of cured pollock roe and an oozing egg yolk, whilst the seolleongtang – a wibbly, wobbly beef stew topped with spring onions and spicy dadaegi condiment – is one winter warmer and a half, and could be peddled as a health food were it not so damn indulgent tasting. Whole bream bathing happily under a rusty gochujang-heavy sauce is yet another knockout. Yep, you’ll want to bring friends for this one.
All you need alongside is a bottle of room temperature soju and consider your cockles thoroughly warmed (can you tell we’re writing this on a particularly chilly day?).
Cool things right back down with Bokman’s signature soft-serve, perfect even in winter, and you’ve got yourself one of the most peerless, joyful dining experiences in Bristol.
Excitingly, in late 2024 the team behind Bokman have recently opened a new restaurant over on Chandos Road. Named Dongnae, we can’t wait to check it out soon.
There’s something rather fitting about Caper & Cure occupying a former ‘cash chemists’ on Stokes Croft – after all, their negroni sbagliato might just be the remedy you need after a particularly trying Tuesday.
The 1920s mosaic tiling at the entrance still proudly proclaims its pharmaceutical past, a charming reminder of when Bristolians could pop in for their ‘remedies and cures’ without prescription. The modern version is probably just round the corner on Hepburn Road, but that’s closed now, too…
Anyway, enough of the tenuous introductions, let’s stride into Caper and Cure and get across it. Here, owner Giles Coram has created a bijou shabby-chic success story, transforming what was most recently an arts café into one of Bristol’s most cherished neighbourhood bistros. The space has seen more incarnations than a method actor – from that original chemist to electrical supplier, internet café, and music venue. But it’s the basement that holds the real intrigue, having apparently hosted ‘shenanigans, japes and capers’ throughout its entire history. Some things, it seems, never change – though these days it houses a rather smart private dining room next to the kitchen that can still get pretty boisterous.
The transformation of Stokes Croft from its grittier past to artisan food destination makes Caper & Cure feel particularly symbolic of the area’s evolution. The restaurant has featured in The Good Food Guide as one of Britain’s 100 Best Local Restaurants twice in the last three years, a testament to how this compact corner spot has captured hearts well beyond BS1.
Start with spanking fresh Maldon oysters, taking pride of place at £3.75 a pop (or a very civilised six for £18), each one to be dressed simply with a classic mignonette that lets their briny sweetness sing. Continue on a theme with the cured wild sea bass. Slices are laid gently in a crystal-clear tomato and olive consommé that’s savoury and delicate, the inherent richness of the fish allowed to shine through. This kind of dish is often butchered by an overt acidity that crudo simply can’t take, but here, the consommé is expertly judged, a pleasing backnote rather than the main event.
Whilst not nominally a fish restaurant, we continued with a more robust plate of monkfish that really shows off the kitchen’s chops at the stoves, the meaty fish given heft and smoke from its sobrasada sauce (that spreadable Balearic sausage that makes everything better). Confit Jersey Royals provided the perfect creamy counterpoint.
To ensure the wrong impression wasn’t given, a meaty plate next. From the specials board, if the rabbit with Coco de Paimpol beans is there, don’t sleep on it. Served as a whole saddle on the bone, it was superb, and the accompanying French heirloom beans from Brittany were as creamy as butter, viscous and earthy, those latter notes only amplified further by a few carefully placed girolles. What a gorgeous dish this was.
That negroni sbagliato we mentioned? It’s a beauty – all bitter-sweet sophistication with a playful prosecco fizz that somehow makes day drinking feel entirely acceptable. Given the basement’s history of capers and japes, we suspect the team here wouldn’t judge you for settling in for the long haul and ordering several. With the sun streaming in on a warm Bristol early evening, it all felt so right.
Ideal for some of Bristol’s most celebrated Jamaican food…
You can’t come to Bristol and not have some Jamaican food, the city having a large Jamaican population stemming from the UK’s efforts to rebuild after World War II. The British Nationality Act of 1948 gave citizens of the Commonwealth the right to settle in the UK, leading to the arrival of the Windrush generation, many of whom were Jamaican and made Bristol their home.
As more Jamaicans settled in Bristol, they formed communities and support networks which, in turn, attracted further migration from Jamaica. Over time, the Jamaican community in Bristol has made significant cultural contributions to the city, particularly in music, food, and festivals like the annual St Pauls Carnival, which celebrates African-Caribbean culture.
Images via @GullusKitchen
And so we wind up at Gullu’s Kitchen in Bristol’s Fishponds suburb, getting thoroughly seasoned with jerk smoke as we await arguably the city’s finest dose of grilled chicken, Caribbean or otherwise. A takeaway only joint (pedants, look away from the ‘best restaurants’part of the title), you’ll see the jerk pan – an oil drum that’s blackened from years of expert barbecuing – standing proudly outside Gullu’s, with several blistered legs being thoroughly doted on by a be-gloved, sometimes be-goggled cook.
God this is good chicken – nicely piquant from the house jerk sauce and charred beautifully. But don’t stop there; the brown stew chicken is phenomenal and arguably the most popular dish here. We’re also fans of the tender oxtail stew with butter beans. Loaded with big, bold Caribbean flavours, this rich, aromatic stew is meltingly tender and heady in its spicing. Have it over both chips and rice, and take your haul over to Coombe Brook Nature Reserve (a five minute walk) for a seriously elite picnic.
Ideal for thoughtful, produce-driven tasting menus from the restaurant’s own market garden…
This intimate 24-cover restaurant in Redland, helmed by chef-patron Jan Ostle and his partner Mary Wilson, offers one of Bristol’s most compelling farm-to-table experiences.
The menu here changes not just with the seasons but with each harvest, transformed daily based on what’s been pulled from the soil that morning. A six-course tasting menu (£73) showcases this bounty with remarkable finesse. The restaurant cultivates its own two-acre market garden in nearby Barrow Gurney, where the vast majority of vegetables, herbs and flowers that grace your plate are grown using regenerative farming techniques.
A recent visit in November brought with it a real treat of snails and wild garlic capers, a seasonally on-brand plate of blushing venison, beetroot and radicchio that was just about every shade of autumn you could imagine, and, best of all, a showstopping dessert of parsnip, apple and burnt cream, each dish speaking clearly of its origins.
Indeed, the cooking at Wilson’s strikes that rare balance between technical excellence (Ostle’s CV includes stints at The Square and The Hand & Flowers) and a deep respect for ingredients. The wine pairings (£50) are thoughtfully selected and, alongside that £73 tasting menu, the whole offering represents remarkably, laughably good value for all the quality that’s on show. It came as no surprise that the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star in the 2025 Guide.
That might have you making assumptions about the style of the place, but what’s particularly refreshing about Wilsons is how it manages to deliver fine dining without any of the stuffiness – the whitewashed dining room is understated, the service warm and knowledgeable. For those seeking a more accessible entry point, their three-course lunch menu (£35) offered Wednesday to Friday is another display of the excellent value here.
In 2021, the team expanded their operation by opening The Bread Shop just a few doors down, where you can sample their excellent sourdough and house-cured bacon milk buns. It’s also home to their fermentation and preserving projects, ensuring nothing from the market garden goes to waste.
This commitment to sustainability hasn’t gone unnoticed – Wilsons holds a Green Star too, recognition of their exceptional commitment to sustainable gastronomy. Yet perhaps more telling than any accolade is how beloved this place is by Bristol’s other chefs – always a good sign.
Ideal forItalian small plates and interesting wines…
This wine bar and kitchen, part of the esteemed Bianchis Group whose growing presence in the city can only be a good thing, only emerged in early 2022 but has already firmly found its feet in Bristol’s Old City.
Transforming from its previous incarnations as La Sorella, a deli and aperitivo bar, and then Bar Ripiena, the pandemic thwarted plans to reimagine the space as a lasagne bar (how good does that sound?), leading to the birth of Cotto, a cosy bolthole known for its chilled out vibe and homestyle Italian cooking.
During the day, the tight room exudes a serene atmosphere with its muted, tactile terracotta walls and framed cartoons, while in the evenings, it transforms into a lively space with a convivial glow that you notice from the road. Trust us; it beckons you in.
Patrons can choose to sit up at the bar, overlooking St Stephen’s Street, enjoying a glass of wine and a small plate, though the enticing menu might make settling for just that feel like a missed opportunity. From that menu, the beef shin lasagne is superb; cakey and upright, just as it should be, and positively humming from its rich, pastoral ragu and aged parmesan-spiked bechamel. For good measure, it sits atop a little pool of tomato compote, which brings a welcome jolt of acidity.
Before that (because it will finish you off), make sure you order the artichoke fritti, a beautiful big pile of the bastards that have been drizzled with hot honey and showered with a few cooling leaves of mint. Popping in for just a plate of these and a glass of something cloudy and funky is very much the vibe of the place.
Or, go larger from the ever changing lineup of pasta; a bowl of fregola with clams and datterini or bucatini alla nerano, if you like.
With a generous selection of wines (many biodynamic) available by the glass, Cotto is a thoroughly agreeable place to spend an evening, or even an hour.
Not all of Bristol’s very best dining goes down in the centre of town. Indeed, venture just a little further afield, and you’ll be rewarded with some truly excellent options for your supper.
Perhaps our favourite slightly out-of-town spot sits in the peaceful residential suburb of Henbury, around a half hour’s drive from the city centre. It’s the kind of mission you need to make to enjoy a truly ‘country pub’ experience so close to a major urban centre. And the Blaise Inn offers just that, with a side of order of culinary excellence thrown in for good measure.
This Michelin Bib Gourmand-awarded gastropub has quickly become a beloved fixture in the local dining scene since its opening in 2021, the work of Louise McCrimmon, a celebrated chef with previous as executive chef at Harvey Nichols back in central Bristol. Alongside her husband Ian and their neighbours Nicola and Peter Gilbert, McCrimmon has crafted a dining experience that feels like a glorious break from the hustle and bustle of the UK’s sixth largest city, even if it’s just for an afternoon.
That perception of escape certainly isn’t harmed by the Blaise Inn’s enviable vantage point just a mere stone’s throw from the picturesque Blaise Castle Estate, a sprawling 650-acre park owned by Bristol City Council. This proximity not only provides diners with a scenic backdrop but also imbues the inn with a sense of historical significance, as the estate itself was laid out by the renowned landscape designer Humphry Repton in the early 19th century.
The scene is well and truly set for a proper pub lunch, then, and the Blaise Inn duly delivers, with chef McCrimmon drawing on her classic French training and a steadfast commitment to seasonality to breathe new life into traditional pub dishes. So, that’s a half pint of gorgeously sweet, juicy prawns, served with a bracing but beautifully judged lemon aioli. Or, a perfect puck of ham hock terrine given lift off with a celeriac remoulade which was fresh and nutty, rather than cloying. A main course of slow cooked pork belly with radicchio and a nectarine and fennel dressing recently felt so succinct for a season just about to turn colder, and an on-point creme caramel with honey roast figs sealed the deal.
It pretty much goes without saying that the Sunday roast here is one of Bristol’s most celebrated. In the kegs, local favourite Fortitude, beautifully amber and supremely drinkable, flows with gusto. What’s not to love about the Blaise Inn?
Ideal for Middle Eastern sharing plates with the most singular of dinner views…
Lido is one of Bristol’s most unique venues for a meal, combining the charm of a restored Victorian swimming pool with the culinary delights of a top-tier restaurant. It’s a match made in heaven.
Sitting pretty in the heart of Clifton, one of Bristol’s most picturesque quarters, Lido offers more than just a place to swim; it’s an urban oasis where you can indulge in a spa treatment, relax in the sauna or hot tub, and then treat your taste buds to an exquisite meal. Or, do it the other way round, of course, leaving a little time for your food to go down before diving in.
Indigestion be damned; Lido’s history dates back to 1850 when it first opened its doors as a public swimming bath. After changing hands several times and even facing the threat of redevelopment into flats, it was finally purchased by Arne Ringer in 2004. Since then, it has been transformed into a place for Bristolians to relax and to gorge, equally.
The poolside menu at Lido takes on a Middle Eastern inflection – light, fresh and lively, and kinda perfect if you’re taking a dip after – with wood-fired flatbreads forming the anchor around which the seasonal small plates revolve.
Though not strictly vegetarian by any means, this is without doubt one of the best restaurants in the city for veggies, with some truly superlative vegetable-led cooking on show. Don’t pass over the beetroot and ajo blanco dish, the root vegetable ember roasted until close to collapse, propped up by a rich, tart emulsion of almonds and garlic. Just incredible. Some of that superb flatbread for dredging seals the deal.
All that said, when protein hits the grill here, magic happens. On a visit in the summer, charcoal-grilled onglet dressed in an anchovy, garlic-and chilli butter was gnarly in all the right places and as tender as you like in others, proving once again that this type of cut is so much more satisfying than a clinical fillet. Sea ass, given a similar rough and ready treatment on the grill, ends up being just as good as that onglet.
Appropriate for dining next to a shimmering, summery body of water, Lido’s selection of ice creams and sorbets always hit the spot, too. The Pedro Ximenez and raisin affair is particularly indulgent, and moody enough to feel suitable even in the depths of winter.
Lido offers a range of packages that include swimming, eating and massages, the most popular being the ‘Swim and Lunch’ package that includes use of the pool and spa, followed by a two-course lunch. What a lovely way to spend a rest day.
Ideal for indulgent escapism in butter, garlic and cream…
Bristol’s Westbury Park is the very definition of leafy, laid back suburb, all Victorian terraces, premium prams, and the chatter of folk who don’t have much place to be. If there’s not a GAIL’s somewhere, there should be.
It should come as no surprise, then, that Westbury Park boasts one of the most celebrated neighbourhood bistros in the city. Scrap that; the country. At chef Freddy Bird’s Littlefrench, the vibe is all about unpretentious, flavour-packed French country cooking and quality bottles of quaffable wine whose prices are similarly easy to swallow. Some are even sub £30, which, in today’s economy, is becoming increasingly unheard of.
Indeed, slipping into the banquette seating for a cosy, candlelit evening is one of our guiltiest midweek treats; escapism in its purest form. Lose yourself in the roast queen scallops, five of them served in the shell, anointed with an opulent sauternes butter sauce. A supplement of Sturia Oscietra caviar is an indulgence, sure, but that’s why you’re here, right?
From the mains, an indulgent and elegant bowl of hake, clams and monks beard, with a rich emulsion of cider and crème fraîche sauce swirling around them, pulls together a happy collection of briny ingredients. On a more recent visit (yep, we’ve been here a few times), the whole roast partridge with bone marrow bread sauce is all tied together with a mouth-coating, caramel-like armagnac jus. Yep, your cardiologist isn’t going to thank Freddy Bird, but who gives a fuck when the food is this good.
As you reel from the fat in every form and the casual swearing, don’t forget to save room for dessert. For another dependable dose of fat, Littlefrench’s extraordinarily elegant creme brulee is a sensuous, light and lovely dream. The chocolate mousse is dark and properly rich, sure, but it’s also almost cleansing in its simplicity. The fact it’s served in a puddle of cream does no harm. You might need stretching out at the end of all this, but as you stare at the chilly night sky from your prone position, you’ll feel very satisfied indeed.
Interestingly, in 2024 the team behind Little French opened a new restaurant; the enthusiastically reviewed second act 1 York Place, a restaurant that places a keener focus on pan-European dishes and seafood.
Ideal for beautifully big-hearted plates in the most intimate of dining spaces…
Nabbing a booking in this compact, 14-cover shipping container restaurant in Bristol’s Wapping Wharf certainly isn’t easy. But spare a thought for the man behind the stoves; there’s even less room out back. How he manages to coax such flavour and finesse from such a small space is a wonder.
That man is Elliott Lidstone, a former head chef of L’Ortolan and The Empress pub in Hackney, BOX-E exudes a quiet ambition that feels quintessentially Bristolian – the minimalist, utilitarian interiors and sparse menu descriptors belying the complexity found on the plate. Sure, a dish of hake, butter beans and cauliflower may sound simple – beige, even – but really, was anything but. Decadent and lively, and with the fillet of hake cooked just under, as it should be, this was a sublime bit of fish cookery, bolstered by a caramelised cauliflower puree that brought depth to the plate.
Images via @Box-E
Desserts at BOX-E are simple yet satisfying, with chef Lidstone’s panna cotta always a winner. So much so, in fact, that there are often two on the menu – right now, one is centred around vanilla, the other black treacle. Order one each and you’ve got yourself some ying and yang vibes right there. Indeed, while the restaurant may not have the capacity for intricate pastry work, the desserts are still crafted with care and attention, ensuring a delightful end to your meal.
BOX-E is more than just a restaurant; it’s a testament to the spirit of Bristol – innovative, ambitious, and unafraid to do things differently.
Ideal for superb vegetable-led – rather than solely vegetarian – cooking in a shipping container…
We’re sticking around in Wapping Wharf for a feast of vegetable-centric dishes next, at Root, one of the South West’s most celebrated restaurants. Root’s ethos revolves around promoting sustainable food and fostering direct trade between local producers, suppliers, and chefs. This commitment to sustainability and local sourcing is not just a marketing gimmick but a core principle that shapes the menu and wider operations, particularly their celebration of seasonal vegetables.
Here, prettily presented plates which vibrate with the colour of fresh produce and don’t sacrifice anything on flavour that just keep coming. We particularly love their wicked way with barbecued leaves and greens; right now, a charred hispi cabbage is served dressed Caesar salad-style, and the results are (predictably) magnificent. Perhaps even better, and singing with the season, is a mushroom and lentil kiev, giving new meaning to the Come Dine With Me favourite of garlic butter mushrooms. It sits on a pillowy cloud of celeriac puree, and sits under a tumble of piquant pickled shiitake. The balance of this one is perfect.
If the weather’s looking good (yep, we realise we’re feasting on late autumnal bits here), try to nab a seat out on the small terrace area; it boasts fantastic views of the harbourside.
Idealfor shelling, sucking and slurping your way through Spanish prawns in a variety of preparations…
Please; just one more meal in a shipping container before we leave this shimmering corner of Bristol. And so it is to Gambas, another of Wapping Wharf’s heavy-hitters.
A tapas bar (well, shipping container) that puts all things prawn on a pedestal, there are a few better ways to spend an evening than here, with your sleeves rolled up and your inhibitions down, sucking the head juice out of some salty, blistered wild red prawns.
Keep that blistered, off-bitter vibe going with stunning Cornish sardines that are tossed on the plancha and served with a simple dressing of garlic, parsley and lemon.
For those not in thrall to the rusty flavours of the sea, there’s still plenty to enjoy from Gambas’ De La Tierra (‘of the earth’) section of the menu, which despite its rather lofty subheader, is essentially a catalogue of tapas bar classics. The fried aubergine with molasses is exceptional.
It’s also great to see Idiazabal – the smoky, gamey Basque soft cheese – on the menu here. It represents a fine way to finish a meal that’s been all about luxuriating in shellfish.
Ideal for trying Bristol’s most enduring Michelin-star…
Weirdly for a city which, until recently, was decorated with several, Bristol now only boasts two Michelin stars. One of those (and certainly of of Bristol’s best restaurants) is here, at Bulrush.
The brainchild of chef George Livesey, whose natural talent and innovative approach to cooking have earned him widespread acclaim, it’s a joyous affair. His classical training with the Roux brothers and stints at L’Enclume and St John is evident in the elegant nine-course menu here (clocking in at an eminently reasonable £90, incidentally), which showcases his mastery of precision technique and refined, defined flavour.
The restaurant’s name, Bulrush, is intriguingly derived from a type of marsh plant, Scirpus lacustris, traditionally used for making mats and chair seats. This reflects the restaurant’s ethos of simplicity, authenticity, and a reverence for nature, an outlook highlighted further still in the whitewashed brick dining room.
There’s no bells and whistles here, that’s for certain, with all eyes falling on the plate and its celebration of just one or two bang-in-season ingredients. That’s not to say that flavour combinations here aren’t innovative and, occasionally, thought-provoking; an amuse bouche of crab paired with chamomile-adjacent pineappleweed is a wonderful case in point. Ditto the current headliner course of duck breast cooked to a perfect blushing pink cuisson and sitting beside a fermented peach, giving the most beautiful balance is umami richness and complex acidity.
The wine flight is just as carefully composed, and well worth the £65 for a raft of interesting, intricate primarily new world offerings. For us, Bulrush is the best fine dining experience in Bristol, and one we keep going back to time and time again.
Ideal for some of the country’s best fish and chips, enjoyed next to a shimmering body of water…
This newly-opened, family-run establishment, sitting by the Cumberland Basin and enjoying fantastic views of the water, is the brainchild (not their actual child – he’s the eponymous Noah) of dynamic husband-and-wife duo Dan and Joie Rosser. Their passion for showcasing the best of British seafood is palpable in every dish they serve, whether it’s the exemplary fish and chips that is Noah’s signature or the Cornish lemon sole, grilled whole on the bone.
Either way, rest assured that this is as fresh as fish comes, sourced from day boats from Devon and Cornwall and cooked sympathetically and with maximum respect. All you need now is a bowl of fluffy, thick cut chips and a beer or two. Aaaah; I think we might just stay here awhile.
Ideal for an expertly conceived ‘Britalian’ dining experience…
Another family-run operation named after the co-owners’ son; Sonny Stores.
Here, River Cafe alumnus Pegs Quinn and his wife Mary Glynn run one of the city’s most cherished recent openings, with a broadly ‘Britalian’ menu showcasing fantastic local produce cooked with reverence in a tightly-packed, always busy dining room.
Though the building itself may be intimate, it houses a genuinely excellent dining experience. Not perhaps as pasta heavy as some of the other great Italian restaurants in Bristol, here the vibe is fresh, light and largely vegetable-led. All that said, perhaps our favourite dish in recent memory was an offal-based pasta dish; the superlative chicken liver ragu served over freshly made, perfectly al dente pappardelle and sitting under wafts of 24 month aged parmesan. What a gently funky, immensely satisfying dish.
Vegetarians will eat very well here, though, with the farinata (chickpea pancake) and charred friggitelli peppers particularly good, and the perfect accompaniment to a cold one, just as it’s done in Bel Paese.
The pizzettas are quite rightly the stuff of legend, too. If the taleggio with burnt onion, sage and hot honey, and a cheeky chilli bedded into the cheese, is on the menu, order it.
End with an affogato, just as we’re going to do (here the espresso is poured over creamy stracciatella ice cream), and you’ve got yourself one of the most gratifying meals in Bristol. So gratifying, in fact, that we might just need a minute…
Authenticity is the name of the game at this Redland institution, where the owners cite regular staff trips to Spain as the inspiration for their steadfast takes on classic tapas dishes.
If you’re hoping to simply swan in off the street like you were on a merry bar crawl in Seville, be warned; Bravas is reliably packed like Ortiz sardines pretty much every evening, except on Sundays, when it’s closed to recover from the week’s hangover. Fortunately, the place opens at midday and runs until midnight without pause for the remaining six days, so there’s always room if you arrive at a traditionally ‘off peak’ hour (4:47pm, if you’re asking). You can, of course, book ahead, but that rather kills the romance, don’t you think?
Anyway, the wait is richly rewarded, with highlights like cod bronzed from the plancha and served with a properly bracing mojo verde, or a really lovely little cazuela of chorizo braised in cider, the juices, as always, the best part. The patatas bravas from which the restaurant takes its names are a faithful rendition of a classic, too. A signature sherry negroni or two seals the deal, and has us still propping up the bar at close (sorry guys!).
Vietnamese food feels criminally underrepresented in Bristol, with many lovers of pho, banh mi and the rest often heading out of town and to the acclaimed Noya’s Kitchen in Bath for their fix of the good stuff.
The Saigon Kitchen is changing all that. Chef Trung, originally from a small fishing village close to Halong Bay in Vietnam’s north, is the man at the stoves here, delivering time-honoured, broadly Northern Vietnamese recipes to the Redland faithful.
Indeed, despite the restaurant’s name, it’s Hanoi’s streetfood that is most well represented here, with a very welcome, very delicious appearance of the iconic cha ca la vong a menu highlight. Here, chunks of white fish are marinated in galangal and turmeric before being fried in a tangle of spring onions and dill, the marinade turning the oil a delicious shade of brass. Enjoy with fresh rice noodles and heaps of herbs for one of Hanoi’s most lauded bites. The version here is superb.
