EatDrink24/7 recommendations: best of central Bristol

Have you picked up your copy of EatDrink24/7 yet? In Bristol’s first truly independent food and drink guide, now available for free across the city, 50 panelists share their recommendations.

In the first of a series of daily features all this week, here are our panelists’ picks places to eat and drink in the centre of town.

Restaurants

Adelina Yard
Queen Quay, Welsh Back, BS1 4SL

Chefs Jamie Randall (formerly at Odette’s in London’s Primrose Hill) and Olivia Barry (most recently at Murano, Angela Hartnett’s Michelin starred restaurant in Mayfair) have brought to Bristol ambitious modern European food which they first tested out at pop-ups in Bedminster and Totterdown.

“They’re absolutely smashing it. I love Jamie’s approach to simplicity but putting some touches on his dishes that really reflect his own personality. I think we’re going to see Adelina Yard raising the bar bit by bit.” – Peter Sanchez-Inglesias, Casamia

“Modern European dining with a nod to one of my favourite London eateries, Odette’s. Small but perfectly formed waterside restaurant. Innovative takes on seasonal produce are the order of the day and great wines served by friendly and knowledgeable staff.” – Andy Clarke, TV food producer

“This place has some of the finest fine dining I’ve ever had, let alone just in Bristol. The service is immaculate, flavours original and they have some really interesting wines.” – Jake Black, Chomp

“Bristol seems to attract bright young couples with impressive restaurant pedigrees, emigrating from London with young families. Box E is the most notable one other than Adelina Yard, where Jamie and his team cook with great finesse.” – Pam Lloyd, Pam Lloyd PR

Bertha’s Pizza
The Old Gaol Stables, Cumberland Road, BS1 6UX

Pizzas cooked in an oven specially made by a fifth generation oven maker in Naples with the searing 500-degrees heat producing charcoal-blistered sourdough creations with a chewy crust so good it can be saved until last. Out of here comes bread every Saturday morning, and also be sure to leave some room for the homemade gelato.

“When you’ve been named by the Guardian as one of the top 10 pizza places in the UK, you know you must be doing something right. We’d like to say we knew Bertha’s before they became famous but the reality is that they hit the ground running from the start and have never looked back.” – Tessa Lidstone, Box-E

“Graham, Kate and the team at Bertha’s have a wonderful approach to food and service. Their restaurant is well thought out and relaxed. I love the low fuss approach without any compromise on food or service. The quality of the pizzas and service are impeccable, and the atmosphere when dinning is wonderful.” – Rosie Morgan, Bristol Cheesemonger

“Sourdough pizza in a cool building at the top of Wapping Wharf. Huge passion for pizza and dough from Graham, Kate, and the whole team. The Meat & Heat pizza rocks my world.” – John Drysdale, Small Street Espresso

“Graham’s strive for the perfect pizza has led him around Italy and back to Bristol. Thankfully for us, he returned to make fantastically tasty pizzas and ice cream suitable for everyone.” – Justin Hawke, Moor Beer

Box-E
Cargo1, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6WP

Every chef dreams about creating their perfect kitchen and restaurant from scratch. For Elliott Lidstone, that dream is now a reality. While Elliott is ensconced behind pots and pans, his wife Tess is front of house. It’s the sort of food remembered long after the final bite in a restaurant that proves once and for all that size doesn’t matter.

“A neighbour of Chicken Shed, Box-E‘s head chef Elliot Lidstone’s cooking is up there with some of the best in the city. There’s a really personal feel when you’re eating there. I have a feeling that Elliot is destined for great things.” – Josh Eggleton, Pony & Trap

“The best new addition in town for me. I could live on their bread and butter alone. The ambiance is beautiful, the food is simple and perfectly executed and the wine list is one of the most interesting I have had the pleasure of drinking from.” – Danny Walker, Psychopomp

“I can sum Box-E up in one word. Flawless. The whole experience is an incredibly personal one while the food is as fresh as it can be, arriving in the morning and being on your plate that night.” – Natalie Brereton, food blogger

“Elliott is probably the chef I’m most astonished by in Bristol right now, producing exemplary food in a kitchen about the size of my kitchen table and he’s doing it all on his own. An evening sitting at the pass, watching him cook while he chats to you is an experience not to be missed.” – Pam Lloyd, Pam Lloyd PR

Burger Theory
13-15 King St, BS1 4EF

What started out as creative burgers being served at festivals and food markets has turned into permanent kitchens at both Kongs and also at the Golden Lion on Gloucester Road. Open Mon-Thur 5pm-10pm; Fri-Sun midday-10pm.

“What can we say – yum yum yum! Also consistently brill. We want to go through all their burgers! KFC in particular is divine!” – Fozia Ismail, Matatu Kitchen

“I can safely say I have never had a bad experience here (and I have eaten a lot of burgers in my lifetime). The menu changes regularly and uses surprising combinations that work incredibly well. There are plenty of options to choose from and fantastic vegetarian options without taking away from delicious flavours. Did I mention they also do Kimchi fries? Say no more.” – Natalie Brereton, food blogger

Casamia
The General, 8 Lower Guinea St, BS1 6FU

The heart and soul of Casamia’s original Westbury-on-Trym home remains; it’s just been transplanted to different surroundings, with sister restaurants Pi Shop and Paco’s Tapas next door. Casamia changes its menu four times a year with the seasons, meaning that you always have an excuse to come back for more of the finest dining experience it’s possible to have in Bristol.

