A Foodie’s Guide To Bristol

If you’re the kind of person who plans your weekend around what you’re going to eat, welcome—you’re in good company. Bristol’s food scene is a dream for food lovers. Whether you’re into trendy small plates, comforting home-cooked flavours or the buzz of a street food market, this city delivers in spades.
So whether you’re already living here or thinking about making the move, we’ve put together a foodie’s guide to Bristol to help you discover all the delicious things on offer.
Why Bristol’s a Bit of a Big Deal for Food
Over the last few years, Bristol’s reputation as one of the UK’s top foodie cities has exploded—and for good reason. The city’s packed with independent restaurants, creative chefs and local producers doing brilliant things with seasonal ingredients. From laid-back lunch spots to proper date-night dining, there’s something for everyone.
What makes it even better? So many of these places focus on sustainability and local sourcing, so you can eat well and feel good about it too.
Where to Eat: Our Favourite Spots
Honestly, we could write a book on all the great places to eat in Bristol, but here’s a little taster to get you started:
Bokman
Tucked away on Nine Tree Hill, Bokman is the kind of cosy, low-key spot you could walk past if you weren’t looking — but you absolutely shouldn’t. Their take on Korean comfort food is full of deep, rich flavours and the slow-cooked gochujang chicken is the stuff of legend. It’s a real gem, with a small menu and natural wines to go with.
COR
Over on North Street, COR is all about sharing. Think Mediterranean-inspired small plates that change with the seasons. It’s the kind of place you go with friends, order way too many dishes and leave feeling seriously smug. Their vibe is super friendly and relaxed—perfect for a long, lazy lunch or casual dinner.
Bianchis
If you love Italian food (and honestly, who doesn’t?), Bianchis in Montpelier should be on your list. It’s from the same team behind Pasta Loco and Pizza Bianchi, and it’s set in a lovely old diner space. Expect top-notch pasta, lovely wines and a menu that keeps you coming back to try more.
Nutmeg Street Kitchen
Inspired by India’s street markets, Nutmeg Street Kitchen is bursting with colour, flavour and proper spice. They put a modern twist on regional Indian dishes, using wood fire cooking and traditional techniques. If you’re after big flavour and generous hospitality, this is your spot.
Bravas
For something a bit special but still totally unpretentious, Bravas is a winner. It’s all about Spanish tapas and everything from the sizzling chorizo to the sherry selection hits the mark. It’s lively, fun and always packed for a reason.
Seven Lucky Gods
And if you fancy something with a Japanese twist, head to Seven Lucky Gods at Wapping Wharf. It’s inspired by Tokyo izakaya bars – so expect punchy little plates, sushi and great cocktails in a buzzing atmosphere. Ideal for when you want something cool and casual.
Local Dishes and Specialties
Bristol isn’t necessarily known for a single “famous dish” (unless you count a bacon butty from a market van), but the city has plenty of homegrown foodie gems. Bristol Cream sherry is a classic local export and places like the Clifton Sausage celebrate British comfort food with a gourmet twist.
What really defines Bristol’s food scene though is its creativity—chefs here love to play with flavours and influences. You’ll find vegan takes on Sunday roasts, locally brewed beers that pair perfectly with street food, and menus that change weekly based on what’s fresh and local.
Food Festivals and Events
One of the best ways to explore Bristol’s food culture is through its many festivals and events. The Bristol Food Connections Festival is a big one—it brings together chefs, growers, producers and food lovers across the city for tastings, workshops and street food feasts.
Then there’s the Bristol Craft Beer Festival, which pairs local and international brews with amazing food vendors. In winter, the Christmas Market is packed with festive treats, while farmers’ markets pop up all year round in spots like Whiteladies Road and Harbourside.
If you’re the kind of person who gets excited by the smell of sizzling onions from a food truck, Bristol’s got you covered.
Moving to Bristol for the Food Scene?
Honestly, we don’t blame you. If you’re relocating to Bristol to chase your foodie dreams, we’re here to help.
At Bristol Van Removals, we’ve helped loads of people move into the city to start a new chapter. We know the area inside out, and we make sure your move goes smoothly – whether you’re bringing a kitchen full of gadgets or a crate of cookbooks. We even help businesses relocate, with careful logistics planning and a personal touch that makes all the difference.
Let us take care of the move so you can get stuck into what really matters; finding your new favourite place to eat.