Of course, there’s pho too, here the savoury, sparse Northern version that has the miraculous ability of dusting off even the most brutal of Walking Whirlwind hangovers. Even better is the bun cha, the essential Hanoi lunch dish of beautifully sweet and caramelised barbecued pork patties and slices of belly, fresh rice noodles and herbs, all brought together with a sweet and sour fish sauce dressing. Banging.
If it’s a hair of the dog kind of situation (not sure why we’re suddenly assuming it is), then the Saigon Kitchen is open from midday on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, with bottles of Saigon and Hanoi beer (the former trumps the latter) available for £6.
Ideal for Bristol’s newest (and best) gastropub experience…
Billed as an ‘ale and food house’ (when did ‘gastropub’ become a pejorative?), The Clifton, much like the Devonshire in Soho that opened at a similar time in 2023, just seems to understand pubs and the type of food people want to eat in those pubs.
Its instant success should come as no surprise; there’s serious pedigree behind the Clifton. Run by Sarah and Tom Watts-Jones, who are also behind two successful venues in Wales – the Heathcock in Cardiff and the Hare & Hounds in Aberthin – this place just exudes warmth and hospitality, with a dog-friendly front bar still encouraging drinkers to drop in for a plate of halved langoustines with thirds of lemon, and a spacious room out back for the finer dining elements.
One of the key changes since the Watts-Jones takeover was the introduction of a custom-made Ox Grill in the kitchen, with the majority of the meat and fish at the Clifton now cooked over an open fire. With an emphasis on seasonal British produce, woodfire cooking and sharing dishes, this is one amiable place to spend an afternoon, picking over crispy pig’s cheek or diving face first into one of the signature ox cheek and pickled walnut pies.
End it all (don’t; there’s so much still to live for) with the pub’s indulgent Guinness steamed pudding with milk ice cream, allowing the ice cream to melt enough to create a frothy head on top of the cake, of course, and think about how there are fewer better places in the world than a British pub with a kitchen on song.
Ideal for Italian small plates and interesting wines (hang on, haven’t we already said that? Bristol is that kind of place)…
Back in the older part of the city, close to the Hippodrome Theatre, Marmo is a hip (do hip people say ‘hip’?) osteria-cum-wine-bar that has quickly become a favourite among locals and national restaurant reviewers alike.
The kitchen, led by Cosmo Sterck, focuses on a concise seasonal menu of Italian dishes that are both flavourful and beautifully presented. The wine selection, curated by Lily Sterck, has some interesting, sometimes exclusive drops, with several available by the glass.
Whilst Jay Rayner was certainly right to call Marmo ‘an absolute corker’ (not a comment on their inept opening of those interesting drops, we hope), you might need a second opinion. Find it in our roundup of Bristol’s best Italian restaurants, if the mood takes you.
Ideal for serious Jamaican cooking and a rum list that’ll make your head spin…
Sitting pretty at the livelier end of Stokes Croft, Caribbean Croft has been doing things its own way since 2017. Every dish here comes from Ms Cat’s recipe book – family secrets passed down through generations that you won’t find anywhere else in Bristol. And yes, we have been coming here so much lately that we’re now on first name terms with the owner…
The curry goat is exceptional – tender meat that’s had hours on the stove, in a sauce that’s more about warmth and depth than raw heat. Still, that chilli heat does undulate, bringing about a gentle sweat on the brow rather than making your actual hair follicles hurt. A plate of peppered Appleton coconut steak shows similar patience in the kitchen, the meat given time to properly take on the rum and coconut milk it’s cooked in. The gravy alone is worth the admission fee (there’s isn’t one, and we don’t know why we said that).
For smaller appetites, the saltfish fritters are spot on – crisp, light, and lifted by red onion and scotch bonnet. Follow those with ackee and saltfish, Jamaica’s national dish done proper here with seasoned callaloo and green banana on the side.
What sets Caribbean Croft apart, though, is that rum collection. We’re talking over 100 bottles, ranging from easy-sipping standards to serious aged stuff that climbs past £40 a shot. The bar team knows their stuff – let them guide you through it. Their signature Caribbean Croft cocktail blends three different rums with grapefruit and cranberry, while the Guinness punch is a proper taste of Jamaica.
They’re open late (11pm most nights), but the kitchen closes at 9:30pm except Sundays when everything winds down at 7pm. Book ahead for dinner – this place fills up fast, especially on weekends when they open from noon.
Ideal for attentive service and plates of Mediterraneanlove and lightness…
We’re massive fans of Bristol’s premier prawn purveyors over at Gambas in Wapping Wharf, as we’ve made clear in this article already. So, when we heard that Mark Chapman, a man with a significant tenure as Gambas executive chef under his belt, and wife Karen had opened COR in Bemmy in late 2022, our interest wasn’t just piqued; it was aroused.
To say that COR found its feet fast would be an understatement. It was recognised by the Michelin Guide with a Bib Gourmand only a few months after opening, the red book rightly remarking on the restaurant’s ‘contagious positivity’. This bright, breezy outlook is found both in the room and on the plate, with tender, perceptive service a hallmark here, and dishes that represent something of a love letter to the Mediterranean, seen through a British lens and delivered with flair and creativity.
The seasonal canelé is a signature, and a lovely, anchoring way of checking in with where Bristol produce is currently at. Right now, that burnished, striated pastry cylinder has been filled with whipped goat’s cheese and wild thyme. It sits in a pool of vivid magenta-hued beetroot, and it’s one perfectly poised mouthful.
You could order one of these, a plate of Wye Valley asparagus with lemon butter sauce, and some Roman-style artichokes, and be very happy indeed, luxuriating in just how perfectly Spring-like and seasonal your order is, but that would be to miss out on the show stopping larger plates.
The Iberico pork presa blushes pink in a way that would scare your ma but eats beautifully, with its accompanying panzanella salad of Isle of Wight tomatoes and marinated anchovies. A little quince jam sends everything on its way and into the arms of the waiting sourdough, no doubt smeared with COR’s amazing black garlic butter if you’ve got any sense.
Another firm favourite on a recent visit was the Hereford beef onglet with burnt shallot, hazelnut beurre noisette, gorgonzola and jus, the enjoyably chewy steak revealing its rich, brooding flavour more with every bite.
Pasta is done superbly here too, unsurprisingly. A dish of tagliolini with Dorset clams, bottarga with calabrian chilli had my dining partner positively cooing, its drifts of cured fish liver adding umami and funk in all the right places.
Yep, COR is a place where the finer details have been taken care of, where the cooking is truly out of the top drawer, but the vibe remains refreshingly laid back and casual, which is exactly what you want from a neighbourhood restaurant, don’t you think? Not just one of 22, COR is perhaps our very favourite restaurant in Bristol.
And exciting news for Spring 2025: The team behind COR have just opened a more Italo-centric restaurant in that ol’ IDEAL favourite, Wapping Wharf. Called RAGÙ, we’re due a visit later this month. We’ll let you know how it goes!
Souk Kitchen has established itself as a standout destination in Bristol’s dining scene, offering a menu that thoughtfully combines Middle Eastern and North African culinary traditions with high-quality local ingredients. It’s a match made in heaven.
Sitting pretty opposite the always-rammed Tobacco Factory Theatres in ever-buzzier Southville (Sonny Stores, also part of our IDEAL 22, is just two minutes down the road if you’re up for a tasty one-two punch), SOUK Kitchen is perhaps a restaurant best enjoyed in the daytime. During the lunch hours, the room feels light and bright, a vibe that feels in synergy with what’s on the plate.
The restaurant is renowned for its freshly flavoured, punchy but comforting dishes, such as the Anatolian lamb yahni and the chicken tagine with ginger and prune, which showcase the depth and diversity of the regions’ flavours. The ever-changing seasonal menu ensures a fresh and dynamic dining experience, with the mezze selection always a treat.
The popular weekend brunch features robust options like the Tunisian shakshuka, alongside a well-executed bloody Mary. SOUK Kitchen’s dedication to local sourcing is evident, with meats and breads procured from nearby suppliers, reflecting a commitment to community and quality.
Following its success, SOUK Kitchen expanded with a café and deli in Clifton, mirroring the original location’s menu and offering the added convenience of a retail space for their unique spice blends. The mothership is still the one we’re drawn to, however.
The drinks, including a wonderfully floral quince martini and very grown-up tasting blood orange margarita, complement the vivid, vibrant food with a similarly creative touch. What a lovely restaurant SOUK Kitchen is, and certainly of Bristol’s best.
As much as we’d love to keep eating around Bristol’s best restaurants until we actually die, we’re pretty stuffed, sleepy and ready to phone in this last entry to our IDEAL 22.
All you need to know about Spiny Lobster on Whiteladies Road is that it’s both a fishmongers and grill, with all the freshness and smoke that suggests. Indeed, the fish and shellfish here is sourced daily from Brixham in Devon, and the charcoal grill is always burning. It is, quite simply, a glorious place to dine for those who live all things seafood.
What do you get the petrol-head who has it all? Well, however much we’d love to get our car-loving loved one a new set of wheels, we just can’t justify that level of extravagance. That’s a convoluted way of putting “we can’t afford it”, by the way.
Not to worry. There are plenty of affordable, appropriate gifts for lovers of all things engine, wheels and petrol. All it takes is a little initiative, and getting to the end of this article. With that in mind, here are 11 car gadgets and accessories that will transform your next road trip.
HUDWAY Cast Heads-Up Display
Safeguard your journey with the HUDWAY Cast Heads-Up Display. This device will project your smartphone screen onto your windshield, allowing you to access your navigation, calls, or music without taking your eyes off the road. Because safety should always come first, regardless of how freewheelin’ a road trip is.
Handpresso Auto Hybrid Coffee Maker
We’ve all been there on a long distance drive, wrestling with yawns and longing for a hard hit of the good stuff to keep us awake, alert and accident free. Yep, sometimes you need a good cup of Joe to keep you on the road and safe. And there’s no shame in admitting that, right?
Why wait for pit stops when you can brew your espresso on the go? The Handpresso Auto Hybrid Coffee Maker plugs into your car’s cigarette lighter and brews a barista-quality espresso in just 2 minutes.
And most importantly, don’t forget to pack the cups!
There’s nothing worse than your iPhone dying just as the GPS announces that crucial turn in unfamiliar territory. ESRTECH’s Qi2 & MagSafe car chargers solve this modern motoring nightmare with magnetic precision. These clever devices snap your iPhone 12 or later into the perfect charging position, delivering up to 15W of wireless power while keeping your phone secure even on bumpy roads. Whether you prefer vent-mounted, dashboard, or windscreen options, the strong magnetic hold means no more fumbling with cables at traffic lights.
Some models even feature cooling systems to prevent overheating during those scorching summer drives. Simply put, it’s the difference between arriving with a dead phone and arriving ready for whatever comes next.
RoadPro Slow Cooker
Curb your hunger pangs with the RoadPro slow cooker, an ideal gadget for traveler foodies. Simply plug it into your car’s power outlet and enjoy home-cooked meals even on the open road.
Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler
Storing beverages and small food items can be a challenge during a road trip. But with Cooluli Mini Fridge Electric Cooler, you can easily maintain the freshness and temperature of your snacks and drinks.
Garim Speak Plus Dashboard
Music can affect your body’s chemistry. Indeed, loud music can increase your adrenaline levels, which will help you keep awake during a long, boring drive. However, the last thing you want to do when driving is fiddle with the music, scrolling through your Spotify library in search of that song. This leads to distraction and a compromise on safety.
Enter the Garmin Speak Plus which has all of the advantages of a regular dashcam, but also full access to Alexa and music. Keep your hands on the wheel and you can use your voice play music, check the weather, traffic or where the nearest petrol station is or even get her to tell you entertaining jokes. Moreover, you can simply ask Alexa to get Garmin to give you turn-by-turn directions and it features that all-important dashcam for added safety. Is there anything she/it/they can’t do?
Fobo Tire Plus
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is crucial for a safe and smooth road trip. With Fobo Tire Plus, you can monitor your car’s tire pressure in real-time, receiving updates on your smartphone.
Misplacing keys or wallets on a road trip can be a real stressor. Tile Mate Tracker comes to rescue in such scenarios. Attach this compact device to your essentials, and you can easily track them using the Tile app on your smartphone.
Autel MaxiCom MK808 OBD2 Scanner
This gadget is a must-have for those who like to be prepared for everything. The Autel MaxiCom MK808 OBD2 Scanner makes diagnosing and troubleshooting car problems a breeze, ensuring that small issues don’t escalate into bigger problems halfway through your trip.
Semi-Autonomous Driving Systems
Semi-autonomous driving systems are the zeitgeist of auto technology, working as an extra set of eyes and hands on the road. Companies like Tesla with their ‘Autopilot’ and GM’s ‘Super Cruise’ offer semi-autonomous driving features that can control steering, acceleration, and braking in certain circumstances, making long-haul travel less tiring.
These systems also come with safety features like lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control and collision avoidance systems, adding an extra layer of security and peace of mind. Perhaps the leader in its field is Nissan’s ProPILOT Assist, which represents superb value for money, and is easily serviceable too.
Inflatable Car Bed
Let’s go all out here. The convenience of dinner and hot drinks is covered. But is that enough? Now, let’s turn this damn thing into a bedroom, too. An inflatable car mattress allows you to turn the back seat of your car into a bed when you need a kip in no time. Whilst this is a matter of personal preference, some of the best car air mattresses on the market include the Umbrauto SUV Air Mattress, the QDH SUV Air Mattress, and the Rightline Gear Universal-Fit SUV Air Mattress.
Whichever kind of mattress you choose, you’ll find the addition to your armoury super useful for quick naps to get your energy back up, but also handy if you’re looking for a budget way to sleep while you’re on your road trip.
And with all of this sorted, we’ll see you on the open road!
With its magnificent cathedral, Roman ruins, and cobbled streets, St Albans is one of the UK’s most easy-on-the-eye cities. This ancient settlement, Britain’s first Christian martyr’s final resting place (bit of a complicated claim, that one) is quite rightly popular with tourists, both local and international.
In terms of a food scene, that regular influx of visitors can go one of two ways; either, a city full of tourist traps and chains. Or, a place of genuinely unique, largely independent places to eat. Fortunately, in the case of St Albans, the latter is true.
The city’s restaurant landscape has flourished in recent years, driven by passionate restaurateurs who’ve recognised that St Albans diners demand more than mediocrity. From innovative pizza makers in village outposts to AA Rosette-winning chefs crafting seasonal menus that cherish local ingredients, the cathedral city now offers remarkable dining experiences that draw food lovers from across the Home Counties.
Whether you’re seeking a post-shopping bite near the bustling market or a celebration dinner worthy of the city’s historic grandeur, St Albans delivers. Here are the best restaurants in St Albans, Hertfordshire.
THOMPSON St Albans
Ideal for fine dining that doesn’t take itself too seriously…
Phil Thompson’s restaurant occupies a charming site comprised of four cottages that predate World War II, and the intimate dining rooms still retain that residential feel. Having earned three AA Rosettes in 2017 and retaining them since, THOMPSON St Albans has become the city’s standard-bearer for serious cooking, though you’d never guess it from the relaxed atmosphere.
Thompson’s menu changes with the seasons, reflecting his commitment to working with the finest British produce. The cooking here combines classical technique with modern sensibilities – dishes like the slow-cooked duck leg with fondant potato and cherry jus showcase technical precision without unnecessary flourishes. Thompson’s wine list includes some brilliant lesser-known producers alongside more familiar names, each carefully chosen to complement his food.
The restaurant’s layout creates distinct moods depending on where you sit. The front room feels intimate and conversation-friendly, whilst the conservatory offers a brighter atmosphere with French doors opening onto a Victorian-style courtyard complete with trailing ivy and jasmine. For special occasions, this terrace provides one of St Albans’ most romantic dining settings.
Thompson’s prix fixe menus represent excellent value for cooking of this calibre. The three-course dinner menu at £79 might seem steep, but the quality of ingredients and execution justifies every penny. There are more sprawling tasting menus too, with a 9 course extravaganza clocking in at £159 for those looking for a major blowout.
Service is attentive without being intrusive, with staff who clearly understand – and are infatuated with – both the food and wine on offer.
Ideal for gastropub dining with serious beer credentials…
Sean Hughes and his family have transformed this beautiful 15th-century Tudor building into one of St Albans’ most beloved establishments. Featured in the Good Food Guide for three consecutive years and the winner of Best Front of House Team at the Top 50 Gastropubs awards in 2022, Dylans proves that great food and great beer can coexist beautifully.
The pub’s commitment to craft beer runs deep – they were among St Albans’ first establishments to champion independent breweries, building relationships that allow them to regularly feature limited-edition beers that beer enthusiasts travel specifically to try. Their selection spans everything from sour beers to New England pale ales, with daily updates posted on Untappd for the seriously beer-obsessed.
But the real star here is the food, and the txuleta prime rib, in particular. It’s the restaurant’s signature dish for a reason, arriving finished with rich brown butter gravy and those essential beef fat triple-cooked chips. It’s become something of a local legend, and rightly so – the beef is well aged, the cooking spot-on, and the presentation unfussy yet impressive in its confidence. At £105 for two people to share, it’s not cheap, but when that hefty chop hits the table, the fat yellow and melting, the steak blushing, the gravy glossy, you won’t resent the price. Oh, and the accompanying beef fat chips aren’t half bad, either.
Head chef Josh Searle’s menu extends well beyond that famous rib, with seasonal British dishes that demonstrate genuine skill. They are especially good at seafood here with hand-dived scallops from Orkney often starring on the menu.
The restaurant operates with two distinct areas: a snacking menu available in the front bar, with perfectly pulled pints and all, and a full à la carte service in the back dining room. This flexibility makes Dylans equally suitable for a quick Guinness and bite or a full evening out.
The building itself, with its low ceilings and original Tudor features, creates that genuinely historic atmosphere you can’t fake. Tables are at a premium, particularly on weekends, so booking ahead is wise. The acoustics can get lively when the place is full, but that’s part of the charm – this is a pub that feels genuinely lived-in. And anyway, it can be quite nice to lean into your dining companion from time to time, don’t you think?
Ideal for sustainable dining with views of the cathedral…
Situated next to St Albans Cathedral with lovely views over the Vintry Garden, Lussmanns represents everything admirable about modern British dining. Their commitment to sustainability runs deeper than most – 95% of ingredients are British-grown or produced, all fish carries Marine Stewardship Council approval, and their beef and mutton is organic.
The restaurant occupies three floors of a modern building, creating different moods depending on your preference. The ground floor bustles with energy, the upper floors offer more intimacy, and there’s a private dining area for special occasions. Large windows throughout ensure the cathedral views are maximised, particularly magical during evening service when the ancient stones are illuminated.
Chef Nick McGeown’s menu changes regularly to reflect seasonal availability, but certain dishes have become signatures. The organic mutton kofta with brioche bun and cucumber mint raita showcases British lamb in an unexpected preparation, whilst the fish dishes – perhaps Cornish monkfish with samphire and brown shrimp – demonstrate why their MSC certification matters in terms of quality as well as ethics.
The beer selection showcases four local Hertfordshire brewers: Farrs Brew, Mad Squirrel, Zealous, and Three Brewers. These aren’t token gestures towards localism – each beer is carefully chosen to complement the food, and the Mad Squirrel pilsner pairs brilliantly with their fish dishes. Yes, they love their beer in St Albans.
Lussmanns also embraces St Albans’ jazz heritage with live performances every Wednesday evening. The combination of excellent food, sustainable practices, and live music creates an atmosphere that feels uniquely St Albans – sophisticated but never stuffy, with genuine care for both community and environment.
Wednesday evening jazz sessions require advance booking, as the intimate setting fills quickly with both locals and visitors drawn by the music as much as the food.
Ideal for discovering why pizza enthusiasts travel from across the country…
James Woodley and Grace Surman’s tiny pizzeria in Chiswell Green has achieved something remarkable: national recognition for a restaurant that barely seats ten people inside. Their New Haven-style pizzas, with their distinctive thin, crispy, and charred crusts, have attracted attention from London food writers and even earned them a spot on Gozney’s international ‘How to Pizza’ YouTube series alongside celebrated pizzaiolos from Brooklyn and Los Angeles.
The operation could hardly be more humble – five small tables inside, a few more outside, and a secondhand pizza oven that Woodley has mastered over years of patient practice. But the pizza that emerges from that oven justifies every bit of hype. The base achieves that perfect New Haven combination of crispy bottom and chewy edges, with the kind of char that speaks to serious high-heat cooking.
Woodley’s background includes time at some of London’s most respected kitchens, including the Camberwell Arms and Brunswick House, and that experience shows in the attention to detail. The dough uses a blend of high-protein bread flour and locally milled flour from Redbournbury Mill, fermented in two stages for optimal flavour development. The tomatoes are the best Italian varieties, milled fresh and topped with herbs post-bake.
Their collaboration approach has become part of Gracey’s story. Recent partnerships with The Boot Cantina (just a couple of paragraphs away) produced a Mexican-inspired special pizza that had St Albans food lovers queuing for tables. It’s this willingness to experiment and collaborate that keeps the menu interesting despite its deliberately narrow focus.
The online ordering system is essential – walk-ins face uncertain waits, and the most popular pizzas often sell out. The restaurant’s popularity has reached the point where devoted customers wake early to secure slots on the click-and-collect system. For a restaurant that opened in 2021, this level of dedication from customers speaks volumes. There is now a second branch in that there London.
Ideal for excellent Mexican food in St Albans’ most historic setting…
The Hughes family have created something genuinely special at The Boot: world-class birria tacos served in a pub where the War of the Roses allegedly began outside the front door. Head chef Lloyd Pell’s passion for Mexican cooking has transformed this medieval Market Place pub into St Albans’ unlikely Mexican food destination.
The birria tacos alone justify the journey, even from further afield than St Albans itself. Made with slow-cooked beef shin rather than the traditional goat, the meat arrives tender and deeply flavoured, served in fried tortillas with the cooking broth alongside for dipping. It’s skilled Mexican technique producing intensely satisfying results – messy eating that delivers powerful, distinctive flavours (and a ruined white t-shirt) with every bite.
Pell’s menu extends well beyond the famous birria, though. The padron peppers arrive properly blistered and generously seasoned, whilst the spiced cauliflower vegan taco comes piled so high it challenges your taco-folding skills. The corn cob brushed with chipotle crema and parmesan has become an Instagram favourite, but more importantly, it tastes brilliant.
The pub setting actually enhances rather than detracts from the Mexican food. Low ceilings create that warm, convivial atmosphere that makes tacos taste even better, whilst the historic surroundings provide conversational fodder between courses. The beer selection includes some excellent choices – Harvey’s Sussex Best pairs surprisingly well with spicy food – and the background music tends towards classics (Blur and Pulp during our visit).
Monthly vinyl nights with special one-off tacos show the restaurant’s commitment to being more than just a food destination. This is community dining at its best, with the Hughes family creating a space that works equally well for casual drinks or serious taco consumption.
The combination of historic setting, excellent beer, and genuinely skilled Mexican cooking makes The Boot genuinely unique. It’s one of our favourites places to eat in St Albans, no question.
Ideal for breakfast in a 16th-century watermill setting…
Housed within the Grade II listed Kingsbury Watermill overlooking the River Ver, The Waffle House has been feeding St Albans since 1978. The location alone makes this worth visiting – a working watermill in the tranquil Conservation Area of St Michael’s village, just a ten-minute walk from the city centre but feeling utterly rural and very tranquil indeed.
The family business specialises in Belgian waffles made with organically grown flour from the 1000-year-old Redbournbury Mill, creating a local supply chain that stretches back centuries. Both sweet and savoury options cater to different appetites, with daily specials ensuring regular customers never get bored.
The savoury waffles deserve particular attention. Options like ratatouille with goat’s cheese or hummus with avocado transform the waffle from dessert into a substantial meal. The fried chicken waffle brings big New York energy, whilst the daily specials might include anything from smoked salmon to full cooked breakfast ingredients.
Sweet options follow Belgian traditions but with regional, seasonal touches where possible. The banoffee waffle remains their most Instagrammed dish, arriving with rich toffee sauce and fresh banana that hasn’t been allowed to go brown. Seasonal fruit features heavily in summer specials, making the most of Hertfordshire’s excellent fruit farms.
The dining room occupies the original mill building, with the water wheel still turning daily to maintain the historic atmosphere. Tables by the windows offer lovely views over the River Ver, whilst the outdoor seating area provides al fresco dining when weather permits.