“If you’re looking for Michelin starred, push-the-frigging-boat-out, fine-dining then Casamiais definitely it. Go for the ridiculously impressive tasting menu and enjoy cutting edge cooking and inventive use of top-notch ingredients.” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, bon vivant

“Casamia is now just one of a thoroughly impressive trio of restaurants by the inimitable Sanchez family. The food combines art, science and serious culinary skill and expertise. Technically flawless.” – Pam Lloyd, Pam Lloyd PR

“Time seems to operate differently through Casamia’s archways. A nine-course tasting menu accompanied by a matching wine flight saw my wife and I sat in awe at the food presented to us for four hours, with only the babysitter fees racking up at home our cue to depart soon before midnight.” – Martin Booth, Bristol24/7

Chomp
10 St Nicholas Street, BS1 1UQ

Burgers and steaks the likes of which you’ll be hard-pressed to find bettered in Bristol. Wash everything down with the Chomp House Brew, a pale ale especially brewed for Chomp by Wiper & True. Drinks here are taken as seriously as the food, with numerous craft beers in bottles and cans, and 10 different bourbons.

“For the best burger in Bristol, look no further. With a small menu comes some seriously well planned burgers. Order as is, and let them make your burger perfectly. (I don’t normally eat mustard. But trust me, it’s great!)” – Zara Norracott, Zara’s Chocolates

“The best burger I’ve enjoyed for a long time and couldn’t help feeling slightly jealous of the table next to us and their tasty looking steaks. I wanted both! Anything you choose is cooked to perfection and with great veggie options available too. Great service, and a glass of wine (or bottle) on the side is a must.” – Emma Chapman-Burnett, Yonder Collective

“Burger or steak? The choice is so hard as they are both so good.” – Harry Calvert, Gingerbeard’s Preserves

Flow
9A The Haymarket Walk, BS1 3LN

Specialising in seasonal vegetarian food, this restaurant takes inspiration from many food cultures. Its veggie dishes include salt-baked beetroot, beer broccoli fritters, woodland mushrooms and caramelised leeks plus desserts. Drinks comprise vegan wines plus local beers and ciders. Open Tues-Sat 6pm-10.30pm (food served 6pm-9.30pm).

“For something a bit different, I urge everyone who’s never eaten at a vegetarian restaurant to go try it. The food comes in small plates so you get to try all sorts of different things in one sitting. Good fun.” – Ingrid Bates, Dunleavy Vineyards

“Simply great vegetarian food.” – Sara Venn, Incredible Edible

“Vegetarian food to silence a stubborn carnivore.” – Graham Faragher,  Bertha’s Pizza

Paco Tapas
3a The General, Lower Guinea Street, BS1 6SY

There is a painting hanging on one wall of Paco Tapas that hung in the original Casamia when it opened as a simple Italian trattoria in Westbury-on-Trym 1999. Back then, Spainish-born Paco Sanchez-Iglesias was advised not to open a Spanish restaurant in his adopted hometown. How times have changed. This is a tapas bar you could happily spend all evening in, especially if tucking into the selection of sherries starting at £3.50 a glass.

“Casamia will blow your mind and Pi Shop is probably the best pizza I’ve had in the city, but Paco is pretty special. What I like is that it’s Peter and his family’s heritage in food and drink. It’s nothing too over the top, and the menu isn’t too crowded and made of the best ingredients cooked to perfection. The selection of traditional Andalusian sherries is also incredible.” – Josh Eggleton, Pony & Trap

“Sherry from the barrel and better tapas than I’ve had many times in Spain. Feels like you’re on holiday. Olé!” – Elly Curshen, Pear Café

“Warmly hosted by the incomparable Paco Sanchez-Iglesias, who can just pop in from Casamia next door. A mix of low priced and extravagant tapas, it makes a trip to hospital worthwhile.” – Andy Clarke, TV food producer

“A truly special little tapas restaurant. They serve a nice selection of sherry by the glass and have a tapas menu that is a thing of beauty. The bravas is crispy, fluffy, deep and rich, the pork ribs are a spiritual experience and the five-year-old jamon is out of this world. The service is very polished and I always feel spoiled rotten by the time I leave.” – Danny Walker, Psychopomp

Pi Shop
The General, 3 Lower Guinea St, BS1 6FU

Think of your favourite experience eating pizza and turn it up to 11 when you arrive at Pi Shop. It’s exactly what you would expect from pizzas made by a group of chefs who have earned their spurs helping Casamia gain and subsequently retain its Michelin star, and spent months before opening ensuring that the pizzas here are as good as they can possibly be.

“Wonderful pizzas to peruse roasting on the wood fire. If you cannot afford to go to Casamia but want to experience the Sanchez family’s food, this and Paco Tapas are the right places. But saying that you need to have the experience of Casamia the most ambitious place in Bristol a must go!” – Romy Gill, Romy’s Kitchen

“Epic pizzas put together by a hugely talented team. Each time i go in they impress me more. An awesome little building and setting too.” – Bruce Gray, Small Bar

“Pizza from a Michelin starred chef. Yeah, that’s a thing. Really inventive use of ingredients and toppings (carbonara pizza!), a superb sourdough crust, well made negronis and soft-serve ice-cream for dessert. Come summer, this harbourside joint is going to be absolutely heaving.” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, bon vivant

“Some very stiff competition but I reckon Pi Shop’s pizzas are the best in Bristol. Order the soft serve and the dressed salad too. Bloody lush.” – Elly Curshen, Pear Café

Woky Ko
Unit 7, Cargo, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6WP

A restaurant serving simple food with a real sense of fun opened by former Masterchef finalist Larkin Cen. The casual diner serves baos, noodles and small plates, reflecting the freshness of Asian food. Watch the ‘Wokstars’ in the kitchen cook your food to order.