The Waffle House operates primarily on a first-come, first-served basis, though they do accept reservations for Friday and Saturday evenings from 5pm for tables of 4 or more. This can mean queues at weekend brunch times for walk-ins. However, the wait rarely exceeds 20 minutes, and the chance to watch the water wheel turn while you wait adds to the fun.
Ideal for weekend brunch that’s worth queuing for…
Chris Evans’ all-day dining spot at Christopher Place has quickly established itself as St Albans’ premier brunch destination (when, perhaps, the waffle place is full, to be fair). The industrial-chic interior with its polished concrete floors and exposed brick provides an urban backdrop for seriously accomplished cooking that elevates familiar brunch dishes into something special.
The menu plays with expectations in all the right ways. Mushrooms on toast might sound modest, but arrives as punchy pickled mushrooms on sourdough with a poached egg, truffle oil, and a delicate puff of goat’s cheese mousse that transforms the entire dish. It’s the kind of technical skill that makes simple dishes memorable.
The waffle game (they love beer and waffles in St Albans – it should be called St AlBelgium, perhaps?) here deserves particular recognition. Made from a traditional Belgian batter and cooked to order, these arrive crisp outside and fluffy within. The weekend special waffles change seasonally – recent highlights included versions with honey-roasted Spanish figs and dark chocolate ganache, or macerated Mirabelle plums with beetroot Eton mess and strawberry crisps. These aren’t confused as they sound – they’re vivid expressions of British seasonality in brunch form.
For those preferring savoury options, the burgers have earned devoted followers, whilst the loaded hash browns provide proper indulgence. Basically, there’s something on this menu to suit even the most fickle members of the squad.
The coffee here takes things seriously, with beans sourced from quality roasters and baristas who understand extraction. This isn’t afterthought coffee – it’s the kind of espresso and flat white that London coffee shops charge premium prices for.
Weekend queues are becoming standard, but the team manages waits efficiently and the food justifies any delay. The atmosphere remains relaxed despite the popularity, with dog-friendly policies adding to the neighbourhood feel.
Whilst it may not often be termed as ‘groundbreaking’, the food scene in Cheltenham has long been one of the UK’s strongest. In a place that’s as moneyed as the stones are honeyed, this isn’t much of a surprise.
The town may be famous, first and foremost, for its racing festival and Regency architecture, but its restaurants have been consistently delivering excellent food for decades – from Michelin-starred institutions to characterful independents and a fair amount in between.
In fact, leave the paddock behind (you didn’t sleep in there last night, did you? You look fucked) and you’ll discover a thriving restaurant landscape that perfectly balances refined dining rooms with relaxed independents. So, whether you’re in town for the races or simply exploring this handsome corner of Gloucestershire, here are the best restaurants in Cheltenham.
Lumière
Ideal for innovative fine dining in intimate surroundings…
It took the Michelin inspectors long enough, but they finally got there. Jon and Helen Howe’s intimate restaurant in Cheltenham town centre recently received its first star (some 15 years after first opening), a recognition of cooking – and an atmosphere, too – that manages to be both precise and soulful. Much of what lands on your plate comes from the couple’s own 15-acre smallholding, transformed by Jon’s classical technique and contemporary vision into something magical.
Both garden and carefully sourced local produce is precisely cooked and beautifully presented, with a finesse that never sacrifices on big, bold flavours. On a recent visit, Gloucestershire’s Stinking Bishop cheese was celebrated in a delicate tart where a crémeux made from the cheese was burnished with a pear gel, all decorated with Alyssum flowers & spiral chives. This was a clever dessert (yep, it was a sweet course) that made total sense, since the cheese is washed in a Perry made from the namesake Stinking Bishop pear during the maturing process.
The dining room feels special without trying too hard – Helen’s warm presence and sommelier Matthew’s thoughtful wine pairings create the sense that you’re in the hands of people who genuinely care about your evening. Choose between four, six or eight courses (£75-£145), book well ahead, and settle in for something memorable.
They’re only open Wednesday to Saturday, and tables are becoming increasingly precious since that star arrived, so plan a few months ahead if you’re keen to cap off your evening with the signature Tequila Slammer sorbet.
Ideal for masterful French-influenced cuisine from a Cheltenham institution…
There’s something wonderfully reassuring about David and Helen Everitt-Matthias’s Suffolk Road restaurant. For over 35 years, they’ve been doing their thing – David has famously never missed a service – and their thing happens to be some of the finest classical cooking in the country.
The menu reads like modern French cuisine and tastes like pure joy: pigeon might come with black pudding and chocolate ganache, monkfish with barley broth and cockles, but whatever lands there, everything on the plate is precise and (cue Masterchef judge pontificating) there for a reason.
Dessert offerings are equally well-judged, the bramble and wood sorrel ‘cannelloni’ balancing the earthy tartness of sorrel with delicate bramble flavours, all given luxury via a refreshing buttermilk sorbet. Visually, it’s all very Prince, in the best possible way, of course.
For a place of this prestige, the wine list feels refreshingly honest – yes, there are trophy bottles for those who want them, but you can drink well for around £30 here. Go for lunch (two courses £40) if you’re watching the budget, or splash out on the full four-course evening menu at £100. Whatever you do, save room for ‘the selection of cheeses’ – a description which doesn’t do the whole thing justice. It’s the finest cheeseboard you’ll see this side of the channel. Or, at least, this side of Chez Bruce…
Open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday, though you’ll want to book ahead – after three decades, they’re still one of the toughest tables to land in town, even if Michelin, in 2019, demoted the restaurant from two stars to one. It remains one of the weirdest decisions the Big Red Book has made.
Ideal for a refined take on Indian dining that transcends curry house clichés…
Sometimes a restaurant comes along that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about a cuisine. That’s Prithvi (‘Mother Earth’ in Sanskrit)…
Set up by cousins and restaurateurs Jay Rahman and Taj Uddin, since 2012 the restaurant has been quietly showing that Indian fine dining needn’t feature dots of mango chutney presented artfully in ellipsis, or an arrangement of lamb cutlets that looks more like a cairn than dinner. Instead, at Privtvi you’ll find familiar but punchy Indian flavours plated in surprising, minimalist ways. But most of all, you’ll find objective, undeniable deliciousness.
The elegant first-floor lounge sets the tone – this is a place that takes itself seriously but not stuffily. Chef Thomas Law’s seven-course tasting menu (£95) might feature tortellini filled with spiced ox cheek floating in burnt shallot consommé, or chalk stream trout bobbing about in a curry beurre blanc and a dainty little quenelle of avruga caviar.
It works because Law has a handle on both classical European technique and Indian spicing. This isn’t fusion for fusion’s sake, make no mistake; it’s a thought-provoking interpretation of a cuisine that doesn’t lose sight of flavour.
Dinner bookings are essential – this is one of Cheltenham’s – if not the South West’s – hottest tables.
Ideal for modern British dining with skyline views…
Cheltenham finally has a rooftop restaurant worth climbing stairs for. The Nook on Five combines panoramic views over Imperial Gardens with cooking that’s confident enough to compete with the vista. Sure, you can come for brunch – their smashed avocado on sourdough is exemplary (and also pretty steep at £13, it has to be said) – but evening is when this place really shines.
The dry-aged T-bone to share (£130) has its own loyal fan club, and the Loch Duart salmon with seafood risotto shows they can do delicate just as well as dramatic. The Nooks Bubble Martini has ruined many a productive Monday morning and induced a fair amount of vertigo all the way up here.
They’re open from lunch until late (and from 9am weekends) – though you’ll want to book ahead for those coveted terrace tables.
Ideal for Sri Lankan street food turned Gloucestershire success story…
What started in 2016 as five Sri Lankan friends converting an old pub in St Paul’s now stands as the original outpost of a nine-strong (and ever-expanding) restaurant group. While they’ve expanded across the South West and into Birmingham, this Cheltenham site remains the mothership – a place where the exposed brick walls still tell the story of late nights spent renovating after day jobs, and where the signature ‘penny bar’ made from old crates and coins first took shape.
The space feels pleasingly incongruous in this residential corner of Cheltenham – step through the door of this grey-painted former pub and you’re transported from terraced houses to an urban hangout where bass-heavy tunes and warm Sri Lankan hospitality fill the room. Tables suspended by chains and low lighting create the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to settle in for the evening, which probably explains why weekend bookings here are like gold dust, even after almost a decade on St Pauls Road.
The menu is essentially a country-spanning roll call of Sri Lankan street food greatest hits. The egg hopper exemplifies their approach – that bowl-shaped fermented rice flour pancake arrives with a perfectly cooked egg at its base, ready to be loaded with the house coconut sambol. The Cheesy Colombo – think sweet-and-sour paneer with properly crispy edges and a sauce that demands to be mopped up with roti – remains the dish that regulars order first and talk about longest.
More substantial dishes shine equally bright. The chicken curry on the bone delivers the kind of lingering heat that has you reaching for water and more curry in either hand, while the black pork, slow-cooked in a sauce dark as night with multiple spices, is a brooding number that hits the spot despite being quite bloody salty, it does have to be said. Vegetarians are particularly well-served – the Fat Sister pumpkin curry shows how something so simple can be transformed into something sublime.
The ‘Cocotails’ list is a key feature, with a menu of illustrations, overzealous descriptions and the kind of encouragement that will have you slurring through a third if you’re not just a little restrained. The Drunken Sri Lankan, which blends coconut-flower-sap whisky with turmeric and lime, and is topped with ginger beer, is dangerously moreish.
Open seven days a week for lunch and dinner, with an Express Lunch menu that has you sorted in 30 minutes if you need it to. While they do take walk-ins, this original branch fills up fast – booking ahead isn’t just recommended, it’s practically mandatory for weekend evenings. There’s something special about eating here, knowing this is where it all began, where five friends took a chance on sharing their food with Cheltenham and ended up creating something that resonated far beyond this quiet corner of Gloucestershire.
Ideal for contemporary Japanese dining under cherry blossoms…
What started in a tiny basement has blossomed into something spectacular. KIBOU now holds court in Cheltenham’s Regent Arcade, where artificial cherry trees create a canopy over diners and anime projections dance across the walls.
The food needs to stand up to this faux-dramatic setting, and there are some fine touches on display on the KIBOU menu. The Volcano Roll isn’t just clever marketing – it arrives at your table looking ready to erupt, while the A5 wagyu nigiri (clocking in at just shy of £30) offers a moment of pure indulgence – all buttery, beefy notes that will have you resenting your chewy old supermarket topside forever more.
Save room for their miso ice cream. Made in-house, the salty/sweet interplay is harmonious and delicious, which isn’t an easy feat when deploying miso in desserts. Served in a golden choux pastry and finished with a drizzle of warm miso butter sauce, it’s pure indulgence.
The sake flight options here make for an educational evening, though the rare Japanese whiskies might mean you forget the lesson. Try to snag a spot in the traditional horigotatsu sunken dining area – there’s something especially satisfying about removing your shoes and settling in for the night. Liberating, even…
Open daily from noon until late, making it perfect for everything from quick lunch stops to leisurely evening feasts.
Ideal for sustainable seafood in intimate surroundings…
Gareth Fulford’s cooking at Purslane makes you wonder why more inland restaurants don’t focus on seafood. His connections with small Cornish day boats mean the fish on your plate was likely swimming yesterday, and his Cotswold Life Food & Drink Awards ‘Chef of the Year’ title from 2018 suggests he knows exactly what to do with it.
The bi-monthly changing menu (three courses for £69) from this independent might feature cured Cornish pollock that tastes of pure ocean, or halibut so perfectly cooked it makes you think you’re eating by the coast.
The menu, which champions Cotswolds produce with equal devotion, is naturally seasonal. This autumn featured dishes of Loch Duart salmon with handmade beetroot cavatelli, Severn & Wye smoked eel, horseradish, and bilberry. Or, red gurnard paired with Delicia pumpkin, suckling pig belly, russet apples and rainbow kale. Gorgeous stuff, indeed, the former so well balanced that even the presence of sputum on the plate was forgiveable.
The wine list is as carefully considered as the fish is fresh – these people understand that great seafood needs great wine, and don’t get pretentious about it, with plenty of drops available by the large glass under the £10 threshold.
They’re only open Thursday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, and booking ahead is essential – this intimate spot has earned its reputation as one of the UK’s top seafood restaurants.
Ideal for sophisticated South Indian flavours in sumptuous surroundings…
There’s something instantly transporting about stepping into Bhoomi Kitchen’s elegantly appointed dining room. The dark walls adorned with carefully curated artwork, velvet chairs trimmed in gold, and soft lighting create an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and welcoming – much like the food that emerges from the kitchen.
Run by the third generation of a family who settled in Cheltenham from India half a century ago, Bhoomi manages that rare feat of honouring tradition while executing it with finesse. The menu leans heavily into South Indian territory – think delicate dosas filled with spiced potato and fresh coconut chutney, or Kerala lamb leg enriched with cardamom and curry leaves. But there’s also space for northern classics from the tandoor, with their barbecued prawns winning particular praise from regulars.
The masala dosa here deserves special mention – crater-pocked and golden, it arrives spanning the width of your table like an edible piece of architecture. Their baby aubergines in ground coconut curry might make you forget every other curry you’ve eaten this year. And speaking of forgetting – don’t you dare leave without trying their chocolate samosa, an inspired riff on the beloved street food snack that somehow makes perfect sense.
Open daily (lunches Wednesday to Sunday, dinner every evening), though you’ll want to book ahead for weekend services when the dining room fills with a mix of loyal regulars and appreciative locals. This is refined Indian dining that respects its roots while delivering them with contemporary polish.
Ideal for casual fine dining that doesn’t forget to be fun…
Tucked away in Montpellier Courtyard, this recent winner of the ‘Best Restaurant 2024’ at the Gloucestershire Foodie Awards (and recipient of a cracking Jay Rayner review) strikes that perfect balance between serious cooking and laid-back charm. Their black pudding scotch eggs with Burford Browns have developed something of a (rightful) cult following, while the Shetland mussels in cider broth show a lighter touch. The wine list ranges from Tuesday night bottles to serious weekend splurges, and their cocktails deserve far more attention than they get.
Like all the best restaurants, it feels special enough for celebrations but casual enough for a Wednesday – though you’ll need to plan those celebrations around their schedule, as they’re closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Open Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, plus Sunday lunch, with weekend bookings strongly advised.
First things first; Bangkok can give you the meal of your life on almost any street corner, for just a few sheets of Baht. But with a metropolis of this size, pace and pollution, eating that meal on that street corner may not always result in the most laid back of dining experiences.
Though the idea of going to restaurants and spending relative big Baht on food in Bangkok sometimes feels a little frivolous, this is one sophisticated city, with a culinary scene that’s just as comfortable dishing out multicourse tasting menus as it is pink plastic plates of spicy wonder.
From time to time, it’s nice to take that little big longer luxuriating in this city’s glorious cuisine. In an air conditioned room, back supported and upright in a chair, with a glass provided for your beer, or even, perhaps, with a glass of wine. To take stock of the country, the city and its alluring cuisine. For that, we won’t judge you.
So, with all that in mind, we’ve taken on the unenviable task of eating through Bangkok to give you, in our view, the most essential, scene-defining restaurants in the city. Here is our IDEAL 27; the best restaurants in Bangkok.
Samrub Samrub Thai, Silom
Ideal for a singular, masterful expression of Thai food both past and present…
This intimate, chef’s table experience might boast a Michelin star and a just-announced 47th place on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list, but accolade chasing really doesn’t feel like the point at Samrub Samrub Thai.
Instead, expect a deep dive into historic Thai recipes and a regularly changing tasting menu that places fresh focus on a region, season or simply a vibe with each new menu, whether that’s a celebration of a long-lost Southern Thai seafood recipe book or a whole evening of food inspired by the poetry of the Kingdom of Lanna.Though the influences are idiosyncratic, the result is a singular, masterful expression of Thai food both past and present.
At the stoves here is chef Prin Polsuk, who has some serious roots in Thai fine dining, having been the head chef at Nahm in London when it won its Michelin star, the first Thai restaurant in the world to have done so.
On the plate (and in the glass – there will be numerous gratis shots of chef Prin’s homebrewed liquor handed out!), Samrub is all about generosity, with the main sharing spread at the centrepiece of the tasting menu the perfect embodiment of Thai hospitality.
That generous spirit exemplifies the family-style nature of this brilliant restaurant, with Polsuk’s wife Mint running the front of house operations, and chef Prin happily sharing a little background on the dishes you’re eating, as you eat. An appearance on the Apple TV docu-series Omnivore last year seemed to cement their position as a place that means business.
Right now, in typically thought-provoking style, the July/August 2025 menu presents ‘Of Woman and Her offerings,’ an extraordinary collaboration with renowned Thai artist Pinaree Sanpitak that transforms the simple act of a damn good feed into an exploration of femininity through food, art, and time.
The menu brilliantly channels Sanpitak’s conceptual approach to the female form – most playfully in the young rice milk pudding with pandan and coconut cream, served as two perfect, jiggling circles that unmistakably echo the breast motifs central to her art. Chef Prin weaves this artistic philosophy throughout the menu with his own aesthetic, creative touch, from the steamed oyster curry with Indian mulberry leaves to the Baan Krua (Thailand’s oldest Muslim community) sour beef curry, a dish that tastes like its imbued with real maternal wisdom and love.
Even the lychee dessert with rose sorbet and candied ginger speaks to a certain feminine delicacy. It’s a deeply thoughtful menu that transcends typical seasonal offerings, inviting diners to contemplate giving and receiving, comfort and sensuality, all while maintaining chef Prin’s signature mastery of regional Thai techniques.
A bold claim, but this latest menu might be our favourite of all we’ve eaten at Samrub. This is a restaurant on form, and to our mind, the best Thai food in Bangkok and, by rights then, the world. The fact that the menu changes so regularly and so emphatically is starting to seriously worry our bank manager!
When is Samrub Samrub Thai open? Samrub is open from Tuesday to Saturday for two dinner servings, one starting at 5:30pm and one at 8pm. The restaurant is closed on Sundays and Mondays.
Do I need to book in advance? Booking well in advance is recommended, which you can do so on Table Check. You’ll have to pay for the tasting menu in advance, by way of a deposit.
How much should I expect to spend? The tasting menu here is priced at ฿4290 (around £100), excluding service charge and VAT.
Closest BTS/MRT? Sala Daeng BTS is a 5 minute walk from the restaurant.
Ideal for nose-to-tail dining that celebrates Northern Thailand’s resourceful cooking traditions…
100 Mahaseth opened just off Chareon Krung Road way back in 2017. When you consider the Bangkok restaurant scene’s lightning fast evolution, that makes chef Chalee Kader’s homage to the resourceful cooking traditions of Northern and Northeastern Thailand something approaching an institution.
The restaurant’s nose-to-tail, root-to-fruit, brain to balls philosophy has certainly influenced plenty of hip openings in the years that have followed. It feels a little silly saying that, when no-waste, maximum-yield is the only way cooks in rural Thailand have played it for centuries.
The restaurant’s origin story is an amusing one. “We were supposed to open a pho joint,” Chef Chalee revealed back in 2018, “and we were sourcing so much beef and so many parts for the pho stock and we said ‘What are we going to serve for dinner? We can’t serve pho for dinner’.” This pivot, to using the whole cow and then some, led to one of Bangkok’s most celebrated and distinctive dining experiences. And they do still sometimes serve pho.
Housed in a handsome, revitalised old teak house in Bang Rak, the gorgeous setting plays off perfectly against all that offal, smoothing out the rougher notes and soothing each undulating wave of hard, rasping chilli heat. The flagstone floors feel cooling under foot, and rattan lamp shades throw warm lighting across the dining room, making the old teak wood glow. Traditional molam music plays at a volume so perfectly calibrated that it somehow confirms that everything will be seasoned just right. And so it is.
All ingredients come directly from Thai farmers, including three distinct varieties of rice from Surin province, each offering unique textures and aromas. The signature charcoal-roasted bone marrow is a proper showstopper – an enormous bone halved and roasted, its sumptuous marrow perfectly balanced by scatterings of toasted perilla seeds and slices of lemongrass shaved so thinly they’re rendered almost apparitional. Scoop it up, look for some bread, realise there’s no bread and tackle it with freshly steamed sticky rice instead.
Other must-tries include the playful Northerner’s Hot Dog, featuring a Chiang Mai-style sai ua sausage in a brioche bun with nahm prik noom jam. It’s an idea that’s been imitated many times and in many places since, both in Bangkok and back here in the UK, too. Though it’s the highest form of flattery, those chefs should’ve probably left it to Kader – the OG at Mahaseth is infinitely superior.
The addictive braised, dehydrated then deep-fried fried tripe make the perfect companion to a cold beer, and for those keen to dive deeper, the seasonal koi salad of ant larvae is a joy. Already naturally bursting (genuinely, bursting) with acidity, the larvae is seasoned with lime, toasted sticky rice and chilis. Roasted macadamia is shaved over the top to bolster the nuttiness of the toasted rice. Looking like drifts of parmesan across a risotto, it’s far more technicolour in its flavours; natural ingredients reinforced and amplified, the dish so much more than the sum of its parts.
On the flipside, those looking to eat only the exterior of the beast will find comfort in the Isaan complementary set, often featuring som tam and crispy pork skin with a Thai chimichurri, another item we keep seeing elsewhere lately. Further cold beers follow, perhaps with some skewers of beef liver and ox tongue, and the whole order repeats itself until you’re spilling out onto Charoenkrung Road, dazed, confused and feeling a little feral, thumbing Google for the best whiskey sodas in the immediate vicinity (psst; they were back there, where you left them).
If Bang Rak is a stretch to get to, then you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s a second location in Ekkamai now, featuring a more casual bar set-up, complete with turntables and a vibe that often verges on the raucous. They’ve even recently opened a New York pizza spot opposite, called Across 100, proving chef Chalee’s culinary ambitions stretch far beyond offal.
When is 100 Mahaseth open? Tuesday to Sunday, 11:30am – 10:30pm. Closed on Mondays.
Do I need to book in advance? Highly recommended; it’s a popular spot with limited seating.
How much should I expect to spend? Around ฿2000 per person, though this can vary with specials like aged steak and the amount of booze you consume.
Closest BTS/MRT? It’s a little off the direct public transport lines. The closest MRT is Hua Lamphong, or BTS Saphan Taksin, followed by a short taxi ride.
Ideal for fiery Northern Thai jungle curry in a no-frills setting…
For over four decades, this beloved local institution has served some of Bangkok’s most downright fiery Thai cuisine. Specialising in northern Thai jungle curry (gaeng pa) – from which the restaurant takes its name – this unassuming local hero has a formidable reputation amongst those in the know for its assertive, roundly spiced signature dish.
Located near Sriyan Market (been saying ‘Syrian’ for years, ffs) in a modern-ish renovated building, Gaeng Pa Sriyan features both an open ground floor dining area where fans blow with such gusto that it’s hard to keep hold of your napkin, and a second floor with air conditioning. Neither can cool the chilli heat of a seriously spicy signature dish.
You don’t need to fear hushed tones or reverent vibes here; this is a busy, no-frills local joint that serves the neighbourhood and its workers far more than the city’s tourists. Sure, there are tablecloths, but they’re not of the starched white variety. Rather, the plastic, wipeable kind, which is kind of useful when you’re lashing back a whole host of addictive sauces, soups and curries with wild-eyed and clumsy-handed enthusiasm.
It’s not a boisterous, boozy joint either. Popular with the lunchtime office crowd, the scene is convivial but calm, the food doing the talking, usually at a thrilling, chilli-induced crescendo. Despite its longevity and cult status among Bangkokians with a penchant for pain, the restaurant maintains a low profile. There’s no Insta or Facebook page. You won’t see many reels dispatched from the frontline.
In all honesty, we’re probably overdoing the whole ‘so spicy’ thing in the name of a narrative; the chilli isn’t so crushing that it’s all you can taste, all you can feel. Dishes are served at Bangkok room temperature, allowing the deft spicing and freshness of the aromatic ingredients to come to the fore.
The star of the show is, of course, the jungle curry itself, a herbaceous, fierce thing that’s also complex and nuanced. Traditionally made with wild meats and foraged vegetables from the forest, at Gaeng Pa Sriyan you can choose your protein – options include wild boar, river fish, or frog. Whichever you go for, the supporting cast bring their A-game too; young bamboo shoots, pea eggplants, grachai (fingerroot), fresh green peppercorns, and a generous scattering of herbs, all swimming in that famously spicy, earthy broth, deliver waves of bitterness, astringency, and complexity. God, this curry is good.