“Amazing baos, noodles and small plates all wrapped up in a shipping container on the harbourside. What’s not to love about that! I’ve got a lot of respect for what Larkin does, he’s a great entrepreneur and he’s got terrific understanding and skill when it comes to the food he puts out.” – Josh Eggleton, Pony & Trap

“Woky Ko make amazing Asian food in their tiny shipping container restaurant. Well worth a visit if you are down near the M Shed – they do takeaways too!” – Ingrid Bates, Dunleavy Vineyards

“This is wicked. Their baos are insanely good. I love this place.” – Peter Sanches-Iglesias, Casamia

 

PUBS & BARS

Bag of Nails 
141 St George’s Road, BS1 5UW

Bristol’s world famous ‘cat pub’ – but it’s certainly not all about the feline regulars, with this small free house also named the Beard Friendly Pub of the Year by the Beard Liberation Front in 2016 as well as Bristol24/7’s Pub of the Year. Cask ales and ‘evil keg’ options are in regular rotation, with a popular pub quiz every Tuesday, Lego evenings and an eclectic soundtrack provided by landlord Luke’s record collection. Open daily midday-11pm.

“Kittens, proper beer, pork pies, vinyl, board games and the best landlord ever. Pretty much our perfect Sunday hideout if we’re not working or at the allotment.” –  Daniele Coombs, Bishopston Supper Club

The Bank Tavern  
8 John Street, BS1 2HR

​A free house off the beaten track in the heart of the Old City close to the line of Bristol’s medieval city wall. There is always a fine selection of unusual beers; and the kitchen dishes out superb pub grub, traditional Sunday lunches and international dishes. It even bakes its own bread. Bar open Sun-Wed midday-midnight; Thurs-Sat midday-1am; food served daily midday-4pm.

“Yes I know, everyone loves The Bank. But they should. It’s my second home. Sam and his team are so welcoming and the food is so, so good. They were also the first people to officially stock Espensen Spirit meaning they have a particular place in my heart.”– Sam Espensen, Bristol Spirit & Espensen Spirit

Bar Buvette
31 Baldwin Street, BS1 1RG

It may have gone away for a while after it burst onto the scene in 2014, but Bar Buvette’s popularity hasn’t waned. On the bar along the back, wine is plucked from the wall and glugged neatly into carafes to be whisked away and sloshed back between French-style bites from the kitchen.

“I just love that the wine selection is from small wine producers. There is also fab French bistro dishes and homemade charcuterie. I love the feel of the place and always imagine myself to be in Paris when I visit.” – Romy Gill, Romy’s Kitchen 

“This is without a doubt my favourite place to drink and eat in Bristol. I love it. There is no finer way to spend an evening. Honest.” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, Bon Vivant 

“They carry the wine list we’re most jealous of. Where you’ll find half the chefs in Bristol on a Tuesday night.” – Graham Faragher, Bertha’s Pizza 

“If I ever wanted to open a restaurant again, it would be like this. The wines rock and I love the small ever changing list. The food is spot on and eyes tight shut I think you can imagine yourself smack bang somewhere wonderful in France.” – Claire Thomson, Writer 

Brewdog
58 Baldwin Street, BS1 1QW

The beer punks opened in Bristol in the mists of 2012. Now their beer is stocked in Tesco, they may not be so hip – they even threatened a lawsuit in early 2017 against plans for a bar with ‘punk’ in its name that wanted to open in Leeds. At their Bristol bar, choose from BrewDog’s own brews, as well as a fine selection of beers from around the world. Food choices include charcuterie, cheeses and bar snacks. Open Sun-Wed midday-midnight; Thurs-Sat midday-1am.

“Love this location on the river overlooking Castle Park. They know a thing about beer.” –
Graham Faragher, Bertha’s Pizza

The Gold Bar
Harbour Hotel, 53-55 Corn Street, BS1 1HT

Look out for luxury cocktails, posh bar nibbles, sharing platters and well-appointed surroundings at this swish bar set within the elegant period premises of the Harbour Hotel. Open Thurs to Sat midday-1am; Sun-Weds midday-11pm.

“My wife, Christine, and I recently went here. It’s a really nice bar and we had a good cocktail which I had not heard of before, with orange flower water. It was unusual and tasted great. It was a place that offered good service in a nice, new setting. The drinks tasted really good, it was something different and really well made which is not always the case. In our industry, it does not need to be a flash place but needs to do a good job every day.” – James Wilkins, Wilks

Kongs 
13-15 King Street, BS1 4EF

Gourmet burgers from Burger Theory, sides and desserts meet ping pong, table football, craft beers and vintage video games like Street Fighter and Pacman. Open Mon-Thurs 4pm-1am; Fri-Sun midday-2am.

“If I’m meeting people for beers, I’m likely to suggest Kongs. Relaxed atmosphere, plenty of room and Sierra Nevada always on tap.” – Jake Black, Chomp

Little Victories 
7 Gaol Ferry Steps, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6WE

Start or end the day with your own little victory from the team behind Small Street Espresso. Open early for coffee and pastries and transforms later into a bar serving craft beers, cocktails and wines. Open Mon & Tues 7.30am-4.30pm; Wed-Fri 7.30am-9pm; Sat 9.30am-9pm; Sun 9.30am-4.30pm.

Little Victories will mean different things for different people. Enjoy your own little victory as it were, over the course of a day. Grab a takeaway coffee in the morning, a sandwich at lunchtime and a beer after work in a prime spot on one of the tables outside as the sun goes down over the Floating Harbour.

“Brilliant for coffee. I go in there to enjoy a damn right good coffee. Their coffee is one of the best in Bristol. I want to go in there for their cocktails soon.” – Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Casamia 

“Great coffee. Great atmosphere. Great gin. I love that Little Victories caters for every hour of the day. I can pop in for a morning coffee or a lunch time snack, as well as heading after work for a drink and some nibbles. Perfect.” – Rosie Morgan, Bristol Cheesemonger 

“These guys are number one for coffee, no doubt about it. Always friendly and a great selection of cakes and pastries from some of the best bakeries in the city.” – Jake Black, Chomp 

“The Small Street guys have been rocking great coffee since I moved to the city and their shop has been a home from home. Their new place Little Vic’s is no less impressive. Plus there you can get beer!” – Bruce Gray, Small Bar 

Milk Thistle
Quay Head House, Colston Avenue, BS1 1EB

The illustrious and elusive younger sister of Hyde & Co. Stretching over four floors, the venue prides itself on serving some of the city’s finest cocktails in an opulent and cosy setting. Open Mon-Thurs 5pm-1am, Fri 5pm-3am, Sat 6pm-3am.

“Located in a historic harbourside building behind an unmarked door. Buzz this and they’ll let you in (if it’s not already rammed, you’re trashed or part of a raucous hen/stag-do). This cocktail bar has to be seen to be believed. Think gothic, wood panelled English country house spread over a few floors.” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, bon vivant

“Prohibition at its best. You’d never know this place exists unless you know… If that makes sense! I’ve spotted people hovering outside looking at maps on their phone just as I did the first time I went. Inside is a wonderland of old curiosities-stags heads, burnt fireplaces and fascinating objet d’art. The mixologisits are a lot younger than the curiosities, however, and the cocktails are exquisite!”- Andy Clarke, television food series food producer

Red Light
1 Unity St, BS1 5HH

Find the red light, pick up the pay phone and prepare for a special experience with some creative cocktails. Open Mon-Thurs 7pm-1am; Friday & Sat 7pm-3am

“My favourite cocktail bar for a few reasons. I think you’ll find the best made cocktails in Bristol, which will be served to you by friendly and knowledgeable staff who are happy to accommodate you in any way they can.” – Dee Davies, Jinzu

The Rummer
All Saints Lane, BS1 1JH

One of the oldest pubs in Bristol, The Rummer boasts a formidable collection of more than 400 premium spirits. Craft gin and spiced rum are created in the downstairs micro-distillery, with tastings available and bespoke gins matching the food menu. Open Mon-Thurs 10am-11pm; Fri & Sat 10am-midnight; Sun midday-5pm.

“An extensive selection of spirits and experimental cocktails. Not to mention they are now distilling gin in the basement!”- Harry Calvert, Gingerbeard’s Preserves

Small Bar
31 King St, BS1 4DZ

A craft beer bar at the epicentre of Bristol’s Beermuda Triangle on King Street, providing Bristol with the very best beers that the UK has to offer, from a bar team who are passionate, approachable and engaging. Showcasing the best of the independents and focusing on the quality of product and quality of service.

“Cracking craft beer bar. I can be found there often. Heaving on a weekend, especially in the summer when everyone’s drinking on the cobbled street outside.” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, Bon Vivant 

“Always an amazing selection of beers and really knowledgeable staff. Somehow, at the end of any night out in Bristol, all roads seem to lead to Small Bar.” – Jake Black, Chomp

“A great place to have a chilled out beer on sunny afternoon, meet for an after work drink, grab some scran or have a good night out.” – Harry Calvert, Gingerbread’s Preserves 

“My favourite pub, which opened my eyes drinking two-thirds of a pint and drinking a different beer with every round. I have spent many all-dayers and all-nighters here tasting the delicious food pop-ups they have and trying hundreds of delicious beers over the years.” – Tony Hovey, Great British Bake-Off Illustrator 

Spoke & Stringer
The Boat House, Unit 1 Gasworks Ln, BS1 5AD

Free-spirited bar-cum-café-cum-shop Spoke & Stringer sits on the harbourside and benefits from a terrace to admire the view with a cool drink in hand. Enjoy brunch or evening tapas and a local craft beer after perusing the clothes and surf gear in the shop. Open Mon 8am-3pm; Tues-Fri 8am-11pm; Sat 9.30am-11pm; Sun 9.30am-4pm.

“Take the boat over the harbour from Spike Island, then sit in the sun for breakfast. Perfect.” – John Drysdale, Small Street Espresso & Little Victories

“For a fabulous brunch, especially on a sunny day ‘Spoke & Stringer’, love their crushed avocado with poached egg on sourdough.” –  Pat Powell, Swoon 

The Strawberry Thief
26 Broad Street, BS1 2HG

A bar as stylish as it is serious about drink, specialising in Belgian beer and featuring an unrivalled selection. There’s table service and the specials board is updated weekly. Open Tues-Thurs 4pm-11pm; Fri 4pm-midnight; Sat midday-midnight.

“I always seem to find a new favourite beer when I visit here. Make sure you try the food from the pop-up Chocolate Bear as well, especially the waffles.” – Martin Booth, Editor of Bristol24/7

Wild Beer
Wapping Wharf, BS1 5WE

Wild Beer is a brewery based near Evercreech in Somerset, founded in 2012 by a pair of friends who met while working at Bristol Beer Factory and fancied going it alone. They opened their first bar in Cheltenham in 2015 and were not able to turn down the opportunity for this prime location, which since opening in summer 2016 has become a mecca for Bristol beer drinkers.