Beyond the namesake, other dishes shine just as brightly. The minced quail stir-fried kee mao (drunken) style is sensational, an explosion of savoury bolstered by ground quail (bones included for a crunch), both fresh and dried chillies, and fried makrut lime leaves that bless the whole occasion with a certain floral suaveness.
Southern Thai classics get a good outing, too; the goong pad kapi sator (stir-fried shrimp with stink beans and shrimp paste) is pungent and beautiful, and the green curry of fish balls is a gold-standard version. We concede the latter really was spicy.
After the fire of the main courses, cool down with their excellent durian and coconut ice cream served with sticky rice, and perhaps another round of icy Singha. Then, go back in for round two – this is addictive, intoxicating food that you simply have to surrender to.
When is Gaeng Pa Sriyan open? Monday to Saturday, 09:30am – 8:30pm. Closed on Sundays.
Do I need to book in advance? We’re not actually sure you can. We’ve always just rocked up and been seated, though do be aware that it gets busy between midday and 1pm on weekdays.
How much should I expect to spend? Extremely reasonable. Dishes typically clock in at around THB 150. Expect to spend around ฿600 per person for a generous meal and a beer or two.
Closest BTS/MRT? The closest BTS station is Victory Monument. From there, a taxi (around THB 60) or bus #14 is needed. Alternatively, MRT Bang Phlat is about 1.5km away, and MRT Bang O is 2km away.
Ideal for innovative wood-fire cooking in the heart of the hip part of Chinatown…
In a classic shophouse down Trok Panjit, one of the atmospheric alleyways of thriving Soi Nana in Yaowarat, Choen is a relative Bangkok newcomer that’s making serious waves (hmmm, perhaps not the right element here) with its singular focus on live-fire cooking. The name ‘Choen’ is derived from ‘blazing fire’ – a fitting moniker for a concept built around cooking food over charcoal flames.
Opened in December 2023, this intimate 10-seat restaurant is the creation of Chef Geravich ‘Mew’ Mesaengrilverakul, who previously worked at Nahm in its glory days under David Thompson, and as one of the founding members of Charmgang (also on this list).
His concept – ‘Contemporary Cuisine from Fire x Wood’ – might read like a weird modern classical playlist on TIDAL, but there’s nothing pretentious in chef Mew’s masterful control of of the grill. Clearly inspired by Etxebarri, he manages to coax a similar nuance (no higher compliment) in both flavour and texture from the smoke and flame. The main man even crisps up his pork belly – from start to finish – on the barbecue. It’s pure wizardry, and we’re not sure we’ve seen it done so well, so precision-perfectly, anywhere else on the planet.
There’s nothing brutish about the application of smoke at Choen. Nothing acrid or amaroidal. That’s all down to the use of five different types of wood in the cooking process, including eucalyptus, longan, and lychee, each imparting specific aromatic qualities to different dishes. Traditional Thai cooking equipment, including grills, smokers, and taos (traditional bucket-like clay burners), add further judicious complexity. It’s all admirably thought out and deliberate – an interesting counterpoint to the unpredictability of the medium.
The seasonal tasting menu changes regularly, showcasing Chef Mew’s skill at balancing traditional flavours with refined presentation. Signature dishes include the giant river prawn curry with coconut buds, flambadou river prawn and shampoo ginger salad, and smoked beef cheek with galangal and pickled lotus root. Even desserts receive the fire treatment, with the coconut ice cream featuring burning longan wood to add smoky notes, and a little crispy pork crackling for a little showmanship. That dessert is mind-blowingly good.
The setting itself is a study in contrasts, with the historic shophouse dramatically transformed into a modern, concrete-clad space within. Sometimes, when flames are licking high and there’s sweet smoke wafting about, you don’t want any more visual distraction.
In many ways, Choen defines what’s best about Bangkok’s contemporary dining scene; modern and forward-thinking, sure, but also rooted in traditional, age-old techniques, with something of the elemental thrown in for good measure. It’s our favourite recent opening in the city, make no mistake.
When is Choen open? Open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday, 7pm to 10pm. Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Do I need to book in advance? Essential. Given the intimate setting and tasting menu format, reservations are a must.
How much should I expect to spend? The 9-course tasting menu is priced at ฿3000.
Closest BTS/MRT? MRT Wat Mangkon is the nearest station, and is just a 5 minute walk from the restaurant.
Ideal for precise, Kingdom-spanning plates from one of Thailand’s most exciting young chefs…
Fresh from winning Tatler Best New Restaurant In Asia for 2024, Khaan represents the next step in chef Sujira ‘Aom’ Pongmorn’s impressively precocious culinary journey. Having earned her stripes (or should we say stars) with a Michelin-starred tenure at Saawaan, the Young Michelin Chef 2021 winner has created something rather special here: a Thai fine dining restaurant that feels both fresh and worthy of a special occasion.
While new Thai tasting menus that ‘elevate’ the world’s most satisfying street food dishes into fiddly little bites are ten-a-penny in Bangkok these days, Khaan is in a different class to the vast majority of them. There’s real skill and craft emanating from the glass-panelled kitchen, visible as you pitch up Soi Som Khit, a young team working away with both precision and beaming smiles. It looks like an agreeable place to work, which is always reassuring when you’re settling in for the evening.
The name ‘Khaan’ – meaning both ‘tiger’ and ‘proclaim’ in Thai – feels apt for a restaurant that roars with such confident delivery. In a sumptuous, red velvet-clad room, Chef Aom serves an 11-course tasting menu that changes regularly, but rather than focusing on one region, each dish aims to celebrate a different element of Thailand’s rich culinary diversity. It’s ambitious, but it pays off.
This is immediately apparent in the opening quartet of snacks that traverse the country, with South, Central Plains, North and East all represented. Though dainty, they pack a proper punch, particularly the genius crab and egg yolk curry that arrives as a single spoonable bite in an egg shell – assertive with chilli heat yet tempered by its decadence. It’s a fine way to start any meal.
Considering the variety of techniques and ingredients that span from northeast to deep south, the menu maintains admirable cohesion despite its geographical breadth – a testament to chef Aom’s delicate touch.
The menu progresses thoughtfully, with an Andaman tiger prawn with homemade pickled lime and tomalley cracker setting the tone early. Designed to reflect familiar tom yam flavours in an interesting way (mission accomplished), it gives way to the meal’s highlight – rice paddy crab with sticky rice. Peel back the grilled banana leaf to reveal smoky rice within, perfect for swiping through a relish of paddy crab presented in its tiny shell. It’s a rich, luxurious, complex affair where rice somehow still manages to be the star of the show, just as it should be.
The tom kha with Barron point and Surat Thani oysters masterfully balances coconut cream’s (and the oyster’s) inherent richness with sharp, aromatic elements, whilst the headlining Khao Yai duck with Paka-Um-Pun rice and five spice curry arrives dexterously seasoned, its rectangle of blushing meat sporting perfectly lacquered skin. A sausage of the duck’s offal underscores chef Aom’s no-waste philosophy. It’s a triumph.
Indeed, sustainability and zero-waste practices are central here (keep an eye out for Plearn, Chef Aom’s casual eatery opening soon which will repurpose surplus ingredients from Khaan). In a neat bit of cyclical theatre, the petit fours revisit the opening snacks in another country-spanning quartet, again highlighting Thailand’s distinct, diverse (and delicious) regionality. It’s a difficult balance to strike, but one that’s achieved with real panache here.
For those keen to forgo any autonomy and just enough the ride, the thoughtfully curated wine pairings (available in both four and six-glass options) and the unique tea pairing programme offer well-judged accompaniments to this culinary sashay across the Kingdom.
When is Khaan open? Khaan is open exclusively for dinner service, from 5pm onwards, every day except Monday, when it’s closed.
Do I need to book in advance? Booking in advance is recommended.
How much should I expect to spend? The 11-course tasting menu is priced at ฿3,850 (around £85).
Closest BTS/MRT? Phloen Chit BTS is a short walk away.
Ideal for whole roast suckling pig, designed for sharing…
Right in the heart of Chinatown, just off Yarowat Road, is an old school institution that’s stood here for more than a century…
…I mean, there are probably hundreds of places that could follow-up that introductory sentence and feel perfectly at home doing so, such is the history and culinary clout of Bangkok’s most food-focused neighbourhood.
Not all of those century’s old institutions in Bangkok’s Chinatown are doing quite such an iconic, photogenic, banquet-worthy dish as Tang Jai Yoo, though. Specialising in Teochow cuisine and famed, more specifically, for its suckling pig, this is a dish (and restaurant) that it’s almost criminal not to try when visiting Yarowat. The fact it deserves a party of six to take it down shouldn’t be considered an obstacle; it’s a sociable place on the streets here, so crack open a beer, make some friends, and bring them along for the ride.
Or, you could simply tackle the whole piglet – splayed open, bronzed and burnished – solo, and then die happy. Either way, it’s one of Bangkok’s must-try dishes, and has a real sense of ceremony to it.
Once ordered (in the past a pre-order was necessary, but no longer), a suckling pig – splayed on a spit – is brought from the kitchen and out to the front of the restaurant, where the charcoal is already burning in a drum. A chef spins the spit frantically over raging hot charcoal, brushing it with oil using what looks like a rag on a stick. Even if you don’t eat here, it’s quite the spectacle to watch as it progressively crisps and crackles.
It’s then brought back inside palanquin-style to audible gasps from the dining room – each and every time. A skilled chef then proceeds to deftly remove the crackled skin with a cleaver before portioning it into bite sized pieces and adding it back onto the pig, like a comprehensive, successful skin graft. It’s all very theatrical and just a little bit macabre; we love it.
By Thiradech via CanvaBy thaloengsak via Canva
The whole pig is then placed in the centre of circular banqueting tables, aboard a lazy susan alongside pancakes, cucumber, green onions and hoisin sauce, the harsh lighting of the dining room only serving to illuminate the main event and hammer home that this is an old school sort of place.
The idea is to wrap only the crisp skin and its suggested adornments in the pancakes. Once those pancakes have been eagerly dispensed with and the skin finished, the suckling pig is then taken back to the kitchen, where the flesh is chopped up into cubes and stir fried with chilli and garlic.
What a glorious affair this all is, but there’s plenty of other bits on the menu to get excited about too, including oyster omelette (arguably better than that version), black olive fried rice, deep-fried mantis shrimp and an intriguing selection of complex, reviving soups. Singhas and whisky flow freely, as if the deal needed anymore sealing.
Closest BTS/MRT? Tang Jai Yoo is a 3 minute walk from Wat Mangkon MRT.
When is Tang Jai Yoo open? Tang Jai Yoo is open from 11am to 2pm for lunch, and 4:30pm to 10pm for dinner.
Do I need to book in advance? You can make a reservation over the phone only, which requires Thai or Chinese to be spoken. Alternatively, you can pitch up and still get a table – the restaurant has rows of chairs set up outside for customers waiting their turn. Those tables, despite the convivial nature of the place, get turned fast.
How much should I expect to spend? Right now, the whole suckling pig and its accouterments is ฿2500 (just north of £50). It’s well worth the money.
Ideal for an ultra-modern Thai dining experience anchored in tradition and family…
Close to the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bang Kapi, Baan Tepa is one of Bangkok’s most exciting – yet also comforting, soul-nourishing – restaurants. We say restaurant, but Baan Tepa is billed as a ‘culinary space’, home to a chef’s table, a larger dining room overlooked by an open kitchen, a tea experience, and an organic culinary garden of which much of the 9 course tasting menu is built around (ask for a tour; it’s a fascinating living library of herbs, flowers and spices).
Enough of the fluff. Under the pioneering stewardship of chef Chudaree “Tam” Debhakam, the world’s first Thai female chef to be awarded two Michelin Stars and fresh from just winning Asia’s Best Female Chef 2025, the menu at Baan Tepa is a celebration of organic, small batch Thai producers and the country’s rich biodiversity, an ethos inspired by chef Tam’s time spent at the legendary Blue Hill at Stone Barns.
Expect highly intricate but ultimately satisfying dishes, each telling a story of chef Tam’s extensive travels across Thailand and beyond. Highlights of our recent meal here included a reimagining of classic Issan chicken liver skewers and jaew, here presented as a smooth parfait but still boasting the heady, earthy flavours of white pepper, garlic and coriander root that makes up the traditional marinade. Alongside, an incredible sourdough brioche whose starter is made from wild rice was complex and crisp. Gorgeous.
Later on, a show-stealer; the signature ‘anatomy of a river prawn’ featuring a whopper sourced from Ayutthaya and its smoked head juices, which was brought back to the street with possibly the best nahm jim seafood we’ve ever encountered. It’s this anchoring of ultra-modern technique with recognisable, faithfully delivered elements that makes Baan Tepa so captivating.
As with several of the restaurants on our list, there’s a personal connection to the space, too; chef Tam’s family grew up here, with the space owned by Chef Tam’s grandmother, Lady Suwaree Debhakam. The space still retains many of its original features, and its warming, welcoming soul. When combined with some of the most innovative expressions of Thai food you’ll find anywhere on the planet, it’s a highly alluring experience.
When is Baan Tepa open? Baan Tepa’s tasting menu experience is dinner only, available from Wednesday to Sunday in two sittings each evening, one at 6pm to 9:30pm, and one at 7pm to 10:30pm.
Do I need to book in advance? You’ll likely need to book at least two weeks in advance.
How much should I expect to spend? A sprawling 7 course affair is ฿6200 (£140). This price is exclusive of service and VAT. You’ll have to pay for the tasting menu in advance, by way of a deposit.
Closest BTS/MRT? There are no BTS or underground stops close to Baan Tepa. Best get a taxi to this one!
Opposite Democracy Monument, step into the gently faded grandeur of Methavalai Sorndaeng and you’ll find the essence of traditional Thai fine dining celebrated with a grandiosity reminiscent of the nation’s royal heritage.
An iconic restaurant if ever there was one, and now in its seventh decade, the dishes here are delicately presented but full of flavour, with the coconut curries particularly well balanced. Despite its luxurious ties to regal splendour and sophistication, Methavalai Sorndaeng offers an accessible dining experience.
Though once Michelin-starred (they inexplicably lost theirs in the 2024 edition of the guide) The prices are surprisingly modest, with most main courses not exceeding 500 THB (approximately £12), and a selection of others priced even more kindly. The wine is presented with an easy-going charm – a straightforward choice between red or white, always served by the glass – underscoring the exceptional value. The nightly live 80s Thai music seals the deal.
When is Methavalai Sorndaeng open? Methavalai Sorndaeng is open every day from 10:30am to 10pm.
Do I need to book in advance? Though the restaurant can usually squeeze you in, it’s wise to book a day in advance for this one.
How much should I expect to spend? You can eat very well here and drink very merrily, ordering from the a la carte menu, for around ฿3500 (£75) for two people.
Closest BTS/MRT? Sam Yot MRT is a 15 minute walk from the restaurant. Alternatively, owing to the restaurant’s position close to the Chao Phraya river and canals (khlongs), you can shimmy up to the restaurant via Bangkok’s waterways. The closest canal stop is Panfa Leelard Pier. The closest ferry terminal (along the Chao Phraya) is Phra Arthit.
Instead, ingredients and spice levels remain resolutely ‘Southern’ to their soul, with unfiltered fish sauce, premium quality shrimp paste and, yes, mouse-shit loads of chilli all present and correct on the expansive tasting menu.
Right now (as of April 2025), the restaurant has recently returned from a break which saw the space renovated and the chefs take an extensive research trip down south. The new menu is looking refreshed and updated, the doors are now open again and the kitchen is on song.
Dishes that weren’t on the previous menu include an opening gambit of rice cracker with river prawn that’s so much more than its prosaic description, a complex soup of freshly pressed coconut milk and melinjo leaves that’s finished with crab oil, and an extravagant crispy omelette – all puffed up and lacy like an Elizabethan neck ruff – that’s filled with poached lobster. Yep, this new iteration of Sorn is looking even better (and certainly mroe luxurious) than the last – and that’s saying something!
For those keen to try the team’s cooking at a fraction of the price, chef Supaksorn’s more casual Southern Thai eatery Baan Ice has several outposts across the city, and is ace.
When is Sorn open? Sorn is usually open for dinner only every day except Saturday, with service starting at 6pm, although right now it’s closed for research and renovation.
Do I need to book in advance? At Sorn, reservations can be made a month in advance as announced on our social media platforms. Getting a table requires precision planning and setting your alarm. Check their socials for more information.
How much should I expect to spend? The full tasting menu is currently priced at ฿7200 (£162), tax and service excluded. With the third star recently dropping, we expect prices to rise somewhat in the near future.
Closest BTS/MRT? Phrom Phong BTS is a 15 minute walk from Sorn.
Ideal for a faithful Roman trattoria experience in the heart of Bangkok’s business district…
Of course, modern day Bangkok’s culinary scene is also home to some of the region’s best international restaurants, and if you’re after Italian food in the Thai capital, then you should look no further than Appia.
Standing as a tribute to the authentic Roman trattoria experience, since opening in 2013 on the bustling Sukhumvit Soi 31 (where you’ll find a couple of the other restaurants on our list, incidentally), this heartfelt homage to Rome has been packed out every night of the week, with diners seeking solace in the iconic Big Four pasta dishes that are synonymous with the Eternal City, as well as the everpresent porchetta that turns slowly on a spit in the window, beckoning diners inside. You’ll find us thoroughly beckoned at the counter more often than we’re proud to admit.
When is Appia open? Appia is open everyday, for lunch and dinner, with the restaurant open all day on Saturdays and Sundays.
Do I need to book in advance? Booking in advance is highly recommended, which can be done over phone, email or Line.
How much should I expect to spend? A bowl of pasta at Appia is ฿400 (£8.70), a glass of house wine is around ฿300 (£6.50).
Closest BTS/MRT? Phrom Phong BTS is a 15 minute walk from Sorn.
Ideal for one of Bangkok’s most acclaimed dim sum lunches…
Located in the Eastin Grand Hotel Sathorn Bangkok (and with two other outposts in the city), Chef Man is one of the city’s most popular joints for fans of the food of Southern China.
Master Chef Wai Yin Man, a Hong Kong native, brings his expertise and passion for Cantonese cuisine to the forefront here, his meticulous Peking duck preparation the restaurant’s obvious centrepiece (more than 30’000 have been served across the city since Chef Man pitched up in 2011) but certainly not the only reason you should head here.
For us, the dim sum at Chef Man is the real highlight. Served from 11am every day, this is our favourite brunch spot in Bangkok. The ha kao shrimp dumplings are plump and squeaky fresh, and the signature yam cake – appearing looking a little like a deep-fried coronavirus – reveals an oozing salted egg yolk centre. It’s a real indulgence, with the frenetic energy of the broad open kitchen only adding to the fun. An extensive tea selection is also available.
Arguably the city’s most popular dim sum spot, you’ll want to book well in advance for this one.
For reservations, call Chef Man (the restaurant, not the actual fella) on 02 212 3789, 02 212 3741 or email [email protected]
When is Chef Man open? Chef Man is open everyday for lunch and dinner, from 11am to 2:30pm, and 6pm to 10pm, respectively.
Do I need to book in advance? Reservations a few days in advance are necessary, which can be made via phone or email.
How much should I expect to spend? A dim sum feast for two, with tea, will set you back around ฿1000 (£22) per person.
Closest BTS/MRT? Surasak BTS is just a 2 minute walk from the restaurant.
Ojo is the crowning jewel of Bangkok’s tallest skyscraper, the King Power Mahanakhon, a Mexican restaurant that somehow lives up to its lofty billing with a fully-flavoured, tastefully opulent dining experience. Helmed by chef Francisco Paco Ruano from the acclaimed Restaurante Alcalde in Guadalajara, the restaurant takes its name from the word ‘eye’ in Spanish, and it’s an apt epithet, seeing as the dining room casts its gaze over Bangkok so seductively.
Drag your eyes away from the skyline and into the dining room, which straddles a real sense of glam with something more tastefully refined; the work of designer Ou Baholyodhin, whose sense of suave and drip seemingly knows no bounds. On the plate, things are equally beautiful, with dishes clearly crafted to taste as good as they look. All of this adds up to a sense of narrative and unity that manages to be totally satisfying rather than shallow. At 76 floors up, you’d certainly hope it wouldn’t be the latter.
When is Ojo open? Ojo is open everyday for lunch and dinner, from 11:30am to 2:30pm, and 5:30pm to 11:30pm, respectively. The sunset slot, around 6pm onwards, is highly recommended!
Do I need to book in advance? Reservations can usually be made on the day.
How much should I expect to spend? Ojo isn’t cheap, with starters between ฿500 (£11) and ฿1000 (£22), and main courses in the region of ฿2000 (£43). Wine is equally lofty.
Closest BTS/MRT? Chong Nonsi BTS is just a 2 minute walk from the restaurant.
Ideal for a bookish, beautifully rendered spread from ‘the godfather of Thai food’…
Inspired by the Thai cookbook authors of the 1940s and 1950s, Aksorn takes pride both in its location on Charoenkrung Road, an area that once buzzed with retail and entertainment and is now home to some of the best restaurants in Bangkok, and in its setting, once a former bookshop.
The restaurant’s menu is a celebration of Thai culture and heritage, offering a regularly changing, single-set selection of dishes that reflect the remarkable transition from a rich Siamese past to modern Thailand.
David Thompson, considered by many as the world’s leading authority on Thai cuisine, is at the stoves here (quite literally, on the night we visited last year), drawing inspiration from historical archives and his profound expertise for a menu that offers both comfort and a few surprises. See; the first bite of sardines on toast; heaving with white pepper and adorned with gossamer thin slices of shallot and coriander leaves, it seems to bridge the city and the chef’s disparate elements poetically.
There are more recognisably Thai dishes, too. Expect expertly conceived, highly-seasoned curries that sing with freshly squeezed coconut cream and Thai aromatics at their peak, as well as sweet and salty desserts that are surely some of the very best in town. Thompson is known for his sweet tooth, and this is just the place to indulge in the glorious marriage and sweet and savoury that Thai food is so celebrated for. Pair it all with a chilled, slightly sweet (of course) Australian Riesling, and you’ve got yourself one of the most well-rounded spreads in the city.
When is Aksorn open? Aksorn is open everyday for dinner, from 6pm to 9:30pm.
Do I need to book in advance? Reservations can usually be made on the day, though you’ll want to book in advance for the weekend.
How much should I expect to spend? The set menu at Aksorn is currently priced at ฿3900 (£88) per person.
Closest BTS/MRT? Saphan Taksin BTS is a 10 minute walk from the restaurant.
Ideal for Thai drinking food and creative cocktails…
Err is the brainchild of the dynamic chef duo Duangporn ‘Bo’ Songvisava and her Australian-born husband Dylan Jones. Both chefs are renowned for their commitment to preserving Thai food heritage, with the pair’s globally renowned restaurant Bo.lan considered one of the world’s top Thai restaurants in its pomp.
The couple bring their expertise to Err in Thonglor, focusing on Thai drinking food classics and traditional dishes with a twist. The deep-fried whole chicken skin is unmissable, arriving still fully formed and needing nothing more than a little house sriracha sauce for dipping. It’s one for the ‘gram, sure, but it’s also bloody delicious.
Even more lip-smackingly good with a cold one is Err’s take on fermented pork, neam. A Northern Thai classic, here sticky rice-cured pork arrives wrapped around skewers, its gnarly edges grill-marked and caramelised, its body juicy, rich and full of savour. It’s a truly glorious take on one of our favourite foods in the world.
Of course, Thai drinking food needs drinks, and some serious thought has gone into Err’s. Go for The Laabtini, a unique cocktail blending tequila with laab spices. Created by the team’s no-waste cocktail bar Wasteland, it’s already a classic.
When is Err open? Err is open 11am until late On Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays, and 5pm until late on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. The restaurant is closed on Wednesdays.
Do I need to book in advance? Err is walk-in only.
How much should I expect to spend? The majority of snacks and dishes here are priced at around ฿250 (£5.50).
Closest BTS/MRT? Thonglor BTS is a 5 minute walk from Err.