“Every Tuesday we go to Wild Beer. It’s nice because you’ve got things that are accessible which you can drink quite easily, but then you can drink something really different as well. Last night I had a lobster, cockles and salt beer. It was really weird but I ate it with prawn cocktail crisps and thought it was amazing. To me, that’s a nice relaxed place to go and it’s on our doorstep as well.” – Peter Sanchez-Inglesias, Casamia

“LOADS of beers on tap, in cans and in bottles. So much choice. Food operation is run by Hook Camden and they’re serving up some absolutely banging (untraditional) fish and chips. Good value for money.” – Elly Curshen, Pear Cafe

“Facing on to the harbour with outside seating, I’ve already had some cracking (albeit freezing) evenings here over the winter. I reckon this is going to be rammed in the summer.” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, bon vivant

“A great spot to watch the sunset with a beer next to the floating harbour. Best of all, you can taste the different beers before you decide.” – Flora Slater, The Pickled Brisket

Cafés

Ahh Toots 
4-8 Glass Arcade, Saint Nicholas Market, BS1 1LJ

Stunning cakes are the stars here, alongside owner Tam’s quirky display of Marmite jars. Don’t miss the sausage rolls if you’re looking for something savoury. Open daily 9am-3pm.
“My favourite place for sweet treats. Mega tasty cakes, which look so beautiful it seems a shame to cut into them, plus a damn good chorizo sausage roll.” – Dee Davies, Jinzu

“If you want cake, go to Ahh Toots in St Nick’s. Huge selection, incredible stuff.”- Elly Curshen, The Pear Café

“Tam was the first person I thought of when I wanted to choose who to make our wedding cake. That we ended up forgetting to collect it is another story, but once it arrived it was perfect.”- Martin Booth, Bristol24/7

Bearpit Social 
The Bearpit, BS1 3LE

Bearpit Social is a social enterprise coffee shop offering light snacks and hot drinks. Open Mon-Fri 7am-3pm; Sat 9am-4pm.

“At lunchtime a great range of sandwiches, both veggie and meat based. Bearpit Social not only creates great, tasty food for its customers, but also is helping to transform a space in Bristol’s city centre to one that is inclusive and safe; a destination rather than a thoroughfare. A great business with a huge heart that we should all support.”- Sara Venn, Incredible Edible

Better Food

1 Gaol Ferry Steps, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6WE

This café in one half of a fabulous shop aims to offer the best in fresh, organic, and local food at fair prices, and caters to a variety of dietary needs. Open Mon-Sat 8am-8pm; Sun 10am-4pm.

“This place is really great. I just love their selection. We sometimes go in there to get product knowledge for Casamia. You see the odd thing that you’ve never heard of before. You always learn something when you walk in. Sometimes I also just pop into their café for a sausage roll or a salad.” – Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Casamia

Beyond The Wall 
Millennium Promenade, BS1 5SZ

Serving nutritious food, fine coffee and somewhere to discuss your sporting endeavour. Open Mon-Fri 8am-6pm; Sat 10.30am-5.30pm; Sun 11am-5pm.

“Probably the healthiest café in Bristol, not just because it can be found within The Triathlon Shop. This is a regular haunt of mine, a beacon of independence in the Harbourside. Be inspired by owner Andy’s latest extraordinary running exploits.” – Martin Booth, Bristol24/7 

Big Juice Bar
21-22 The Glass Arcade, Saint Nicholas Market, BS1 1LJ

If it can be juiced, you can probably drink it at Big Juice Bar. Raw fruit and vegetable juices are among the top picks. Cleansing health shots featuring superfoods like wheatgrass also make an appearance. Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 8.30am-5pm.

“Love this place! Such great value and delicious juices. Always get avo in mine to make it a smoothie. And the winter warmer was ace!”– Fozia Ismail, Matatu Kitchen

Boston Tea Party 
75 Park Street, BS1 5PF

The regional coffee shop chain’s flagship store, which opened in 1995, remains a fixture of Park Street with its tiered garden area recently doubled in size, and an evolving menu centred on coffees, teas, cakes and light bites. Open Mon-Sat 7am-8pm: Sun 8am-7pm.

“If you need something, they’ll be able to help. I can take coffee snobs for a flat white or my nan for lunch. Properly done speciality coffee, fab beer selection, tasty food and a relaxed environment with highly stylised fit-outs.” – Dave Faulkner, Extract Coffee

Brunnel’s Buttery 
Museum Street, Wapping Wharf, Spike Island, BS1 6UD

When thirst or hunger strike in Wapping Wharf, urban snackers can refuel at this diminutive cafe with outdoor seating. Hot drinks, bacon butties, chips, jacket potatoes, pies and cakes are the order of the day. Open Mon-Fri 8am-4pm; Sat & Sun 8am-5pm.

“Sometimes, while you’re walking along the docks on a sunny day, what you really need is a cup of tea and a cone of chips. Brunel’s Buttery has been serving this need for as long as I can remember, and no lazy amble dockside is complete without it.” – Mat North, Full Court Press

Chance & Counters 
20 Christmas Steps, BS1 5BS

Launched by a trio of board game enthusiasts, this café has more than 600 games to play from old favourites to brand new releases. On the menu, there are sandwiches, cheese platters, light bites, speciality coffees, as well as locally-sourced ales and ciders. Look out for weekly student deals on Wednesdays. Open daily 10am-11pm. Food served until 10pm.

“Love this place, wicked selection of board games to play while sipping on some great local beers!”– Harry Calvert, Gingerbeard’s Preserves

“One of my new favourite haunts. It’s such a great way to spend an evening. The staff there are as clued- up on board games as you can get and are extremely happy to help you out. Their selection of drinks is small but well thought-out and they serve a bit of food to tide you over. Due to my current pregnancy I’ve found myself heading here about once a week.” – Dee Davies, Jinzu

Full Court Press
59 Broad Street, BS1 2EJ

Mat North and his team at Full Court Press take their coffee more seriously than anywhere else in Bristol, so much so that Mat has even written a book on the subject. But this café is for coffee aficionados, not coffee snobs. They take the provenance and terroir of the beans, roasting and brewing very seriously, with tasting notes giving you everything you need to know about each roast and the changes in flavours.

“My daily haunt for the perfect cup of coffee. I visit FCP at least five times a week and every time have the most delicious coffee. The staff’s abilities and knowledge are unparalleled and the variety of coffee on offer is ever changing. It’s where I go for the perfect cup of coffee.” – Rosie Morgan, Bristol Cheesemonger

“My fave coffee shop. Matt and his team are seriously skilled baristas and the coffee they serve is constantly changing (but always great) so a good place to go to try lots of different styles of beans.” – Elly Curshen, Pear Cafe 

“Right at the forefront of the coffee scene in Bristol back in 2013, still there, still strong! Still serving pretty much perfect espresso and filter coffee from the best roasters. It’s where we drink on our days off.” – John Drysdale, Small St Espresso 

“My absolute favourite place in Bristol for coffee. One week’s roast is never the same as the next, ensuring that you will always be coming back.” – Anna-Louise Taylor, Food Writer 

Hanoi Coffee Company 
29-33 St Stephen’s Street, BS1 1JX

An inventive breakfast and lunch menu is offered at this small café with an Oriental twist. Besides coffees, salads, traditional breakfast baps and topped sourdough toasts, Hanoi specialises in South East Asian broths and meaty or veggie Vietnamese banh mi sandwiches containing sauces like hoisin and sweet chilli. Open Mon-Thurs 7.30am-6pm; Fri 7.30am-9pm; Sat; 10am-9pm.

“It isn’t often that you have a sandwich and coffee that are so memorable that you’re still thinking about them days later. Enter the Hanoi Coffee Company’s Vietnamese drip coffees WITH CONDENSED MILK (so wrong/so right) and their ridiculously flavoursome banh mi sandwiches in fresh ciabattas dusted in semolina and you’ve got a lunch that dreams are made of.” – Tessa Lidstone, Box-E

Hart’s Bakery
Lower Approach Road, BS1 6QS

If good food in Bristol had a spiritual home, it would be Hart’s Bakery. Laura Hart first started selling baked goods from the back of her bicycle and now heads up a growing team of bakers, making dreamlike creations from the open kitchen. The custard tarts have already reached legendary status and you have to arrive very early to snaffle the Saturday bread.

“Hart’s gets endorsed with the kind of frequency that we’d like to eat their chocolate ginger friands so you’ve probably already visited this magical railway arch but we can honestly say we’ve never tasted better. I didn’t know what people were banging on about until I tried one of their cinnamon buns and now I feel as if I need a subscription.” – Tessa Lidstone, Box-E 

“The epitome of an amazing café. You can pop in there to have a naughty cake, buy some bread for home, have a tea or coffee. It’s got everything you need from morning until lunch. Everything about it is awesome. I’m a massive fan.” – Peter Sanchez-Inglesias, Casamia 

“The undisputed baking champions. I take visitors from all over the world to Hart’s and have never had anything short of an amazing response. Laura and her team achieve the impossible – nailing both sweet and savoury treats every time.” – Justin Hawke, Moor Beer 

“The Bristol Commandments state: Thou shalt not travel via Temple Meads without leaving time to visit Hart’s. Quite simply, the law.” – Elly Curshen, Pear Cafe

Pickle
Portwall Lane, BS1 6AG

This snacking pit-stop can be found at the Temple Meads end of Portwall Lane close to its little sister Ickle, and has now also put down roots in the visitor centre at Underfall Yard – with a third Pickle rumoured to be opening soon near another tourist favourite. Deli sandwiches made with artisan bread plus wraps, baguettes, snacks, coffees and cakes are available alongside one of the best views in town (of the Floating Harbour, not the Temple Circus gyratory). Opening times vary.

“This is a great spot for lunch and drinks off the beaten track. We sit in the café while the kids play with the activities in the museum and learn about the history of the Floating Harbour and Bristol’s waterways.” – Flora Slater, The Pickled Brisket

Pinkmans Bakery
85 Park Street, BS1 5PJ

Since opening in 2015, this bakery and café has been turning heads, making it into The Sunday Times top 25 bakeries in the UK. Breakfast and lunch is served together with desserts, coffees, teas and beers. Slowly fermented sourdough features in its pizzas. A host of breads, pastries and cakes are made on-site. Open Mon-Wed 7.30am-9pm; Thurs-Sat 7.30am-10pm; Sun 9am-6pm.

“Laid back Sunday morning brunch vibes. Love how they use the wood fired oven with such versatility. I’m a massive fan of a miniature brioche BLT, followed by a full size one from the oven!” – Jake Black, Chomp

Playground Coffee House
45 St Nicholas Street, BS1 1TP

Sit on a swing while playing a board game and sipping a speciality coffee. Homemade cakes are supplied fresh each day and by night the space becomes a bar. Open Mon-Weds 8.30am-5pm; Thurs & Fri 8.30am-11pm; Thursday and Friday; Sat 11am-11pm; Sun 11.30am-4.30pm.