Garima Arora, the Mumbai-born culinary genius behind Gaa, is the first Indian female chef to be awarded a Michelin star, with a historic second following in late 2024.
Having already honed her skills at Copenhagen’s world famous Noma, in 2015 she moved to Bangkok to work as a sous chef at Gaggan, the highly creative Indian restaurant run by Gaggan Anand that has topped the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants list several times, its most recent iteration once again occupying the number one spot for a record fifth time.
With the blessing of the big man, Arora struck out on her own, opening Gaa in Bangkok in 2017, with the aim of blending ingredients and cooking sensibilities from the Indian subcontinent with the odd Thai flourish, reflecting her diverse culinary experiences to dramatic, alluring effect.
Having recently moved to a new location close to BTS Thonglor and just round the corner from the aforementioned Err, the restaurant is going from strength to strength, capped off by that second Michelin star in the 2024 Guide. We can’t wait to see where they go next.
When is Gaa open? Gaa is open daily, for both lunch and dinner.
Do I need to book in advance? You can usually book Gaa for the following day, though tables are a little more scarce at the weekend.
How much should I expect to spend? The Gaa experience is currently priced at ฿4900 (£115) per person.
Closest BTS/MRT? Thonglor BTS is a 5 minute walk from Gaa.
Ideal for a thoughtful, forward-thinking reflection of Bangkok’s Chinatown…
Standing slap bang in the middle of Bangkok’s Chinatown, Potong pays homage to the city’s rich tapestry of Thai-Chinese heritage through its innovative cuisine. This avant-garde restaurant is the work of Chef Pam, just last month anointed The World’s Best Female Chef 2025, who has skillfully woven her family’s century-old recipes with a modern twist, creating an unforgettable gastronomic journey.
The ambiance of Potong is a seamless blend of the past and present, with decor that reflects the elegance of Shanghai in the 1920s, yet pulses with the contemporary beat of Bangkok. It’s a match made in heaven.
Exciting news for 2025: Chef Pam is expanding her culinary footprint with Khao San Sek. This new venture celebrates the five pillars of Thai cuisine – rice, chili, coconut, fish sauce, and palm sugar – reimagining these foundational ingredients with her signature precision. Following the success of her Michelin-starred POTONG, Chef Pam’s latest restaurant promises a fresh perspective on Thai culinary heritage.
When is Potong open? Potong is open Thursday to Monday, for dinner service only, 4pm to 11pm.
Do I need to book in advance? You will need to book a table for Potong, via Chope, several months in advance.
How much should I expect to spend? Potong’s new 5 senses, 5 elements ‘revolution’ tasting menu is priced at ฿6300 (£150) per person.
Closest BTS/MRT? Wat Mangkon MRT is a 5 minute walk from Potong.
Ideal for elite soba noodles you’ll have to set your alarm for…
You better set your alarm bright and early if you want to sample a bowl of some of Bangkok’s best soba noodles. Not because No Name Noodle – suitably mysterious in its moniker – opens early doors, but because you have to pre-book your bowl (one of only 35 made each day) in a kind of Glastonbury T-day scramble for one of seven stools and a satisfied slurp. Only furthering that comparison, it happens to be 9am every Sunday that the chaos unfolds online.
It’s well worth hammering that F5 button;chef Shinichiro Kondo is a master of his craft, with every bowl given immaculate care and attention, a glorious blend of innovation (there’s some sous vide work here) and respect for tradition.
Images via @nonamenoodlebkk
There are only two menu options here; Tokusei Shio Soba, a noodle soup with a seafood base and various toppings including pork and chicken chashu, and Tokusei Kombusui Tsuke Soba, a dish with noodles dipped in kombu dashi and a side of shoyu tsuke soup. Both dishes are crafted with over 30 ingredients, and diners are invited to customise their bowls with additional condiments for that touch of the personal.
Regardless of which bowl you go for, the soba noodles are the star of the show here, a labour of love that boast just the right amount of bounce, chew and earthy grounding. There are fewer more satisfying bowls in a city full of them.
When is No Name Noodle open? No Name Noodle is open every day except Monday for lunch, between 11am and 3pm.
Do I need to book in advance? Oh yes, and it’s one hell of a process.
How much should I expect to spend? A bowl of noodles at No Name Noodle clocks in at around ฿800 (£19).
Closest BTS/MRT? Phrom Phong BTS is a 20 minute walk away.
Ideal for a modern curry and rice restaurant that’s really so much more than that…
Bangkok’s historic Talat Noi neighbourhood, sitting pretty on the outskirts of the city’s Chinatown, is one of the most thrusting in the city, where seemingly not a day goes by without a new cocktail bar opening or an art installation popping up.
Charmgang, now in its fifth year and the recent recipient of a Michelin Bib Gourmand, exemplifies this new sense of cool in the area, a restaurant that’s both traditional and forward-thinking in its approach, and one of, quite simply, the best places to eat in Bangkok.
Conceived by a trio of ultra-ambitious chefs – Geravich ‘Mew’ Mesaengnilverakul, Aruss ‘Jai’ Lerlerstkull, and Atcharaporn ‘Aew’ Kiatthanawat – who met at world renowned Nahm, the restaurant is nominally a ‘curry shop’, and true to this billing, the curries here are gorgeous, a skilful blend of Thai culinary tradition and the occasional modern technique, all to be enjoyed in a tastefully furnished, artistically minded dining room that shares its energy with the open kitchen which overlooks it.
Yep, you’ll hear the clatter of the wok and the pok-pok of the pestle and mortar while you eat, the perfect seasoning for a graceful, elegant spread. Do not miss the beef cheek panang curry, a celebration of fresh coconut milk as much as it is of chilli and perfectly braised, surrendering beef. Desserts are fabulous, too, so do try to save room.
The team’s success with Charmgang led to the late 2023 opening of sister restaurant Charmkrung just up the road. Taking over the top floor of a nondescript office building (the night-time views of twinkling Bangkok on high are stirring), this natural wine bar and small plates restaurant sees chef Jai eschewing the by-the-book Thai cooking he champions so brilliantly at Charmgang for a more playful approach, focusing on small bites and medium-sized mains that riff on aaharn kap klaem (Thai drinking foods). As the chef himself puts the difference between his two restaurants; Charmkrung “goes with drinks,” Charmgang “goes with rice”.
Highlights on the menu include Jai’s take on kanom krok, here filled with a silky chicken liver pâté and topped with pomegranate seeds and a little wedge of boiled egg, and an exquisitely balanced smoked and pickled tomato salad, adorned with satisfyingly complete batons of crab leg and a load of crunchy stuff.
The fish curry with a pleasing slab of pomfret is served with raisin-studded roti, a nod to the chef’s Southern Thai heritage, while the deceptively simple but flavour-packed grilled cabbage follows a recipe taken from his school canteen. All are matched brilliantly with an inspired drink list, ranging from cocktails that incorporate Chinese herbs and spices to funky natural wines from small-scale labels that are hard to find elsewhere in Bangkok.
The space is playful and fun, with both tables and bar counters making the restaurant equally suited to large groups, dinner dates and solo diners perched at the counter watching the kitchen at work. A refreshingly undogmatic wine list completes the package, mixing both traditional styles and regions with more progressive and experimental wines, while always keeping a keen eye on the wines’ ability to match the complexity of contemporary Thai cuisine.
A year and a half in from opening, and it’s clear Charmkrung is another winner from a team who have an inimitable grasp of what Bangkokians want from a modern Thai restaurant. Praise the lord, then, that the prolific team have this year opened a third restaurant, this time named Charmkok. We can’t wait to check it out!
When are Charmgang and Charmkrung open? Charmgang is open daily for dinner, from 6pm to 10:30pm. It opens for lunch, too, on Saturdays and Sundays. Charmkrung is open from 6pm to midnight daily. Do be aware that the kitchen closes at 11pm.
Do I need to book in advance? Reservations for Charmgang are highly recommended, and usually required for a week or two in advance. Charmkrung is a more sprawling, casual space, and bookings are less essential but certainly still recommended.
How much should I expect to spend? A full spread of curries, soups, salads, relishes and the rest at Charmgang will set you back around ฿3000 (£65), before booze is added. At Charmkrung, small plates range from ฿90-290 (£2-6.50), with larger dishes between ฿190-720 (£4-16). Genuinely interesting glasses of wine are available from around ฿300.
Closest BTS/MRT? Hua Lamphong MRT is a 10 minute walk away from both. It’s just a couple of minutes walk between Charmgang and Charmkrung if you fancy tackling both in one indulgent night.
Ideal for perfectly poised marriage of Mexican-Indian cuisine from one of the world’s most recognisable chefs…
Even those not conversant in Bangkok’s culinary landscape might recognise chef Gaggan Anand, perhaps having seen him on Chef’s Table, or on a a TikTok reel traversing Bangkok via tuk tuk with Ed Sheeran or, you know, having read the entry on Gaa just a few paragraphs previously.
At Ms. Maria and Mr. Singh’s, chef Anand tells the culinary story of a ‘’love affair between a Mexican hometown girl and an Indian city boy’’ via a perfectly poised marriage of Mexican-Indian cuisine that the restaurant has dubbed ‘fantasy cuisine’, realised here by the two head chefs Hernán Crispín Villalva and Roshan Kumar. Trust us on this one; it works.
Here, diners can savour Anand’s signature crab curry, which is now ingeniously paired with Goan poee bread, ideal for pulling through the intricate sauce. The menu also features keema paneer quesadillas, bursting with the robust taste of mutton and toasted spices, followed by pork vindaloo tacos accompanied by a tart pineapple salsa, striking an intoxicating yet strangely comforting balance of flavour and texture.
Both are part of the latest tasting menu, offered at an attractive price of 6000 THB (£130) for two, and served in the fresh setting of the second floor of the eponymous Gaggan Anand restaurant. The atmosphere is laid-back and whimsical, with the interior design drawing inspiration from both Oaxaca and Jodhpur, creating a lively and colourful ambiance.
Echoing this playful spirit, guests are greeted by a bright neon sign as they step into the restaurant, boldly stating that “love should never be mild.” The dishes served here not only match this bold statement but also reflect Chef Anand’s continued passion for creating food that’s as spirited and joyous as ever.
When is Ms Maria and Mr Singh open? Ms Maria and Mr Singh is closed on Mondays, and open for just dinner (6pm to 11pm) from Tuesday to Fridays. The restaurant also opens for lunch at the weekend.
Do I need to book in advance? Reservations are highly recommended, and usually required for a week or two in advance.
How much should I expect to spend? The tasting menu for two here is priced at ฿6000 (£130)
Closest BTS/MRT? Phrom Phong BTS is a 20 minute walk away.
Inspired by Japanese izakaya style dining, Aunglo by Yangrank is a paean to the grill (‘aunglo’ is a type of charcoal grill in Thai), expressed via a procession of blistered and burnished sticks of seafood, meat and root vegetable that are as delicious as any aunty’s moo ping you’ll find outside any BTS station. And that’s the highest praise we could bestow on a place…
The counter bar here faces an open kitchen where chefs glaze and rotate a series of skewers, all whilst maintaining a decent side of conversation and good cheer, the intermittent licking of flames the perfect clarion call that the glaze is doing its job. Not exactly harming things in the flavour department, that glaze is often a thick, reduced coconut curry, a massaman-coated, barbecued squash a delicious case in point that demands re-upping several times.
Sure, you’ll have to factor in leaving absolutely humming of smoke, but it’s well worth it for the delicate kiss of charcoal that every dish at Aunglo by Yangrak has received, even the desserts.
When is Aunglo by Yangrak open? Aunglo by Yangrak is closed on Tuesdays, and open every other day for both lunch and dinner.
Do I need to book in advance? You can book a spot via direct message on their Instagram, but it’s not often full.
How much should I expect to spend? The big feast of skewers, sides and beers for two won’t top ฿3000 (£65)
Closest BTS/MRT? Saint Louis BTS is a 10 minute walk from Aunglo by Yangrak.
Ideal for neo-Indian fine dining with genuine green credentials…
Billed as Thailand’s first urban farm and zero-waste restaurant (a bold claim that’s a little tough to verify, perhaps), neo-Indian fine dining restaurant Haoma certainly wears its sustainability chops proudly on its sleeve, with a biophilic dining room that merges the outdoors and in succinctly, and a tasting menu built around on-site hydroponically grown produce (you’ll get a tour of the fish ponds and gardens when you arrive) and organic ingredients sourced from their sister farm in Chiang Mai.
It’s an approach where each discipline of the restaurant – the food, winelist, ambience and hospitality – feeds into the next, creating a homogeneous, self-sustaining feel that you can’t help but admire. Both a Michelin star and Michelin green star for sustainability have followed.
That’s not to say that this is purely branding; Chef Deepanker Khosla certainly puts his money where his mouth is. Following a hugely successful, altruistic pandemic project called the #NoOneHungry campaign that has given more than 500’000 meals to those most in need in Bangkok, the chef has now opened Bangkok’s first permanent soup kitchen. Legend.
On the menu back at Haoma, just two choices; a tasting menu of meat and seafood or a vegetarian version, and 15 courses or 11. In the lean, green spirit of the place (smells like green spirit?), we went for the shorter vegetarian option at Haoma, but certainly didn’t feel short changed. This is a precision procession of loosely Indian, pretty-as-a-picture plates that felt both clean and indulgent, avant garde but anchored, the storytelling behind each dish helped along by a series of postcards and artefacts that rest on your table as you eat.
At 3500 THB (around £75) for the ten courser, Haoma also represents an absolute steal for a restaurant that’s surely due a second star in the coming years.
When is Haoma open? Haoma is closed on Mondays, and open for dinner (5:30pm to 11pm) Tuesdays to Fridays. At the weekend, it’s open for lunch too, from midday to 2pm.
Do I need to book in advance? You can usually book a table at Haoma the day before.
How much should I expect to spend? The Chefs Tasting menu of 10 courses is currently priced at ฿5990 (£135).
Closest BTS/MRT? Asok BTS and Sukhumvit MRT are a 15 minute walk from Haoma.
Ideal for a meticulous meeting of the Med and the Chao Phraya…
When it was announced that a globally celebrated chef would open a fancy French restaurant in a 5 star hotel on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, Bangkok’s culinary cognoscenti could have been forgiven for wondering if another such place was really necessary.
But such is the quality of Côte by Mauro Colagreco, and the unique skills of head chef Davide Garavaglia, that those doubts died down almost as soon as the restaurant had finished its first service, with the spot now arguably the city’s destination fine-dining restaurant for those not in the mood for Thai (fools).
Of course, the pedigree here is undeniable. Mauro Colagreco, whose illustrious career’s highlight is the three Michelin-starred Mirazur on the French Riviera, has brought a slice of the Mediterranean to Bangkok, with a tasting menu that imbues traditional French technique with the odd Thai flourish to great effect. Here, it’s a nine course tasting menu (there’s also a shorter lunch affair) which see the diner put complete trust in the chef.
Whilst we wouldn’t want to ruin the surprise here, the restaurant has a wicked way with seafood, a dish of local sea urchin and textures of cauliflower landing as one of the best dishes we’ve enjoyed in the city, a perfect marriage of sense of place and the chef’s own idiosyncrasies. The panoramic river views certainly do no harm.
In the 2025 Michelin Guide for Thailand announcement, the consistency and quality of Côte was further underscored by Michelin’s awarding of a second star. Whilst we hate to be ‘that guy’, a third feels kind of inevitable at this stage.
When is Côte open? Côte is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and open for both lunch and dinner Wednesday through Sunday.
Do I need to book in advance? You can usually book a table at Côte the day before.
How much should I expect to spend? The full nine course tasting menu is currently priced at ฿7800 (£184). The shorter four course lunch menu is ฿3300 (£78).
Closest BTS/MRT? Saphan Taksin BTS is a 15 minute walk away.
Ideal for Thai comfort food given a respectful, ridiculously delicious reinvention…
The dynamic chef duo Napol ‘Joe’ Jantraget and Saki Hoshino are responsible for some of Bangkok’s most genuinely enjoyable upscale restaurants, from their work at the innovative 80/20 just up the road to their more recently opened celebration of Central Thai food at Nawa.
You’ll find that innate sense of hospitality at Samlor, too. Meaning ‘tricycle’ in Thai, it’s a name that hints at the more homely vibes this place exudes, complemented by its bare bricks interior and chalkboard specials menu.
The signature dish here is without doubt the Samlor omlette, an obscene looking thing with a soufflé-like rise, crispy top and runny centre. Served simply with a little fish sauce and chilli, it’s no doubt a knockout, but certainly not the only dish that deserves your attention (of useful note; it can be ordered in a smaller, more manageable version for a third of its usual price).
Even better, we think, is the slow-cooked wagyu beef krapow. Perfumed with deep-fried holy basil leaves, it’s an absurdly satisfying riff on Thailand’s favourite comfort food, which pretty much sums up the restaurant’s strongest suit, we think. Pair it with that omelette in place of your usual frilly fried egg, and you’ve got yourself a pretty perfect meal. As long as there’s plenty of jasmine rice to hand, of course…
…but to order so conservatively would be to miss out on some of the other highlights, including smoked pork ribs with jaew and a genuinely exciting take on the Laotian salad naem khao tod.
With a local craft beer (of which Samlor has a fine selection) this order will give you change from 1000 THB (£21). That’s some serious value.
When is Samlor open? Samlor is closed on Tuesdays, and open for dinner only (6pm to 10:30pm) on Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. At the weekend, it’s open for lunch, too, between 11am and 1:30pm.
Do I need to book in advance? You’ll want to book Samlor a week or two in advance, via their Instagram.
How much should I expect to spend? The omlette and pad grapao are priced at ฿300 (£6.50) and ฿400 (£9), respectively.
Closest BTS/MRT? Saphan Taksin BTS is a 20 minute walk away.
Ideal for Bangkok’s most acclaimed omakase experience…
This exclusive traditional omakase sushi bar is the work of Chef Masato Shimizu, a culinary virtuoso whose journey began in Japan and soared to new heights in New York City, where he became the youngest chef to be honoured with a Michelin star at the tender age of 29.
Sushi Masato, tucked away off Soi Sukhumvit 31 (there it is again) behind an unmarked door, brings the chef’s meticulous craft from over 20 years of experience to the forefront, showcasing both his skills and his impeccable sourcing directly from the fish markets of Tokyo to a first-floor chef’s counter. Though that first floor is chef Shimizu’s domain, for a more laid back, languid experience, head upstairs to Raw Bar Masato, where you can order a la carte sushi of the same premium quality as the full experience below.
Securing a reservation at Sushi Masato requires some effort; seats are released on a month-by-month basis, precisely at 00:00 hrs on the 15th of every month for the following month. Amazingly for a restaurant of this pedigree and poise, there’s a takeaway menu of sorts at Sushi Masato; via their website, you can order a bespoke mini omakase box to be delivered to your door for the princely sum of 2500 THB.
When is Sushi Mataso open? Sushi Mataso is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, and is open for both lunch (midday to 2pm) and dinner (5pm to 10pm) Wednesday through Sunday.
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, indeed, and it’s something of a scramble On the 15th of every month at midnight, new seat slots for the following month are released.
How much should I expect to spend? The lunch omakase is ฿4000 (£87), the dinner ฿6000 (£130).
Closest BTS/MRT? Phrom Phong BTS is a 10 minute walk away.
Ideal for refined, contemporary German cuisine in a serene villa setting…
In a city so steeped in exceptional Thai food that fish sauce dapples your pores when you do finally come up for air, Sühring offers something a little different: a refined, contemporary exploration of German cuisine, masterfully executed by twin chefs Thomas and Mathias Sühring. Born in East Berlin and trained in three-starred kitchens across Europe, the twins bring an intoxicating mixture of technical mastery and nostalgia to each bite of their sprawling, 15-course tasting menu.
Sühring opened in 2016 with the backing of renowned chef Gaggan Anand, who said soon after, when the accolades started shimmering: “It sounds capitalistic, but I actually bought my own competition.”
That backing represented something of a risk as, interestingly, the brothers had never cooked German food professionally before, instead spending their formative years immersed in the rigid world of French classical cookery. But with memories of their grandmother’s cooking and a desire to show a different side of an often-maligned German cuisine to the world, the restaurant got famous fast, picking up a star at the inaugural Thailand Michelin Guide in 2017, and a second just a year later.
Perhaps it shouldn’t come as such a surprise that a German fine dining restaurant was such a success from the off in Bangkok. In fact, Thailand represents something of a captive audience for the cuisine. As acclaimed chef Andy Ricker writes in his excellent book Pok Pok, when discussing the Thais love of pork knuckle: “this seemingly incongruous Thai dish is actually a fine example of sanctioned fusion food. Germans have been coming to Thailand for many years. Thais love to drink beer – matter of fact, much of the beer in Thailand is based on German brew… So the German beer garden concept has really taken hold here. German food, too.”
You won’t find any tough, over-salted pork knuckle at Sühring. Forget any preconceived notions of heavy, rustic fare; here, traditional German dishes are reimagined with elegance, precision, and a lightness of touch that transcends borders.
The tasting menu – or ‘Sühring Erlebnis’ – is a journey. Signature dishes like their spätzle (soft egg noodles), served with aged parmesan or seasonal truffles, were once the talk of the town, and are still just as delicious. The Brotzeit bread service showcases their dedication to craft and a sense of old school generosity – homemade sourdough and soft pretzel is served with spreads including Oldenburger butter, schmalz, and obatzda cheese dip, accompanied by pickles and dry-aged beef. You could leave happy after this course alone, quite frankly, but to do so would be to miss out on Grandma’s Eggnog, served in miniature bottles based on their grandmother’s recipe and just delightful.
That sense of the familial is peppered throughout an evening at Sühring. Set within a beautifully restored 1970s villa, dining here feels like being welcomed into a very stylish, food-loving German home (and one that charges you several hundred pounds just as you’re getting up to leave). The villa itself is actually an integral part of the experience, offering four distinct dining spaces. After something intimate? Get yourself in the Living Room. Something sun-drenched for you, sir? The Glass House is where you should head. Or, if you don’t like talking to your partner, the Kitchen offers counter seating where you can watch the chefs tweezering with studied silence.
Service is bright and knowledgeable, with dish explainers that you actually want to listen to rather than stab your eyes out with your knife. That knife is a serious business, it should said; a whole selection of blades is presented for your meat course, for diners to choose from. It’s a nice performative touch.
All in all, Sühring is quite possibly the best ‘European’ fine dining experience in the city, and that third star (that guy, again) doesn’t feel far away.
When is Sühring open? Sühring is open for dinner service from Wednesday to Sunday, 5:30pm to 10pm, with lunch available Thursday through Sunday from 12:30pm to 2:30pm. The restaurant remains closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Do I need to book in advance? Absolutely essential, this is one of Bangkok’s most sought-after reservations.
How much should I expect to spend? The tasting menu is priced from ฿4,800 for lunch and ฿7,800 for dinner.
Closest BTS/MRT? Chong Nonsi BTS or Lumphini MRT are the nearest, but a taxi is recommended for the final leg into Yen Akat.
Ideal for consistently brilliant Southern Thai food…
‘Do you like spicy?’. The familiar question fired at a farang upon ordering. Sometimes it’s more of a warning: ’very spicy’, or words to that effect. Here, the waiter’s words of caution were conspicuous in their absence; when you come to Khua Kling Pak Sod, you know what you’re letting yourself in for. This is Southern Thai food and as such, unashamedly pungent, ferocious and, best of all, delicious.
The namesake khua kling – a dry pork curry – is unreal. And hot. Abundant ‘rat shit’ chillies are used as garnish and are as forthright as their nickname. All this bravado shouldn’t detract from how good the food is though – it’s brilliant. The blue swimmer crab yellow curry is just masterful. Make sure to order lots of rice to smooth out those rough edges, and you’re set. In a city with new Southern Thai restaurants seemingly opening daily, Khua Kling Pak Sod still stands out as one of the very best.
Ideal for unapologetically traditional Southern Thai cuisine…
In a city approaching Southern Thai saturation point (somewhat ironic to say so straight after Khua Kling), Janhom sets itself apart not through a ‘refined’, ‘elevated’, or any other neutering of the form, but rather through a sheer, unwavering dedication to the traditional way of doing things, both in technique and seasoning.
For over two decades, chef Poonsri ‘Auntie Baew’ Sarikarn has been serving up some of Bangkok’s most uncompromising Southern food from this modest but totally perfect restaurant in Wang Thonglang. We’re loath to say there’s an ethos here, to ponder a ‘culinary philosophy’ as the Chef’s Table strings crank into life – just a commitment to doing things right. So, that’s absolutely no sweetening to accommodate what many Southerners might consider the more tentative tastes of the capital. Instead, Auntie Baew’s versions remain steadfastly true to their Surat Thani roots – bracingly sour, properly salty, and with a chilli heat that’s spicy, sure, but also fruity, exacting and invigorating.
Auntie Baew’s daily ritual of hand-pounding the restaurant’s curry pastes might look labour-intensive in a city increasingly predisposed to the blender or tub, but it provides a depth of flavour and ’roundness’ that simply can’t be replicated with commercial alternatives, forming the backbone of the restaurant’s signature dishes.
The gaeng leung (sour yellow curry) here is as good as it gets (both the dish and life). Have yours with chunks of barramundi, poached in the curry on the bone, and coconut shoots, which have the remarkable ability to soak up all that broth whilst retaining crunch and structural integrity. It’s one of the best curries in the city – assertive but complex, and with enough chilli heat to dust off the very worst of Bangkok hangovers.
The restaurant’s gaeng tai pla (fermented fish guts curry) serves as another benchmark dish, a heady, moody bowl that’s seasoned with the deftest of touches. Forget the fifth taste – Auntie Baew seems to have coaxed out a new form of flavour in her gaeng tai pla, somewhere between earthy and sweet that has my head spinning everytime I eat it.
Something neutral, a crisp counterpoint, is required here, and it comes in the form of the pla tod kamin (deep-fried fish with crispy turmeric and garlic) and the pak liang pad khai (stir-fried melinjo leaves with egg), both of which soothe the most bracing notes of the other dishes orbiting the rice. When all paired together, it’s such a harmonious spread, it grips you and pulls you in, not letting up until the final, gratis chilled watermelon hits the table to cleanse everything that’s just happened.
Do we even need to say that the dining room is fairly basic, or that the beers stand on one of those little stainless steel trolleys next to a bucket of ice, or that the menu is vast, laminated and wipeable? It’s that kind of place, and with all the turmeric involved, the stainless steel, the wipeable menus, and the laid back vibe, are all an absolute necessity. Need we say more?
When is Janhom open? Janhom is open every day from 10am to 9pm.
Do I need to book in advance? The restaurant is large enough and far enough from the city centre that bookings aren’t usually necessary. During weekend lunch service, you might want to, just to be safe.
How much should I expect to spend? ฿500 or so per person, representing exceptional value for such meticulously prepared food.
Closest BTS/MRT? The nearest station is Airport Rail Link – Ramkhamhaeng Station, though not within walking distance. Janhom is somewhat out in the sticks (relatively speaking), so take the opportunity for a well-earned snooze in a taxi to wherever you’re going next.
Buying a mattress; as long as it’s soft and comfy, it’s good enough to sleep on, right?
If only things were that easy. For one, we wouldn’t need to write another word. But perhaps more importantly, it’s essential to remember that not all mattresses are made equal and the quality of your sleep depends on factors far beyond simple comfort.
Whilst this is a decision certainly best slept on, here’s a few things to bear in mind; our top tips for choosing the right mattress for you.
Go Into A Store And Lie Down
When it comes to comparing mattresses, there’s nothing quite like trying out a mattress in person. And fortunately, any reputable mattress supplier will be more than happy for you to come to their store and let you try out their mattresses for size. Sure, you won’t be able to take a well-earned nap right there in public, but you can certainly get a sense of how the mattress feels first-hand. The store’s salespeople will also be able to guide you through some of the more impenetrable jargon that comes with mattress shopping.
Once you know what kind of mattress feels right for you and what you need from a mattress, find some reviews online to cross-reference your instincts.
Then, it’s back to a physical store that sells the mattresses you have shortlisted so you can try them out thoroughly before you buy them. We recommend trying out the mattress in the position you tend to sleep in, to identify any immediate issues lurking beneath the surface.
We don’t know about you, but all this comparing and travelling to mattress stores to test them out has made us knackered, we need our new mattress now.
Ideal Tip: It should be noted here that because there isn’t much regulation in the mattress industry, many retailers sell the same mattress under different model names, preventing customers from comparison shopping. The best way to get around this nefarious tactic is to obtain detailed product specifications, and then compare their materials and construction.
Find Brands That Offer A Sleep Trial
A mattress is a big investment. Luckily, many big brands allow you to try the mattress out at home first, with no financial commitment necessary should the mattress not suit your specific sleep needs. Yep, if you don’t love your new mattress, you can send it back and exchange it for a new one!
It’s not all positive news, though; you should be aware that there are strict conditions with these types of sleep trials. Most will allow you to remove the original packaging, sure, but insist you use a mattress protector for the duration of the trial period. Some insist that the original packaging is kept on, which pretty much defeats the whole point of trying to find out if you’re happy with the mattress. Unless, of course, you enjoy sleeping on a squeaky plastic sheet.
Because of this, do make sure you read the terms and conditions of your trial and be sure to keep proof of purchase.
Buy Within Your Budget
The last thing you want is a sleepless night on your new mattress, worrying about money; that would rather defeat the point of investing in your sleep, after all!
Of course, when you buy a mattress, you need to work within your budget, and a top quality one can be surprisingly expensive. In fact, according to finance and budget experts Nimble Fins, a premium mattress will cost you in the region of £3000, on average. Considering we’re advised to replace our mattresses once every ten years or so, that represents an enormous outlay over the course of your (admittedly well rested) lifetime.
That said, the consumer experts at Which have identified their ‘best buys’, with several clocking in at under a grand and some not much more than £150, showing that quality needn’t cost a fortune. Rather than fretting about price, work out your budget precisely, and adapt your needs accordingly.
You’ll also be pleased to hear that the guys over at CHOICE Australia found that “many cheaper mattresses are just as effective as pricey models”. However, they also found that the same mattresses are sold at totally different prices in different stores, so do shop around.
Now that you’ve sorted your budget, let’s talk about what your money is actually buying. The material of your mattress isn’t just industry jargon – it fundamentally affects how you’ll sleep for the next decade.
The mattress market has evolved far beyond the traditional spring models your grandparents swore by. Today’s shoppers are typically choosing between foam mattresses or hybrid mattresses, each offering distinct advantages depending on your sleep style.
Memory foam mattresses have gained popularity for their body-contouring properties and motion isolation – perfect if your partner tosses and turns like they’re auditioning for Cirque du Soleil. However, some sleepers find them too warm or feel like they’re sinking into quicksand.
Hybrid mattresses attempt to offer the best of both worlds, combining supportive springs with comfort layers of foam or latex. They tend to sleep cooler and provide more bounce (make of that what you will), whilst still offering decent pressure relief.
Then there’s latex, which offers natural breathability and durability, though it comes with a heftier price tag. And yes, traditional innerspring mattresses are still around, often at the budget-friendly end of the spectrum.
The key is matching the material to your needs: side sleepers often prefer softer foam for pressure relief, stomach sleepers typically need firmer support, and back sleepers usually fall somewhere in between. Hot sleepers should prioritize breathable materials, whilst those with allergies might lean towards hypoallergenic options like natural latex.
Making A List, Checking it Twice
If we haven’t driven you to bed already, we should reiterate that there are just so many considerations when choosing a mattress. If we wrote them all, this article would send you to sleep. So, we’re going to keep this one brief and to the point; here’s a useful summary of things you need to take into account when choosing a mattress:
Firmness
Material
Whether you sleep on your own or with a partner
Airflow
Warranty/ Guarantee
Mattress size
The position you sleep in
How warm your bedroom gets.
The lifespan of a mattress
It’s also important to consider here if you really need a new mattress. As the Guardian reports, “As the sleep economy grows, online companies vie to sell us new mattresses, offering 100-day returns. This has helped create an impossible waste mountain”. They go on to highlight that “The UK threw away more than 7m mattresses in 2017, the vast majority of which went straight to landfill”.
We’ve all seen a poorly disposed of mattress at the side of the road once in a while; well, imagine that multiplied by 7 million, every single year.
There are a surprising amount of mattress scammers out there, who sell second-hand mattresses dressed up as new ones, so make sure you buy from a reputable seller or directly from the manufacturer. Avoid unknown eBay sellers and if the price seems too good to be true, it likely is too good to be true.
The Bottom Line
Considering how sleep is essential in maintaining our overall health, the mattress you sleep on should be treated with respect and deep consideration. If you do make the wrong choice and can’t return your mattress, it’s not the end of the world – there are always mattress toppers.
With its medieval lanes and soaring cathedral spire, Norwich wears its heritage lightly whilst punching well above its weight in the culinary stakes. England’s most complete medieval city has become something of a foodie destination in recent years, with a dining scene that celebrates Norfolk’s exceptional produce whilst embracing international flavours with open arms.
The Fine City benefits from being surrounded by some of Britain’s most fertile farmland, with the North Sea delivering fresh catches to its doorstep. This abundance of local ingredients has attracted chefs who’ve swapped London’s bright lights for Norfolk’s quieter charms, bringing serious cooking credentials to bear on superb raw materials.
Norwich’s dining scene radiates out from the historic Lanes, a warren of medieval streets now home to independent cafés, wine bars and restaurants that wouldn’t look out of place in Shoreditch. Meanwhile, the bohemian stretch of St Benedicts Street has evolved into the city’s restaurant row, where you’ll find everything from Michelin Guide-listed fine dining to classic French bistros.
The city’s food credentials were given a significant boost when Richard Bainbridge won the Great British Menu , putting Norwich on the national culinary map. Since then, a wave of ambitious openings has transformed the local scene, with young chefs choosing Norfolk over London and bringing restaurant-quality cooking to neighbourhood prices.
That’s not to say Norwich has abandoned its traditional roots. You’ll still find excellent fish and chips cooked to perfection, alongside Indian restaurants that bring genuine street food flavours. It’s this mix of serious ambition and local character that makes Norwich such a rewarding place to eat.
Here’s where to eat brilliantly in Norwich right now.
Benedicts, St Benedicts Street
Ideal for experiencing Norwich’s finest cooking in relaxed surroundings…
Richard Bainbridge’s neighbourhood restaurant has become Norwich’s foodie calling card, and for good reason. The Great British Menu winner has created something special here: serious cooking without an ounce of stuffiness, served in a dining room that feels more like an extension of someone’s particularly stylish front room than a formal restaurant.
Bainbridge earned his stripes in some serious kitchens before returning to his native Norfolk, and his experience shows in cooking that’s both technically accomplished and deeply satisfying. The menu changes with the seasons but always showcases the best of local produce. You might find Norfolk quail with pickled grapes and walnut, or Cromer crab dressed simply with cucumber and dill oil, the sweet crab meat singing against the clean, green notes of the garnish.
The famous Nanny Bush’s trifle remains a constant on the menu, and rightly so. This is Bainbridge’s grandmother’s recipe, the very dessert that won him television glory on the Great British Menu. Layers of elderflower jelly, rich custard and light sponge create something that’s both nostalgic and sophisticated, the kind of pudding that makes you understand why British desserts were once the envy of Europe.
Service strikes just the right note, knowledgeable without being pompous, friendly without being overfamiliar. The wine list celebrates both local producers and classic regions, with markup that won’t make you wince. Lunch menus start at £42 for three courses, whilst evening brings tasting menus from £65. Given the quality on offer and the local prices, this represents remarkable value for cooking of this calibre.
The 40-cover restaurant fills fast, particularly at weekends, so booking well in advance is essential. They close for a fortnight each summer whilst Bainbridge sources new ingredients and develops menus, so check before making special journey plans. This is destination dining that happens to be on your doorstep if you live in Norwich.
Ideal for pasta perfectionists seeking Italian soul in Norfolk…
Oliver Boon’s Italian restaurant occupies a lovely spot at the bottom of Timber Hill, and from the moment you walk through the door, you know you’re in for something special. Boon cut his teeth in Gordon Ramsay and Michel Roux Jr’s kitchens before deciding to bring exceptional Italian cooking to Norwich, and the result is a restaurant that feels both polished and personal.
Everything here revolves around the pasta, and watching the chefs rolling out sheets of dough through the open kitchen pass becomes part of the entertainment. This is the real deal: Italian technique at its finest applied to the best ingredients, with results that would make a nonna weep tears of joy. The 24-month aged Parmesan croquettes arrive as golden orbs that give way to molten, intensely savoury centres. They’re just fabulous with a crisp, cold beer.
But it’s the pasta that really sets pulses racing. The cacio e pepe demonstrates how three simple ingredients can create something transcendent when handled with skill and respect. Tonnarelli arrives perfectly al dente, tossed with aged Pecorino Romano and freshly cracked black pepper, the starchy pasta water creating a glossy emulsion that clings to each strand. It’s a dish that shows why humble Italian cooking conquered the world.
Boon’s cooking earned a spot in the Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants within just two years of opening, recognition that reflects both the quality of the food and the warmth of the welcome. The wine list leans heavily Italian, naturally, with some crackling bottles from lesser-known regions that show real knowledge and passion. Staff know their wines and aren’t shy about making recommendations that might expand your horizons.
Pastas and mains courses hover around £25, which isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s not an outrage either in this economy. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between smart enough for a special occasion and relaxed enough for a Tuesday night supper. And that’s what it’s all about, don’t you think?
Ideal for fire fanatics and anyone who takes their steak seriously…
Hidden above Gonzo’s Tea Room on London Street, Brix and Bones feels like a brilliant secret that’s just waiting to be discovered. This 30-seater revolves around a custom-built two-metre fire pit where chef George Wood, who honed his skills at London’s Temper, works genuine magic with flame and smoke.
The theatre begins the moment you climb the stairs and catch your first whiff of that distinctive charcoal smoke. The open kitchen dominates the space, with the fire pit as its beating heart, and watching the chefs work over the flames becomes part of the evening’s entertainment. This isn’t style over substance though; the cooking here is serious business, with every element carefully considered and expertly executed.
The dry-aged beef comes from Norfolk farms and gets the full treatment here. The 85-day aged steaks are things of beauty, developing the kind of deep, complex flavours that make you understand why people get obsessive about beef. Arriving perfectly charred on the outside and blushingly pink within, the smoke adds another layer of complexity to meat that’s already singing with flavour.
But this isn’t just a temple to meat worship. The Brancaster mussels with ‘nduja show equal finesse, the sweet molluscs playing beautifully against the spicy Calabrian sausage, while foraged mushrooms reveal the kind of umami depth that only comes from careful sourcing and skillful cooking. Even vegetables get the star treatment here, emerging from the flames with appealing char marks and concentrated flavours.
Save room for the bone marrow fudge doughnuts, which sound completely bonkers but turn out to be utterly delicious. The rich, savoury marrow works surprisingly well in a sweet context, creating something that’s both playful and deeply satisfying. It’s exactly the kind of creative thinking that makes Brix and Bones such a thrilling place to eat.
Grab one of the bar seats if you can; watching the kitchen theatre unfold adds immeasurably to the experience. Smaller plates start from around £8, making it possible to graze your way through the menu without breaking the bank.
Ideal for Francophiles seeking bistro classics cooked with genuine conviction…
Thomas Aubrit’s intimate French bistro occupies a charming spot in the Norwich Lanes, and stepping inside feels like being in a neighbourhood joint in provincial France. Aubrit cooks the food of his French childhood here, and his obvious passion for the classics shines through in every dish.
This is bistro cooking at its most forthright and satisfying, free from modern reinterpretations or unnecessary embellishments. The French onion soup arrives under a blanket of molten Gruyère, the rich beef stock beneath speaking of hours of patient simmering. The steak frites comes with a pitch perfect béarnaise, the sauce glossy and perfectly emulsified, with just enough acid to cut through the richness of the meat. It tastes and feels like it’s been made to order, which is impressive stuff, even if it’s been held at just the right heat for service.
Save room for the crème brûlée, which seems to be hitting every table, and rightly so. The custard beneath the caramelised sugar is silk-smooth and intensely vanilla-scented, whilst the sugar top cracks with satisfying precision. It’s the kind of dessert that reminds you why French patisserie conquered the world, executed with the kind of care that comes from a deepheld respect for tradition.
The steak tartare provides another highlight, mixed tableside with appropriate ceremony. Aubrit knows his way around raw beef, seasoning it with just the right balance of capers, shallots and egg yolk to enhance rather than mask the quality of the meat. Served with golden frites and a small salad, it makes for a transportive lunch.
The French-only wine list reflects Aubrit’s personal passion, with bottles chosen for their character and story rather than their fame. Staff are happy to guide you through the selections, and you’ll often discover something new and exciting. Lunch can be as simple as a croque monsieur for around £10, whilst evening brings heartier options like bavette and duck confit. The upstairs tables offer a more intimate setting if you’re planning something romantic.
Built in 1754, this Grade I listed Georgian mansion brings a touch of Jane Austen to Norwich dining. The glittering chandeliers, ornate ceiling roses and period furnishings create an atmosphere of faded grandeur that makes afternoon tea here feel like a special event rather than just another meal.
Following the recent passing of beloved Chef Director Richard Hughes, The Assembly House continues under the careful stewardship of his family, maintaining the same high standards that made it a Norwich institution. The themed afternoon teas change regularly, offering everything from literary inspirations to seasonal celebrations, but the standards remain consistently high. Finger sandwiches arrive with carefully trimmed crusts and generous fillings, whilst the scones emerge warm from the oven with the kind of light, fluffy texture that shows real skill in the baking.
The selection of delicate cakes demonstrates genuine patisserie technique, each one a small work of art that tastes as good as it looks. The ‘Beforenoon Tea’ flips the traditional concept for early risers, serving the full works between 8 and 11am for those who prefer their indulgence with their morning coffee. Meanwhile, the Afternoon Cheese option provides a savoury alternative for those who find traditional afternoon tea a bit too sweet for their tastes.
At £32.50 for the full afternoon tea experience, it’s not exactly cheap, but you’re paying for the setting as much as the food. The Music Room, with its soaring ceiling and period details, provides the most theatrical backdrop, whilst the smaller rooms offer more intimate settings for special occasions.
The breakfast menu offers everything from full English to lighter continental options in surroundings that make even a simple bowl of porridge feel special. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to dress up a bit, if only to match the elegance of your surroundings. Booking is essential, particularly for weekend afternoon teas when the Assembly House fills with birthday celebrations and hen parties.
This family-run restaurant brings Indian street food to Norwich, focusing on the kind of vibrant, spicy food you’d find on the streets of Mumbai or Delhi. The vibrance (oh, the vibrance) is apparent from the moment you walk through the door, with bright lighting and Indian street photography creating a curated backdrop for dhaba-style cooking.
The masala fries alone justify the journey here, taking the humble chip and transforming it into something genuinely exciting with a blend of spices that builds heat gradually whilst adding layers of complexity. Meanwhile, the gol guppa provide a masterclass in textural contrast, the crispy puffed shells giving way to an explosion of spiced filling that hits every taste bud simultaneously.
The Kashmiri lamb shank showcases the kitchen’s skill with slow-cooked dishes, the meat falling off the bone after hours of gentle braising with mild red chillies and aromatic spices. It’s the kind of dish that demonstrates how good Indian cooking can be when it’s not dumbed down for Western palates, complex and deeply satisfying without relying on excessive heat.
The restaurant doesn’t serve alcohol due to the owners’ religious beliefs, but the food more than compensates for any disappointment. The fresh chutneys and pickles provide palate-cleansing acidity, whilst the various breads, from fluffy naan to crispy papadums, offer perfect vehicles for sopping up the various sauces.
Most main courses clock in at under £15, making this some of the best-value dining in Norwich. The generous portions mean you’ll leave feeling satisfied, whilst the assertive, complex flavours ensure you’ll be planning your return visit before you’ve even finished your meal. The family service adds to the atmosphere, with staff happy to guide you through the menu and adjust spice levels according to your tolerance.
Ideal for Asian fusion adventurers and vinyl enthusiasts…
Part restaurant, part vinyl bar, Blue Joanna occupies its own unique niche in Norwich’s dining scene. This Unthank Road favourite mashes up Asian and Latin American flavours with gleeful abandon, creating a menu that reads like a stoner’s fever dream but somehow makes perfect sense when you start eating. Even Alan Partridge might find himself won over by the Korean tofu tacos, though he’d probably still ask if they serve mini Kievs.
Korean tofu tacos share menu space with crispy banana blossom ‘fish’ tacos and pork belly with sriracha slaw, each dish bringing different influences together in ways that shouldn’t work but absolutely do. The whole approach is designed for sharing, encouraging diners to order multiple small plates and graze their way through the evening whilst discovering new flavour combinations.
The fact that the entire menu happens to be gluten-free comes as a pleasant surprise, though you’d never guess from the way the food tastes. The kitchen clearly knows how to coax maximum flavour from every ingredient, whether that’s achieving the perfect texture on the banana blossom or nailing the heat level on the sriracha slaw.
The vinyl collection provides the soundtrack to your meal, with everything from classic soul to contemporary electronic setting the mood. Live music and DJ sets keep things lively at weekends, creating an atmosphere that’s part restaurant, part neighbourhood hangout. The blue piano isn’t just for show either; expect impromptu performances when the mood takes hold.
With no dish tipping the tenner point, and drinks following a similar pricing structure, bills remain reasonable even after multiple rounds of ordering. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an entire evening, starting with early drinks and light snacks before progressing to more substantial dishes as the night develops. The laid back vibes attract a diverse crowd, from students stretching their budgets to young professionals who’ve recently moved to the area – estate agents in Norwich often mention Blue Joanna as one of Unthank Road’s draws.
Ideal for fish and chips with nearly a century of perfection…
This isn’t your average chippy. Operating for nearly a century, the Grosvenor hides a remarkable secret beneath its traditional shopfront: a basement dining area that seats 70 in what feels like a cross between an Anderson shelter and a seafood speakeasy. The downstairs space creates quite the atmosphere when busy, with the acoustics adding to the sense of being part of something special.
The fish and chips live up to the theatrical setting, with the Grosvenor Special arriving skinless and boneless for those who prefer their cod without any fuss. The batter achieves that perfect balance between crispy exterior and light, fluffy interior, whilst the chips demonstrate the kind of fluffy-centred perfection that comes from quality potatoes and experienced hands.
Beyond the traditional offerings, the menu ventures into more adventurous territory with softshell crab po’boys and Maine lobster rolls making summer appearances. It’s an unusual combination of chippy classics and American seafood, but it works brilliantly in this unique setting.
The basement location means you’ll want to dress warmly in winter, but the atmosphere more than compensates for any temperature concerns. There’s something wonderfully convivial about sharing this subterranean space with fellow fish and chips enthusiasts, creating connections with strangers over shared plates of perfectly cooked seafood.
This tiny pizzeria near the market proves that you don’t need fancy surroundings to produce world-class food. The wood-fired oven hits blistering temperatures, allowing the pizzaiolos to produce authentic Neapolitan pizza in just 90 seconds, with the kind of charred, pillowy bases that have made it the world’s favourite food.
The toppings stay resolutely traditional, with San Marzano tomatoes providing the sweet, acidic base for bufala mozzarella that melts into creamy pools across the surface. Fresh basil adds its distinctive perfume, whilst a drizzle of good olive oil brings everything together. At £8 for a margherita, it represents exceptional value for pizza of this quality.
The limited seating means takeaway is often the easier option, though watching the pizzaiolos work their magic over the flames adds considerably to the experience. Norfolk vegetables get their moment to shine on seasonal specials, with local producers providing ingredients that show off the county’s agricultural abundance. Whether that’s asparagus in spring or squash in autumn, the seasonal touches demonstrate a commitment to local sourcing that elevates already excellent pizza.
The Market Place location makes it perfect for a quick lunch whilst exploring Norwich’s shopping areas, though the quality means it’s worth seeking out even if you’re coming from further afield. The 90-second cooking time means you won’t be waiting long, even when they’re busy.
Website: Find them on social media for current hours
Ideal for pudding fanatics and anyone who believes life’s too short for boring desserts…
Norwich’s first dedicated dessert bar proves there’s life beyond sticky toffee pudding, with executive pastry chef Jaime Garbutt bringing serious fine dining skills to bear on the sweet side of the menu. Garbutt earned his stripes at Pétrus and under Marcus Wareing, and his technical ability shows in every beautifully plated creation.