“When my six-year-old daughter asks to go to Playground, I have to check whether she means here or the local swings in the park. She loves the board games; I love the coffee; we both love the homemade cakes. I’ll be in one evening soon to try their gin and coffee collaboration with Psychopomp.”- Martin Booth, Bristol24/7

Roll For The Soul 
2 Quay Street, BS1 2JL

This community bike café offers vegetarian and vegan food, and local coffees and beers, with a bike workshop upstairs. An energetic social enterprise, there are regular live music performances and special events. Open Mon & Tues 8am-6pm; Weds & Thurs 8am-9pm; Fri 8am-7pm; Sat 10am-7pm.

“Great veggie / vegan food and lots of bicycles. What’s not to like? Their Halloumi wrap is amazing!”- Pete Snowman, Bristol Cider Shop

Royce Rolls
St Nicholas Market, BS1 1JQ

A regular old favourite in the heart of St Nick’s, serving filled rolls with a variety of fillings alongside falafel salad boxes, toasted sandwiches and more. A good sweet treats selection as well from Herbert’s Bakery in Montpelier. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-5pm.

“The underrated star of St Nicks Market. They’ve been in the game over 30 years and that experience shows. Great sandwiches, soups and cakes.” – Mat North, Full Court Press

Salt 
120 St George’s Road, BS1 5UJ

Ethically sourced food and drink come together with regular evening events such as film nights and live music. An eclectic mix of furniture and décor is the backdrop to its breakfast, brunch and lunch menus, with craft beers and wines aplenty. Open Mon-Fri 9am-3.30pm.

“A place where time seems to stop still. Secure a sofa downstairs, listen to the vinyl records on the stereo and enjoy the lovely home cooked food.” – Martin Booth, Bristol24/7

Small Street Espresso 
23 Small St, BS1 1DW

Bristol’s original speciality coffee joint and still one of the best. Small but perfectly formed, try the house blend or regularly changing guest espressos served by expert baristas. Open Mon-Fri 7.30am-4.30pm; Sat 9.30am-4.30pm.

“These guys are number one for coffee, no doubt about it. Always friendly and a great selection of cakes and pastries from some of the best bakeries in the city.” – Jake Black, Chomp

“The Small Street guys have been rocking great coffee since I moved to the city and their shop has been a home from home. Their new place Little Victories is no less impressive. Plus there you can get beer!”- Bruce Gray, Small Bar and Left Handed Giant

Source
1-3 Exchange Avenue, BS1 1JW

With a menu that changes daily, Source uses thoughtfully-sourced seasonal, local ingredients in its range of breakfast and lunch dishes. A food hall is attached to the café, selling fresh produce and artisan edibles. Don’t miss the salted caramel brownies. Café open Mon 8am-4.30pm; Tues-Fri 8am-4.30pm; Sat 8am-4pm.

Offering a wide range of ingredients to cook restaurant-quality food at home. Experienced staff will help you select the best in seasonal produce. There is also a great selection of artisan cheeses, and an off licence showcasing local beers and wines, along with European producers.

“A butchery counter, cheese counter AND fresh fish counter, all piled with lovely British produce sold by knowledgeable staff. On top of that, it’s also got a great restaurant cooking the aforementioned excellent produce AND awesome cakes made by the resident pastry chef. Buy stuff there!” – Dan Vaux-Nobes, Bon Vivant

“I love this place – the staff are friendly and knowledgeable and the food is super tasty and unpretentious. I go here quite a lot for both breakfast and lunch, but also to buy meat and fish. A great example of a food business run by people who really know and care about what they’re doing.” – Jake Black, Chomp

“The finest examples of meat, fish, veg, deli, pantry and beverage essentials, combined with a top quality bakery and cafe. The homemade pastrami surpasses anything in New York.” – Justin Hawke, Moor Beer

“To have Source opposite my studio is a real treat. I have spent some time with the team of butchers, witnessing the skill and care that is taken with their artisanal approach to butchery and charcuterie -it’s very important to them. It’s great to see a food hall such as this thriving.” – Tom Hovey, Great British Bake Off Artist 

Swoon 
31a College Green, BS1 5TB

Swoon brings authentic Italian gelato to the bustling intersection between College Green and Park Street. A range of sorbets and gelatos in mouth-watering flavours using high-quality ingredients make poetry out of ice cream. Open Mon-Sun 10am-10.30pm.

“If you have never tasted gelato and think it’s just a posh word for ice cream, get to Swoon and have your mind blown. I recommend the mango sorbetto and pistachio gelato for the authentic Italian experience.” – Tom Hovey, The Great British Bake Off’s official artist

“We love Swoon. It’s our absolute favourite as a family. It’s what ice cream should taste like, with lingering great flavours. I love the pistachio flavour the most; it’s absolutely brilliant. I would love to collaborate on some ideas with them.” – Shilpi Choudhury, Chai Shai

Watershed 
1 Canon’s Rd, BS1 5TX

Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner using ingredients from local suppliers. Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-11pm; Sat 10am-11pm; Sun 10am-10.30pm.

“Great all-rounder. I go here for breakfast, but it’s a great place to meet people for a catch up, or to do a bit of work. Also, they do a damn tasty burger which is a big deal in my world.” – Jake Black, Chomp

Woodes 
18 Park Street, BS1 5JA

Inspired by French café interiors, this two-level coffee shop has been a feature on Park Street since 1966. Hot drinks, sandwiches and cakes are all on offer. Open: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm; Sat 8am-6pm; Sun 10am-5pm.