The Jaffa cake reimagining provides a perfect example of the kitchen’s approach, taking a beloved British classic and elevating it to restaurant standard. Layers of orange sponge mingle with bitter chocolate ganache and candied peel, creating something that’s both nostalgic and sophisticated. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you reassess what British puddings can achieve when treated with real respect.
The banoffee receives similar fine dining treatment, with maple candied pecans adding textural interest and excellent toffee sauce providing the kind of deep, complex sweetness that only comes from careful caramelisation. Even the banana element shows thought and technique, whether that’s in the form of a perfectly ripe garnish or a more complex preparation that concentrates the flavours.
At £10 per plate, you’re getting restaurant-quality desserts without the commitment of a full three-course meal. Although, if you do want to commit to a full, very sweet meal, then there’s a dessert tasting menu for £30. Wine and champagne pairings are available for those who want to push the boat out, with selections that show real understanding of how sweet wines can complement rather than compete with dessert flavours.
The intimate 14-seat space creates a genuine sense of occasion, whilst the Thursday to Saturday opening hours add to the exclusive feel. Given that last part, booking is absolutely essential.
Much like just about every other industry and discipline in the world, artificial intelligence is beginning to impact interior design. Rather than completely transforming our living spaces, AI is emerging as one of several tools that designers and homeowners can utilise when creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.
Interior design has always evolved alongside technological and cultural developments—from the Victorian parlour to modernist open-plan living. AI represents another step in this evolution, though its ultimate impact remains to be determined. While AI offers new capabilities, the fundamental human desire for comfort, beauty, and meaning in our living spaces remains constant.
Personalisation Possibilities
AI offers unprecedented possibilities for personalisation in interior design. Modern algorithms can analyse environmental factors, behavioural patterns, and stated preferences to create truly bespoke living environments. These systems can suggest design elements based on how certain colours might influence mood, how furniture arrangement affects flow, or how material choices impact acoustics and comfort.
AI systems can process thousands of design variables simultaneously, offering solutions that human designers might not immediately consider. These systems excel at optimising spaces for specific needs—creating environments that support focus for home workers, relaxation for stress reduction, or accessibility for those with mobility challenges.
Beyond aesthetic preferences, AI can help create environments tailored to neurological differences. People with sensory processing disorders might benefit from spaces optimised to minimise overwhelming stimuli. Those with cognitive impairments might gain independence through environments designed to provide appropriate cues and support. However, these specialised applications require careful implementation and should complement, not replace, human care and attention.
Spatial Intelligence
One of AI’s most powerful applications in interior design lies in spatial optimisation. Traditional space planning relies heavily on designer experience and established principles, but AI systems can rapidly generate and evaluate hundreds of possible layouts against multiple criteria simultaneously.
These spatial intelligence algorithms can maximise natural light distribution, optimise traffic flow, improve acoustic performance, and enhance visual harmony—all while accommodating specific furniture requirements and personal preferences. For challenging spaces like awkward corners, narrow rooms, or multipurpose areas, AI can suggest innovative solutions that might not be immediately obvious.
For commercial spaces, these systems can analyse foot traffic patterns, dwell times, and conversion rates to suggest layouts that improve business performance. In residential settings, they can evaluate how space usage changes throughout the day, suggesting arrangements that adapt to different activities and needs. This approach represents a shift from static design to dynamic environments that respond to changing requirements.
Digital Memory & Identity Expression
Beyond pure functionality, an AI interior design generator can analyse personal data—from photographs to travel histories—to suggest design elements that reflect individual identities. This capability offers fascinating possibilities for creating environments with deep personal meaning.
AI systems might analyse family photographs to create colour palettes with emotional significance, suggest display arrangements for meaningful objects, or recommend furniture styles that complement existing heirlooms. Some advanced systems can even incorporate cultural preferences and heritage elements, helping create spaces that honour traditions while meeting contemporary needs.
However, these applications raise important questions about privacy, data security, and the nature of personal expression in algorithmically influenced spaces.
Material & Finish Recommendations
Traditional interior design involves painstaking selection of materials, textures, and finishes—often requiring designers to coordinate numerous samples and visualise how elements will work together. AI systems are transforming this process through sophisticated material recommendation engines.
These systems can suggest complementary materials based on established design principles, current trends, or specific aesthetic goals. They can predict how different materials will interact visually, helping avoid clashing textures or overwhelming combinations. For sustainable design, AI can evaluate environmental credentials of materials, suggesting alternatives with lower impact profiles.
Virtual reality integration allows clients to experience material combinations before committing to purchases, potentially reducing waste and improving satisfaction. Some systems can even account for practical considerations like maintenance requirements, durability expectations, and regional availability—creating designs that are not just beautiful but practical for real-world implementation.
While AI excels at suggesting optimal material combinations and layouts, the challenge of helping clients understand how furnishings actually function within their spaces has led to increased adoption of 3D product animation services. These animations bridge the gap between static renderings and physical experience, demonstrating how storage solutions open and close, how modular furniture reconfigures for different uses, or how complex assembly processes work in practice.
When combined with AI’s spatial optimisation capabilities, these dynamic visualisations help clients understand not just how a space will look, but how it will truly function day-to-day. This integration of AI planning with animated product demonstrations represents a particularly practical evolution in design communication—one that addresses the common disconnect between beautiful concepts and liveable realities
Biophilic Design Integration
One promising application of AI in interior design is in supporting biophilic design—approaches that connect occupants with nature. While this principle isn’t new, AI can help implement it more effectively through sophisticated analysis and monitoring.
AI systems can model how natural elements might be incorporated into spaces—suggesting optimal placement for indoor plants’ care requirements, recommending materials that echo natural patterns, or identifying opportunities to frame external views. These systems can also analyse circadian rhythms and suggest design elements that support natural sleep-wake cycles.
Advanced implementations might include automated systems that adapt environments throughout the day to mimic natural conditions—adjusting light spectrums, airflow patterns, and ambient sounds. These applications address real concerns about disconnection from natural environments in modern living, potentially supporting both physical and mental wellbeing.
Trend Analysis & Prediction
Interior design has always been influenced by trends, but AI is transforming how these trends emerge and evolve. Machine learning algorithms can analyse vast databases of design images, social media engagement, and consumer behaviour to identify emerging patterns before they become mainstream.
For designers, these tools offer valuable insights into which styles, materials, and approaches are likely to resonate with clients. They can help balance timeless elements with contemporary touches, creating spaces that feel current without quickly becoming dated. Some systems can even personalise trend recommendations based on regional preferences, client demographics, or specific project requirements.
Ethical Considerations
As with any technological development, the integration of AI into interior design raises important questions that deserve careful consideration.
Accessibility remains a central concern—will AI-enhanced design be available to most people, or limited to the wealthy? Privacy issues are significant, as systems that personalise environments often require extensive data collection about highly personal spaces and behaviours. Environmental impacts matter too, as smart systems typically require resource-intensive manufacturing and constant energy usage.
Perhaps most importantly, we must consider what might be lost if algorithmic approaches begin to replace human creativity and intuition in designing our living spaces. The most meaningful homes often reflect personal values, cultural traditions, and individual creativity in ways that standardised systems may struggle to replicate.
The Bottom Line
AI represents one of many tools available to interior designers and homeowners. Like any tool, its value depends on how thoughtfully it is applied. The most successful integration of AI into interior design will likely be selective and intentional, using technology where it offers genuine benefits while preserving the human elements that make spaces feel like home.
As we navigate this evolution, the most important considerations remain fundamentally human—how our living spaces support our wellbeing, reflect our identities, and enable the activities that matter to us. Technology can support these goals but cannot define them. The future of interior design will be shaped not by technology alone, but by how we choose to incorporate new capabilities into spaces that remain deeply human.
When it comes to holidaying closer to home – or, controversially ‘staycationing’ – more and more people are turning to camping, glamping, and motorhome pitches. Spending time in the Great British outdoors, amongst nature and away from it all, has never felt so appealing, especially when the alternative is waiting for hours in a chaotic airport for a cancelled flight.
Luckily, the UK plays host to scenic beaches, idyllic countryside views, and rugged mountain ranges that can be accessed without having to brave any wild scenes at the UK’s departure gates.
With stunning, natural beauty right on your doorstep, there really is no need to travel all those miles to experience something amazing. Here are 9 of the best camping destinations in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. Or, as some people like to call it, the UK.
The Devon Coast, England
The Devon Coast offers up some truly breathtaking, scenic sights, and is a fantastic place to spend your camping holiday. Home to two National Parks, five Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and countless mesmerising beaches, you are spoilt for choice in Devon.
However, one of the top choices for pitching a tent in a remote spot is the Jurassic Coast. This iconic part of England is a World Heritage Spot with hiking trails, stunning vistas, and unique geological features. You can even spend part of your camping holiday hunting for fossils in this area.
Some of the best campsites are in and around the picturesque seaside town of Sidmouth, and its 85 mile hike to Studland in neighbouring Dorset. Along this hike, which is part of the South West Coast Path, you’ll find some truly remote spots to pitch up.
The Llyn Peninsula, also known as ‘Snowdon’s Arm’, is found in North Wales. As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Llyn Peninsula is renowned for its intriguing wildlife, pretty beaches and thrilling water sports. With Snowdonia forming the background of your adventures, a holiday on the Llyn Peninsula is going to be one to remember.
For something a little more laid back, the Llyn Peninsula in Northern Wales has one of our favourite pubs in the world, Ty Coch Inn. But fear not, this one is for the kids too. The pub ‘garden’ is actually a small stretch of beach, letting you sup your pint while you watch the children build sandcastles – could there be anything better?
The Yorkshire Dales, England
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a haven for those seeking limestone landscapes, rolling meadows, and charming market towns. With over 700 square miles of stunning countryside, you’ll find everything from gentle riverside pitches to more adventurous hillside spots. The area is famous for its dramatic waterfalls, including Aysgarth Falls and the impressive Hardraw Force.
Malham Cove, a magnificent curved limestone cliff, provides a spectacular backdrop for camping adventures. The nearby village of Malham offers several excellent campsites, whilst the more intrepid might prefer the remote beauty of upper Wharfedale. Don’t miss the chance to explore the fascinating cave systems at White Scar Cave or take a scenic ride on the Settle-Carlisle Railway – arguably Britain’s most beautiful train journey.
The Cairngorms, Scotland
Scotland’s Cairngorms National Park is Britain’s largest national park and home to some of the UK’s most dramatic mountain scenery. This wilderness playground offers everything from family-friendly camping parks to wild camping opportunities amongst ancient Caledonian pine forests. The area boasts five of Scotland’s six highest mountains and is perfect for those seeking a true Highland experience.
Glenmore Forest Park, near Aviemore, provides excellent camping facilities with direct access to Loch Morlich’s sandy beach – yes, a proper beach in the Scottish Highlands! Wildlife enthusiasts might spot red deer, golden eagles, or even the elusive Scottish wildcat. For a unique experience, visit in autumn when the forests burst into spectacular colours and the red deer rutting season begins.
Isles Of Scilly, England
When it comes to the most remote camping spots in the UK, the Isles of Scilly is a fair contender. The Scilly archipelago, just off the Cornish coast, is made up of over 140 islets and islands, with just five of those inhabited.
Four of these tiny islands offer campsites with a difference. Whether you choose to enjoy the popular St Mary’s island, the boating opportunities of Bryher, the dog-friendly campsite at St Martin’s, or the panoramic views of St Agnes, there is something for everyone on the Isles of Scilly.
The Castle Ward estate has gained international recognition in recent years due to part of the estate being used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. GoT fans can take a tour of these sites while nature lovers can enjoy the historic woods, the sweeping grounds, and majestic views over Strangford Lough.
It should be noted that the main campsite here, Castle Ward Caravan Park, has limited space for pitching tents, but this exclusivity makes it a peaceful, somewhat remote space to bed down for a night in blissful serenity.
Endless rolling hills, the peaceful sounds of surrounding nature and a wealth of natural beauty – what’s not to love? If you’re looking for the perfect countryside escape, then the Lake District could be just the place for you in 2022.
With spectacular scenery and places to explore, along with quaint towns and villages to amble through, it offers a slower pace of life to the cut’n thrust of urban Britain.
If you’re a lover of wildlife, The Lake District contains some of the UK’s best wild camping spots (providing you’ve first received permission from the landowner, that is). It should also be noted that land belonging to the Lake District National Park Authority is not suitable for wild camping. With those disclaimers dispensed with, you can find an insightful list of some of the best spots for wild camping in the Lake District here.
Alternatively, for something equally spontaneous but a little more legal certainty, why not try Baysbrown Farm?Situated in the beautiful Great Langdale Valley, what sets this campsite apart is the spontaneity it encourages; you don’t book a pitch here, you just arrive and find a space. Acres of flat ground belong to the farm, which sits at the base of the Lake District’s mountain range; the most picturesque of backdrops for happy campers.
For those preferring the comfort of a motorhome, there are numerous well-equipped sites throughout the region – just ensure your motorhome insurance covers you for navigating those famously narrow Lakeland lanes!
The Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales
Pembrokeshire’s rugged coastline offers some of Wales’ most spectacular camping spots, with the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path providing endless opportunities for coastal adventures. From secluded coves to expansive sandy beaches, this area combines natural beauty with fascinating wildlife – keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and puffins on Skomer Island.
The area around St Davids, Britain’s smallest city, offers numerous camping options with easy access to stunning beaches like Whitesands Bay. For something truly special, try camping near the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy or explore the colourful harbour village of Tenby. The region’s dark skies also make it perfect for stargazing, with several campsites offering astronomy evenings.
Gleann Na Muice, Scotland
If you are all about rugged mountains and dramatic landscapes, Scotland’s Gleann na Muice could be the ideal choice for you. Based within the Fisherfield Five, five of the most remote Munros in the Scottish Highlands, this spot is fantastic for wild camping. This one isn’t for the faint-hearted, but campers with a penchant for the wild will truly love an outward bounds excursion in this part of the UK.
Gateway to the sun-soaked beaches of southern Portugal, Faro often gets overlooked by holidaymakers racing towards the Algarve’s more famous resort towns. Yet those who pause to explore this charming capital discover a city where Moorish walls embrace cobbled streets, where storks nest atop baroque churches, and where the rhythms of authentic Portuguese life continue undisturbed by mass tourism.
Behind its medieval ramparts, the Cidade Velha (Old Town) reveals a treasure trove of azulejo-clad buildings, intimate squares, and hidden courtyards where orange trees perfume the air and elderly locals debate the day’s news over tiny cups of bica.
Unlike its flashier coastal neighbours, Faro maintains a working-city authenticity that’s increasingly rare along the Algarve. Here, university students mingle with fishermen in waterfront cafés, traditional tascas serve petiscos to locals rather than tourists, and the morning market buzzes with genuine commerce rather than souvenir-hunting.
The city’s unique position between the Ria Formosa lagoon and the Atlantic creates a natural paradise on its doorstep – a protected wetland where flamingos wade through shallow waters and pristine barrier islands offer some of Portugal’s most unspoilt beaches. While you could easily spend a week exploring every winding alley and sampling each neighbourhood’s specialities, 48 hours provides enough time to experience Faro’s dual personality: historic city and gateway to one of the world’s most beautiful coastlines.
Day 1: Medieval Charm & Maritime Heritage
Morning: Through The Arco da Vila
Begin your Faro adventure at Pastelaria Coelho on Rua de Santo António, where the aroma of freshly baked pastries has been drawing locals since dawn for over four decades. Their bolas de Berlim (Portuguese doughnuts filled with egg custard) and galão (milky coffee served in a tall glass) provide the perfect fuel for exploration. The unpretentious interior, with its worn marble counter and constant stream of regulars, offers an authentic glimpse of Faro’s morning rhythms as workers grab their breakfast before heading to shops and offices.
A five-minute stroll brings you to the Arco da Vila, the neoclassical gateway that marks the entrance to Faro’s walled old town. Time your arrival for 9:30am to beat both the tour groups and the Algarve heat. The arch itself, built atop Moorish foundations, houses a colony of white storks whose distinctive clattering provides the soundtrack to old Faro. Look up to spot their enormous nests balanced precariously on the stonework.
Within the old town walls, the Sé Cathedral dominates the Largo da Sé. This architectural hodgepodge – Gothic bones dressed in Renaissance finery with baroque flourishes – tells the story of Faro’s turbulent past. The modest entrance fee includes access to the bell tower; climb the narrow spiral staircase for panoramic views across the terracotta rooftops to the Ria Formosa beyond. The Cathedral’s bone chapel, though smaller than Évora’s famous example, offers a sobering reminder of mortality crafted from the remains of 1,200 Carmelite monks.
Descend back through the old town and exit via the medieval walls for the 10-minute walk to the Mercado Municipal. This art deco market building comes alive between 11am and 1pm, when locals haggle over the morning’s catch. The fish section dazzles with displays of dourada (sea bream), robalo (sea bass), and the region’s famous percebes (gooseneck barnacles). The upper floor houses produce stalls where vendors will enthusiastically offer samples of whatever’s in season – perhaps sweet Algarve oranges or aromatic medronho berries.
For lunch, navigate the narrow streets behind the market to find Tasca do Ricky, a tiny family-run tasca that’s easy to miss but impossible to forget. Here, Ricky himself mans the grill, turning out perfectly charred chocos grelhados (grilled cuttlefish) and bifanas (pork sandwiches) that have achieved legendary status among local workers. The entire menu is scrawled on a chalkboard, prices haven’t changed in years, and there’s not a tourist menu in sight.
After lunch, take advantage of Faro’s unique geography with a trip to Ilha Deserta, part of the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Ferries depart hourly from the dock below the old town (€10 return), and the 30-minute journey through the lagoon’s maze of channels offers sightings of everything from spoonbills to seahorses. The island – also known as Ilha da Barreta – lives up to its deserted name, especially if you walk beyond the small beach bar near the jetty.
This barrier island stretches for 11 kilometres of virtually untouched sand, backed by dunes and salt marsh. Time your visit to include a late afternoon swim in the Atlantic, where the water temperature hovers around a pleasant 20°C even in spring and autumn.
The western tip of the island, reached by a 45-minute walk along the beach, offers the best sunset views – though check ferry times to ensure you don’t miss the last boat back.
Alternatively, if you’re in the need for afternoon refreshment, head to Restaurante Estaminé – a stunning wooden restaurant serving local cuisine and with seafood straight from the estuary.
Evening: Sunset & Seafood
Back on the mainland, climb to the Miradouro de Santo António for sunset views across the old town and lagoon. This small viewpoint beside the Santo António Church provides the perfect perch to watch the sky turn shades of pink and orange reflected in the still waters of the Ria Formosa.
For dinner, make your way to Tertúlia Algarvia, housed in a converted 17th-century stable just steps from the cathedral. This atmospheric restaurant specialises in cataplanas (traditional copper-pot stews) and fresh seafood prepared with a contemporary twist. Their caldeirada de peixe (fish stew) layers the day’s catch with potatoes, tomatoes, and peppers in a fragrant saffron broth. The stone walls and vaulted ceilings create an intimate atmosphere, while the small courtyard offers al fresco dining on warm evenings. Book ahead, especially at weekends when locals fill the tables for celebratory dinners.
End your evening at Columbus Bar, hidden down a side street in the old town. This intimate space, carved into the ancient city walls, serves creative cocktails using local ingredients like fig liqueur and Algarve honey. Their signature ‘Ria Formosa’ combines gin with elderflower and fresh herbs picked from the owner’s garden.
Start day two at Pastelaria Gardy on Rua de Santo António, where locals have been starting their mornings since 1964. Their speciality, folhados de Faro (puff pastries filled with egg custard and almonds), provide the perfect sugar rush before cultural exploration. The retro interior, complete with formica tables and net curtains, hasn’t changed in decades.
A five-minute walk brings you to the Igreja do Carmo, Faro’s most impressive baroque church. While the gilded interior dazzles with its excess of cherubs and carved altarpieces, the real draw is the Capela dos Ossos (Bone Chapel) accessed through the sacristy. Built in 1816, this macabre masterpiece uses the bones of over 1,200 monks to create intricate patterns across walls and ceiling, all overseen by the sobering inscription: “Stop here and consider, that you will reach this state too.”
Continue your morning with a visit to the Museu Municipal de Faro, housed in a 16th-century convent. The museum’s collection spans from Roman mosaics to contemporary art, but the highlight is the spectacular 3rd-century Roman mosaic of Ocean, discovered in the ruins of Milreu. The peaceful Renaissance cloister, with its orange trees and azulejo panels, offers a tranquil escape from the growing heat.
No visit to Faro is complete without experiencing Praia de Faro, the city’s own beach. Take bus 14 or 16 from the centre (20-minute journey) to reach this long stretch of sand that locals simply call ‘the island’. The beach extends for miles in both directions, backed by low dunes and beach bars that range from ramshackle to sophisticated.
For lunch with your toes in the sand, Wax Restobar offers a more refined take on beach dining without the premium prices of the Algarve’s posher resorts. Their grilled fish of the day, served simply with roasted vegetables and sea salt, showcases the quality of local seafood. The restaurant’s deck provides shade during the midday sun, and their selection of Portuguese wines includes excellent Alentejo whites perfect for a lazy beach afternoon.
Afternoon: Lagoon Life
Rather than rushing back to the city, spend your afternoon exploring more of the. The Centro de Educação Ambiental de Marim, located just east of Faro, offers walking trails through diverse habitats including salt pans, pine woods, and tidal mudflats. The 3km circular trail takes about 90 minutes at a leisurely pace, with bird hides positioned at strategic points for wildlife watching.
Time your visit for the afternoon when the harsh midday light softens and wildlife becomes more active. The salt pans attract flamingos year-round, while spring and autumn bring thousands of migrating birds. The restored tide mill and traditional salt workers’ houses provide insight into how locals have worked these waters for centuries.
Evening: Farewell Feast
For your final evening, Vila Adentro in the old town offers innovative takes on traditional Algarvian cuisine. Chef Pedro Vieira sources ingredients from small local producers, transforming humble dishes into something special. The cataplana de tamboril e gambas (monkfish and prawn stew) arrives in the traditional copper pot, but elevated with saffron and fresh herbs. The tasting menu, if you’re feeling indulgent, provides a journey through the region’s flavours paired with carefully chosen Portuguese wines.
Cap off your 48 hours at O Castelo, a rooftop bar perched atop the old town walls. As you sip a glass of white port or medronho (strawberry tree firewater), the illuminated cathedral and twinkling lights of the marina create a magical backdrop for your final night in Faro.
Choosing your base in Faro requires balancing historic charm with practical considerations. The compact size means nowhere is too far from the action, but each area offers a distinct experience.
The Cidade Velha (Old Town) provides maximum atmosphere in minimum space. Several boutique properties occupy lovingly restored 19th-century townhouses within the medieval walls. Look for intimate accommodations with four to six rooms that offer experiences where breakfast is served in courtyards fragrant with jasmine. Many feature rooftop terraces providing 360-degree views over terracotta tiles to the lagoon beyond. Request rooms with original azulejo tiles and wooden shutters opening onto the cathedral square for the most authentic experience.
For those seeking more space and modern amenities, the area around the marina offers excellent options. Several contemporary hotels surprise with their boutique sensibilities and rooftop pools overlooking the yacht harbour. Properties in this area are ideally positioned for early morning market visits or late-night waterfront strolls. Many feature popular rooftop terraces that have become local institutions, attracting stylish crowds of visitors and Farenses alike.
The neighbourhood around Rua de São Luis presents the best value options whilst maintaining easy access to both old town and waterfront. Here you’ll find a mix of guesthouses and small hotels occupying renovated merchant houses. Some modern hostels offer private rooms with boutique hotel standards at budget prices. The communal kitchen and lounge areas attract an interesting mix of travellers, creating opportunities to explore the Algarve with rental apartments as a base for longer stays – many guests end up extending their visit to explore the region more thoroughly.
For something different, consider the converted windmill apartments on the outskirts of the old town. These unique circular spaces, once used for grinding grain, now offer romantic retreats with modern comforts. Several properties provide such conversions, complete with mezzanine bedrooms and terraces offering panoramic views across the city to the ocean.
Budget-conscious travellers should look to the streets between the train station and the old town, where family-run pensões offer simple, clean rooms at reasonable prices. Many of these traditional guesthouses have been welcoming guests since the 1960s, and while the décor might be frozen in time, the welcome is warm and the location unbeatable.