 

Market stalls and shops:

Better Food
1-5 Gaol Ferry Steps, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6WE

“This place is really great. I just love their selection. It’s not the cheapest place, but they are ethical with all their sourcing, they are big purveyors of local food. We sometimes go in there to get product knowledge for Casamia. You see the odd thing that you’ve never heard of before. You always learn something when you walk in. Sometimes I also just pop into their café for a sausage roll or a salad.” – Peter Sanchez-Iglesias, Casamia

 

Bristol Cider Shop
Unit 4, Cargo, Gaol Ferry Steps, BS1 6WE

“Recently moved from Christmas Steps to Cargo 1, this Bristol institution has lost none of its charm. Owned and run by cider lovers, you don’t get patronized by their knowledge like you so often can in this type of shop.”
– Andy Clarke, Television food series producer

Bristol Cheesemonger
Cargo 2, Museum Street, Wapping Wharf, BS1 6ZA

The first business to open within Cargo 2, the Bristol Cheesemonger moved here from its original home on St Nicholas Street in the Old City and has brought with it the same emphasis on artisan cheese from the West Country, sold by the engaging and passionate Rosie Morgan.

“Where would we be without Rosie’s recommendations? She has curated the most fantastic journey around British cheeses.”
– Fozia Ismail, Matatu Kitchen

“With such a great array of cheese, from traditional cow’s dairy, to sheep, goats and buffalo milk, and some unusual choices you don’t find in the supermarkets. It’s a cheesy dream!” – Zara Narracott, Zara’s Chocolates

“Rosie supplies most of our cheeses sourcing from the South West. Her cheese knowledge knows no bounds (and she’s lovely).” – Graham Faragher, Bertha’s Pizza

“Excellent specialist cheesemonger focusing on locally sourced cheeses.” – Mat North, Full Court Press

Dawsons

1 Canon’s Rd, BS1 5TX

“Catch Simon at the Harbourside weekend market for Cornish pasties and custard tarts.” – Chris Chubb, Small Street Espresso and Little Victories

Matina

The Glass Arcade, BS1 1JQ

“Kebabs that you can eat in the day time! Every wrap is baked fresh in front of your eyes in the tandoor.” – Chris Chubb, Small Street Espresso and Little Victories

“Fantastic chicken kebabs wrapped in freshly baked bread from the tandoor oven. A great spot for lunch in Castle Park in the sunshine but it gets super busy so need to get there early!” – Pete Snowman, Bristol Cider Shop

“Kurdish style filled wraps served by a fast working team of blokes from a hatch in St Nics. Best street food in Bristol, in my opinion. It will 100 per cent drip out the bottom so I’ve developed a special ‘Matina stance’ so stop it landing on my shoes. Mega queues at lunchtime so time your visit carefully or you’ll be waiting ages.” – Elly Curshen, The Pear Café

Sausage Station

St Nicholas Market, BS1 1LK

“Get there between 12-2pm for the best value lunch in the city. Different choice of sausages every day.” – Chris Chubb, Small Street Espresso and Little Victories

She Sells Sushi 

Wine Street, BS1 2BQ

“There is a severe lack of good sushi in Bristol, so I was very excited when I discovered Lisa’s street food stall at St Nick’s Friday street market. She creates an amazing range of Dumplings and Sushi with toppings like Eel, salmon and quails eggs. I usually go for the bento box which includes sushi, and succulent slow cooked Beef Donburi with sticky rice, wasabi and pickled ginger… I’m salivating just writing this.” – Tom Hovey, The Great British Bake Off official artist

Source

1-3 Exchange Avenue, BS1 1JW

The food hall at Source offers a wide range of ingredients for you to cook restaurant quality food at home. A team of experienced staff have years of experience to help you select the best in seasonal produce from West Country farms and waters off the south coast. There is also a great selection of artisan cheeses from the UK and Europe, along with an off licence showcasing some local breweries and wine makers along with a selection from European producers.

“I love this place – the staff are friendly and knowledgeable and the food is super tasty and unpretentious. Best sausage sandwich in Bristol and fantastic coffee. I go here quite a lot for both breakfast and lunch, but also to buy meat and fish from the great produce market at the other end. A great example of a food business run by people who really know and care about what they’re doing.” – Jake Black, Chomp

I’m really lucky to have a studio on St Nicholas Street, just behind St Nick’s Market. So to have Source Food Hall and cafe next opposite is a real treat. I have spent some time with the team of butchers, photographing and sketching their process for an upcoming illustration project. I witnessed first-hand the skill and care that is taken with their artisanal approach to butchery and charcuterie is very important to them. It’s great to see a food hall such as this thriving.” – Tom Hovey, Great British Bake Off artist

Liz and her team at Source somehow manage to collect the finest examples of meat, fish, veg, deli, pantry and beverage essentials. They combine this with a top quality on-site bakery and cafe in their relatively small shop.  The homemade pastrami surpasses anything you’ll get in New York.” – Justin Hawke, Moor Beer

“A butchery counter, cheese counter AND fresh fish counter, all piled with lovely British produce sold by knowledgeable staff. On top of that, it’s also got a great restaurant cooking the aforementioned excellent produce AND awesome cakes made by the resident pastry chef. Buy stuff there!”
– Dan Vaux-Nobes, bon vivant

 

N.B: For the purposes of the EatDrink24/7 guide, Bristol has been divided into four geographical areas: Central, South, North-West and North-East. Central encompasses most of the BS1 postcode, to the start of Stokes Croft.

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