The Bottom Line
Forty-eight hours in Faro reveals a city too often dismissed as merely the Algarve’s transport hub. From its medieval heart to its natural lagoon paradise, Faro offers an authentic slice of Portuguese life enhanced by coastal beauty and genuine hospitality. While the beach resorts to east and west provide their own pleasures, Faro’s combination of culture, nature, top Algarve accommodation and cuisine creates memories that linger long after the airport shuttle has whisked you away.
Those inspired to explore further should consider venturing to the mountain town of Monchique, an hour’s drive north, where thermal springs and forest walks provide a complete contrast to the coastal experience. Or perhaps explore more of the Ria Formosa’s islands – Culatra and Armona offer their own distinct charms and even quieter beaches.
For the ultimate Algarve experience, check out our guide to Portugal’s best coastal walks next. The Via Algarviana, starting just outside Faro, offers spectacular hiking through an Algarve most visitors never discover.
Whilst certainly not without their charms, you only have to cast your eyes across the sand to acknowledge that most travellers to Vietnam end up on the same crowded beaches: Nha Trang with its high-rise hotels, or Phu Quoc with its ever-expanding resort developments. But Vietnam’s 3,000-kilometre coastline holds a fair few secrets for those willing to cast the net a little wider.
These five beaches offer something increasingly rare: genuine discovery. Here you’ll find fishing villages where tourism hasn’t yet changed the rhythm of daily life, coral reefs that marine biologists use as healthy ecosystem benchmarks, and stretches of sand where your biggest decision is choosing between a hammock or a deck chair under the trees.
The window for experiencing these coastal treasures in their unspoiled state is rapidly closing. Already, the distant rumble of construction equipment signals change, and locals speak of international hotel chains scouting locations. But for now, these beaches remain gloriously uncommercialised.
Bai Xep Beach, Quy Nhon: The Backpacker Haven That Kept Its Soul
The Discovery
Sitting pretty 13 kilometres south of Quy Nhon city lies Bai Xep Beach, a pristine stretch of golden sand embraced by a traditional fishing village of just 100 or so souls. Once known only to local fishermen, this secluded car-free village offers a rare chance to experience a Vietnamese beach full of industry but without the crowds.
What Makes It Special
The beach is an incredible golden bay bordered by dramatic jagged rocks at either end, with clear blue water and traditional Vietnamese basket boats scattered across the crescent-shaped bay. The atmosphere blends beautiful beaches with an authentic fishing village vibe.
The Experience
Mornings bring fishermen preparing their gear for the day’s catch, whilst evenings offer beach barbecues. You can rent bamboo fishing rods to try your hand at local-style fishing, or take short hikes through the surrounding hills for spectacular coastal views. A 20-minute boat trip (80,000 VND return) takes you to Hon Ngang Island, where natural swimming pools form between rocks and a small beach awaits virtually undiscovered – perfect for snorkelling among coral and tropical fish.
The village boasts several small seafood restaurants run by local families, serving incredibly fresh, whole grilled fish, shellfish, and specialities like banh beo and seafood-laden fried rice. In the evening, tables and chairs appear on the beach for sunset dining, where the area’s residents gather for a couple of cold ones after their working day.
Getting There
Follow National Highway 1D south from Quy Nhon for 17 kilometres, then look for the ‘Bai Xep’ sign. The journey itself is scenic, with mountains and sea flanking both sides of the road. No ATMs exist in Bai Xep, so bring sufficient cash. Staff can arrange motorbike lifts to town if needed.
Best Time to Visit: May to August for optimal weather and calm seas.
Vinh Hy Bay, Ninh Thuan: The Untouched Marine Sanctuary
The Discovery
Located 42 kilometres northeast of Phan Rang-Thap Cham, Vinh Hy Bay is one of Vietnam’s four most beautiful bays, recognised as a national scenic site. This stunning bay features sandy beaches meeting towering mountains, with streams weaving through forests and vibrant coral reefs.
What Makes It Special
The bay’s beauty lies in its blend of sea and Nui Chua National Park – Vietnam’s only dry forest ecosystem and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Almost entirely surrounded by mountains, it creates a protected natural amphitheatre.
The Experience
Take glass-bottom boat tours (from 80,000 VND) to explore Ca Ong Cape, Yen Cave, and Hon Rua Islet, where you can admire coral reefs, sea urchins, and starfish. Visit secluded Ba Dien Beach with white sand and clear water, or discover Hang Rai reef – ancient coral formations creating breathtaking rock sculptures.
Visit Vinh Hy fishing village at dawn when boats return with their catch, or explore the area’s unusual grape farms where you can taste local grape liquor underneath the vines.
Getting There
Fly to Cam Ranh Airport (2 hours by road), or drive from Ho Chi Minh City following National Highway 1A for 50 kilometres, then take Provincial Road 702 at Vinh Hy Pass.
Best Time to Visit: May to August for sunshine and calm, clear waters.
Hon Gom Sandbar, Khanh Hoa: Nature’s Geographical Masterpiece
The Discovery
Hon Gom Sandbar is one of Vietnam’s most unique beach destinations – a long, narrow stretch of land that separates the deep blue sea from a calm lagoon, creating a stunning contrast between two bodies of water.
What Makes It Special
Along one side lie rocks resembling animals – a flamingo, a giant crocodile lurking underwater. The east side features a windswept, almost uninhabited beach. The peninsula is known locally as the ‘Garden of Rocks’ where unusual formations have spawned legends about rejuvenating energy.
The Experience
At Son Dung hamlet, Vuon Xoai restaurant occupies a sandy patch shaded by a 70-year-old mango tree, with steps leading into a gorgeous bay surrounded by smooth boulders and fishing boats. In early evening, the sun sets in the middle of the bay, sculpting mountain contours in purple light.
Getting There
The sandbar is accessible via a steep concrete path to Son Dung hamlet.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but avoid monsoon months (September-November).
Dam Trau Beach, Con Dao: The World-Ranked Paradise
The beach offers shallow, gentle waters during low tide, tree swings for photos, and tiny sand crabs that create intricate patterns across the beach. Its proximity to Con Son airport adds excitement as propeller planes land overhead just three or four times daily, earning it the nickname “Airport Beach”.
The Experience
Choose between lying on sand, wooden sun loungers, or hammocks in the shade. Two beach cafés provide food and drinks all day, whilst fresh guava juice from the snack shed offers perfect tropical refreshment. Behind cliffs on the left lies a hidden lagoon that becomes a natural jacuzzi during rainy season.
Con Dao National Park hosts Vietnam’s largest turtle community, particularly hawksbill sea turtles, and is the only area where dugongs live.
Getting There
Fly directly to Con Son Airport from Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho (1 hour flight). The beach is 14 kilometres from Con Dao town centre.
Best Time to Visit: March to September for warm weather ideal for swimming.
Bai Mon Beach, Phu Yen: Vietnam’s Sunrise Gateway
The Discovery
Phu Yen Province’s Bai Mon Beach is a secluded paradise with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. Located near Mui Dien Cape – Vietnam’s easternmost point – this hidden gem offers the extraordinary experience of witnessing the country’s very first sunrise each day.
What Makes It Special
This superb parcel of sand is wedged between two boulder-strewn hills, creating a secret beach that feels tucked away from the world. The beach entrance (20,000 VND) includes access to Mui Dien Lighthouse, where stupendous views stretch out to sea and down over the beach.
The Experience
Arrive at dawn to climb the lighthouse stairs and watch the sunrise over the ocean from Vietnam’s easternmost point. A separate staircase leads down to the beach for swimming in clear, calm waters. The beach remains uncrowded, particularly on weekdays.
Nearby floating restaurants in Vung Ro Bay serve fresh seafood in wooden structures on calm waters. Quán Chú Mười near the entrance can arrange overnight camping on the sand for the ultimate sunrise experience.
Getting There
The beach lies 35 kilometres southeast of Tuy Hoa City in Phu Yen Province, accessed via one of Highway QL1A’s most scenic sections.
Best Time to Visit: February to May for ideal weather and clearest sunrise views.
Planning Your Trip
Transportation Rent a motorbike for flexibility exploring coastal roads, as many hidden beaches require navigating village paths that taxis cannot access. Book domestic flights to reach remote islands like Con Dao efficiently. Consider hiring local fishermen for authentic and affordable boat trips between islands.
What to Pack Reef-safe sunscreen, waterproof camera, sufficient cash (many beaches lack ATMs), basic snorkelling gear, light rain jacket, and insect repellent for jungle-backed beaches.
Sustainable Travel These beaches remain pristine because visitor numbers stay low. Responsible Vietnam travel prioritises local guesthouses over international chains, eating at village restaurants, leaving no trace, avoiding single-use plastics, and visiting during weekdays when possible to reduce pressure on local infrastructure.
The Bottom Line
Vietnam’s quieter beaches offer some of the most rewarding coastal experiences in Southeast Asia. Whether you’re seeking peaceful retreats, authentic cultural encounters, or pristine natural environments, these five destinations deliver what mainstream beach resorts often promise but rarely provide: genuine connection with place and people.
The beauty of these destinations lies not just in their pristine sands and clear waters, but in their ability to offer experiences that feel both timeless and immediate. Here, Vietnam’s coastal spirit remains wonderfully intact.
Picture this: a customer has spent time browsing your online shop, carefully selecting items and adding them to their basket. They’re one click away from completing their purchase when suddenly… they vanish. No sale, no explanation – just another abandoned cart joining the digital graveyard of almost-purchases. If you’re running an online business, this scenario is frustratingly familiar.
Cart abandonment is the bane of ecommerce retailers everywhere. With average abandonment rates hovering around 70%, it’s a problem that costs businesses billions in lost revenue annually. But here’s the good news: many of these lost sales are recoverable with the right strategies.
Understanding Why Shoppers Abandon Their Carts
Nearly three quarters of online shopping carts are abandoned before purchase. In the UK specifically, this problem cost retailers £38 billion in lost sales in 2024 alone, according to Retail Economics and GFS via the Retail Gazette.
Whilst some abandonment is natural – window shoppers and comparison shoppers will always exist – a significant portion stems from preventable friction points in the purchasing journey. By identifying and addressing these issues, retailers can reclaim a substantial slice of this lost revenue.
Before diving into solutions, it’s crucial to understand why customers leave without buying. The most common culprits include:
Unexpected costs at checkout – Nothing sends shoppers running faster than surprise shipping fees, taxes, or handling charges appearing at the last minute. Transparency is key; if your free shipping threshold is £50, make that crystal clear from the start.
Complicated checkout process – Every additional step, form field, or page load increases the likelihood of abandonment. If customers need a PhD to navigate your checkout, you’ve already lost them.
Mandatory account creation – Forcing shoppers to create an account before purchasing is like asking someone to fill out a mortgage application before buying a coffee. Offer guest checkout options to reduce friction.
Security concerns – In an age of data breaches, customers are rightfully cautious about sharing payment information. Without visible security badges and HTTPS protocols, shoppers may think twice about entering their card details.
Poor mobile experience – With over half of online shopping happening on mobile devices, a clunky mobile checkout is commercial suicide. If customers are pinching, zooming, and squinting, they’re not buying.
Now that we’ve identified the problems, let’s explore practical solutions to transform those abandoned carts into completed sales.
The beauty of tackling cart abandonment is that even small improvements can yield impressive results. To reduce cart abandonment rates by even 1% can translate to thousands in additional revenue for mid-sized retailers. The following strategies aren’t just theoretical – they’re proven tactics used by successful online retailers from ASOS to Zara. The key is selecting the right combination for your specific audience and implementing them thoughtfully.
Simplify Your Checkout Process
Streamline your checkout to the bare essentials. Implement a single-page checkout where possible, or clearly indicate progress with a visual checkout steps indicator. Auto-fill forms using saved information, and only ask for essential details. Remember: every unnecessary field is a potential exit point.
Be Transparent About Costs
Display all costs upfront, including shipping, taxes, and any additional fees. Consider offering a shipping calculator on product pages so customers can estimate total costs before reaching checkout. Better yet, build shipping costs into your product prices and offer ‘free’ shipping – psychology matters in ecommerce.
Offer Multiple Payment Options
Different customers prefer different payment methods. Beyond traditional credit and debit cards, consider integrating digital payment apps like PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and buy-now-pay-later services like Klarna or Clearpay. The more options you provide, the more likely customers will find their preferred method.
Optimise for Mobile
Ensure your mobile checkout is as smooth as silk. Use large, thumb-friendly buttons, implement autofill for addresses, and ensure forms are easy to complete on smaller screens. Test your checkout process regularly on various devices – what works on your iPhone might be a nightmare on Android.
Build Trust Throughout the Journey
Display security badges prominently, use HTTPS across your entire site, and include customer reviews and testimonials near checkout buttons. Consider adding a money-back guarantee or highlighting your returns policy. Trust signals reassure nervous shoppers that their purchase is safe.
Implement Strategic Remarketing
Not all abandoned carts are lost causes. Set up automated email campaigns to remind customers about their abandoned items. Send the first email within 2-3 hours of abandonment, perhaps with a gentle reminder. Follow up after 24 hours, possibly with a small discount or free shipping offer. A final email after 48-72 hours can capture stragglers.
Deploy Intelligent Offers and Personalised Promotions
Generic discounts are so last season. Today’s shoppers expect personalised experiences that reflect their browsing behaviour and purchase history. Implement smart algorithms that analyse customer data to deliver targeted offers at the right moment.
For instance, a first-time visitor might receive a welcome discount, whilst a returning customer who’s abandoned luxury items might be offered exclusive VIP perks or payment plan options. Use behavioural triggers – if someone’s been hovering on a product page for several minutes, a subtle pop-up with a time-limited discount could provide the nudge they need.
The key is relevance and timing. A personalised 10% discount for items in their abandoned cart often outperforms a generic 20% site-wide sale. Just ensure your personalisation feels helpful rather than creepy – nobody likes feeling stalked by overzealous algorithms.
Create Urgency (Honestly)
Limited stock notifications, time-sensitive discounts, or highlighting when items are selling quickly can motivate fence-sitters. However, use these tactics honestly – fake urgency erodes trust and can backfire spectacularly.
Provide Excellent Customer Support
Make it easy for customers to get help when they need it. Live chat support during checkout can address concerns in real-time, preventing abandonment. Even a clearly visible customer service phone number can make the difference between a sale and an abandoned cart.
The Bottom Line
Reducing cart abandonment isn’t about implementing every possible strategy at once. Start by analysing your own data to identify where customers are dropping off, then systematically address those pain points. Small improvements can yield significant results – even reducing abandonment by 10% can dramatically impact your bottom line.
Remember, some cart abandonment is inevitable. Customers comparison shop, save items for later, or simply change their minds. Your goal isn’t perfection but continuous improvement. By focusing on user experience, building trust, and removing friction from the buying process, you’ll convert more browsers into buyers and transform those abandoned carts into completed sales.
The key is to think like your customers. Make their journey from product discovery to purchase as smooth, transparent, and reassuring as possible. Do that consistently, and you’ll see those abandonment rates drop whilst your revenue rises.
In recent years, rum has shed its unfair reputation as merely a mixer for tropical cocktails and emerged as a sophisticated spirit worthy of the finest dining tables and burgeoning investment portfolios. From light and delicate white rums to rich, complex aged varieties, the world of rum offers extraordinary versatility when it comes to food pairing. Here’s your guide to the best food pairings for treasured Caribbean spirit.
Understanding Rum’s Diverse Character
Before getting into the pairings themselves, it’s essential to understand that rum isn’t a monolithic spirit. The production methods, ageing processes, and regional traditions create distinct categories, each with unique flavour profiles that complement different dishes. White rums offer clean, crisp notes perfect for lighter fare, whilst aged rums develop caramel, vanilla, and spice characteristics that stand up to heartier dishes.
White Rum With Ceviche & Citrus-Cured Seafood
The marriage of white rum and ceviche represents one of the Caribbean’s most inspired culinary partnerships. The rum’s subtle sweetness and clean finish enhance the lime-cured fish without masking its delicate texture. When preparing ceviche, consider using corvina, prawns or sea bass marinated in fresh lime juice, diced red onion, and coriander. Serve the rum neat at around 10°C alongside, or create a simple rum and soda with a lime wheel to echo the dish’s citrus notes.
For an elevated experience, try quality white rums with tuna ceviche that includes coconut milk in the marinade. The new white rum by Vrum has been making waves with its exceptionally clean profile and hints of fresh sugar cane, making it particularly suited to delicate seafood preparations.
Other excellent options include Plantation 3 Stars or Havana Club 3 Años. The rum’s tropical undertones harmonise with the coconut whilst its crisp finish cleanses the palate between bites. Consider adding finely diced mango or pineapple to your ceviche when pairing with particularly fruity white rums from Martinique or Guadeloupe.
Raw oysters also find an unexpected partner in white rum. Replace the traditional mignonette with a rum-spiked version: mix white rum with rice wine vinegar, minced shallots, and cracked black pepper. The rum’s sweetness balances the oyster’s briny intensity whilst adding complexity to each slurp.
Golden Rum With Honey-Glazed Duck & Roasted Stone Fruits
Golden rum’s honeyed notes and vanilla undertones create spectacular pairings with duck, particularly when the bird is prepared with fruit-forward glazes. A winning combination involves whole duck scored and roasted until the skin crisps, then finished with a glaze of orange marmalade. Add golden rum to this glaze and you create a flavour bridge to the spirit in your glass.
Mount Gay Eclipse or Appleton Estate Signature work brilliantly here, their balanced profiles complementing without overwhelming the duck’s rich gaminess. Serve the rum with a single large ice cube to slightly dilute and open up its caramel notes. Accompany the dish with roasted peaches or apricots that have been deglazed with a splash of the same rum you’re drinking.
Golden rum also excels with Caribbean pork dishes, particularly Andi Oliver’s Antiguan vinidaloush. This spectacular roast incorporates golden rum directly into the marinade alongside sherry vinegar, allspice, and a vibrant green seasoning made from thyme, parsley, coriander, scotch bonnets, and garlic. The overnight marinade, rich with a healthy glug of golden rum, creates layers of flavour that echo beautifully when the same rum is served alongside.
The three-hour slow roast at a low temperature allows the rum’s sweetness to caramelise with the pork belly’s rendered fat, whilst the finishing sauce – a reduction of golden rum, honey, and butter – creates an additional flavour bridge.
Golden Rum With Camembert & Blue Cheese
One of the most surprising discoveries in rum pairing involves golden rum’s affinity with creamy, pungent cheeses. The rum’s vanilla and caramel notes, developed through oak ageing, create an unexpected harmony with Camembert’s earthy, mushroom flavours. Serve a room-temperature wedge of ripe Camembert alongside Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva or Zacapa 23, sipping the rum neat to appreciate how its sweetness tempers the cheese’s funky intensity.
For blue cheese enthusiasts, try pairing Roquefort or a mild Stilton with golden rum. The spirit’s sweetness acts as a counterpoint to the cheese’s sharp, salty bite, whilst its oak-derived complexity matches the cheese’s bold character. Enhance the pairing by drizzling the cheese with rum-infused honey (simply warm honey with a splash of rum, then cool). Serve with walnut bread and fresh pear slices for textural contrast.
The key to rum and cheese pairing lies in temperature and presentation. Allow both rum and cheese to reach optimal serving temperatures – cheese at room temperature, rum either neat or with a single ice cube. Create a cheeseboard featuring various aged rums alongside corresponding cheeses: younger golden rums with fresh chèvre, aged amber rums with mature Comté, and sweet spiced rums with aged Gouda studded with crystalline patches.
Dark Rum With Sticky Toffee Pudding & Burnt Butter Sauces
The complex interplay between dark rum and sticky toffee pudding elevates both elements beyond their already lofty individual merits. Choose a rum with pronounced molasses and brown sugar notes – Gosling’s Black Seal or El Dorado 12 Year work wonderfully. The pudding’s dates and treacle mirror the rum’s dark sweetness, whilst the spirit’s oak-aged complexity prevents the pairing from becoming cloying.
Enhance the experience by incorporating rum directly into the toffee sauce. As you prepare the sauce with butter, double cream, and muscovado sugar, add a generous splash of dark rum at the end, allowing the alcohol to cook off slightly whilst retaining the rum’s essence. Serve the pudding warm with the rum at room temperature in a snifter to concentrate its aromas.
Dark rum also creates magic with grilled or roasted meats featuring caramelised exteriors. Consider beef short ribs braised in a mixture of dark rum, beef stock, and aromatics until fork-tender. The long cooking process allows the rum to meld with the meat’s natural umami, creating depth that’s echoed when you sip the same rum alongside. The key is achieving proper caramelisation – those dark, sticky bits that form during slow cooking contain flavour compounds that harmonise perfectly with aged rum’s complexity.
Spiced Rum With Jerk Chicken & Plantain
The aromatic complexity of spiced rum makes it the natural choice for Jamaica’s wonderfully fiery, complex jerk chicken. The rum’s cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice notes echo the jerk seasoning’s warm spices whilst its sweetness provides respite from the scotch bonnet heat. Chairman’s Reserve Spiced or Bayou Spiced Rum offer the right balance of sweetness and spice intensity.
When preparing jerk chicken, create a wet marinade using spiced rum as the liquid base, combining it with traditional jerk spices, spring onions, and fresh thyme. Marinate for at least 24 hours, allowing the rum to penetrate the meat. Grill over pimento wood if available, or add soaked allspice berries to your charcoal for authentic flavour. Serve with fried plantains that have been flambéed with spiced rum for a cohesive flavour profile.
Spiced rum also pairs brilliantly with Indian cuisine, particularly creamy curries like korma or pasanda. The rum’s sweet spices complement rather than compete with the dish’s complex spice blend. Serve the rum over ice with a splash of mango lassi for a fusion cocktail that bridges Caribbean and subcontinental flavours.
Overproof Rum With Pepper Pot & Scotch Bonnet-Laced Dishes
Overproof rum’s intensity demands equally bold food pairings. Guyana’s pepper pot, a meat stew made with cassareep (cassava-based sauce) and fierce amounts of black pepper, stands up to rums like Wray & Nephew Overproof or Smith & Cross. The dish’s complex, slightly bitter cassareep and tongue-numbing pepper create a flavour intensity that matches the rum’s high proof.
Serve overproof rum heavily diluted with coconut water or ginger beer when pairing with extremely spicy foods. The dilution tames the alcohol burn whilst maintaining the rum’s flavour impact. For the brave, sip the rum neat between bites of scotch bonnet-laced dishes – the alcohol’s heat amplifies the pepper’s burn before the rum’s sweetness provides relief.
Consider also pairing overproof rum with intensely flavoured desserts like Christmas pudding or Jamaican black cake. These dense, fruit-laden cakes often contain rum in their preparation and benefit from the spirit’s strength when served alongside. The high alcohol content cuts through the desserts’ richness whilst their concentrated fruit flavours stand up to the rum’s intensity.
Rhum Agricole With Fresh Cheese & Tropical Fruit Salads
Rhum agricole, distilled from fresh sugar cane juice rather than molasses, offers grassy, vegetal notes that create unique pairing opportunities. These Martinique and Guadeloupe rums excel with fresh cheeses like chèvre or ricotta, particularly when the cheese is drizzled with honey and served with grilled bread. The rhum’s herbaceous quality contrasts beautifully with the cheese’s creaminess.
Create a tropical fruit salad using papaya, star fruit, and passion fruit, dressed with a rhum agricole syrup made by reducing the spirit with cane sugar and fresh mint. Clément VSOP or Rhum JM Blanc provide the right balance of grassiness and fruit to complement without overwhelming. Serve the rhum in a wine glass with a single ice cube to appreciate its unique terroir.
The Bottom Line
When experimenting with rum and food pairings, consider these principles: match intensity levels, look for complementary or contrasting flavours, and consider the rum’s origin and the cuisine’s cultural connections. Temperature plays a crucial role – white rums typically served chilled, aged rums at room temperature or with minimal ice.
Start by identifying the rum’s dominant flavours – vanilla, caramel, tropical fruit, spice, or molasses – then choose foods that either echo or contrast these notes. Don’t forget texture: crisp, fried foods often pair well with lighter rums, whilst rich, unctuous dishes need the weight of aged expressions.
The joy of food and drink pairing lies in discovery. As rum continues its renaissance in the UK’s dining scene, these combinations offer endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you’re hosting a rum-pairing dinner or simply enjoying a thoughtful match, let curiosity guide your choices and prepare to be delighted by the results.
