Bristol food: The 10 best restaurants in the city, according to Google reviews

Although we’re all trying to save pennies in 2023, venturing out to enjoy delicious food you haven’t had to cook yourself every now and again is a must. Bristol’s food scene is, as ever, one of the best in the country - and no matter where you live in the city, you usually don’t have to look far to find a tasty meal.

Perhaps you’re a seasoned foodie into fine dining, tasting menus and wine flights, or prefer something more laid back like authentic pizza and pasta in a cosy setting. Whether you enjoy munching on gyozas al fresco, want to cook your steak yourself on a hot stone or are looking for somewhere dog-friendly to bring your pet along for date night, there’s a restaurant gem to suit everyone in Bristol.

Here are the 10 best restaurants in the city at the moment, according to Google reviews.

Caper and Cure

About: Chic restaurant creating adventurous dishes with meat, fish and veggies, plus cocktails and wine

Where: 108A Stokes Croft, Cotham, Bristol BS1 3RU

Google rating: 4.9

What customers are saying: “Had a wonderful lunch here. Absolutely delicious food from an interesting and varied menu. Great service, just the right amount of attention without being intrusive. Lovely atmosphere. Will definitely return.”

Casa Bristol

About: Sophisticated restaurant offering a single menu consisting of multiple courses of seasonal dishes

Where: 8 The General, Lower Guinea Street, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6FU

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “The food, every plate, was cooked to a very high level. When did you last salivate over cabbage? Well, I did! From beautifully cooked hake in a pesto sauce to fantastic mushroom appetisers and much more. Thank you for the most beautiful meal.”

Tare

About: Harbourside restaurant in a converted shipping container, featuring small plates and drinks

Where: 14 Museum Street, Wapping Wharf, Bristol BS1 6ZA

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “I’d heard that Tare was one of the best value restaurants for fine dining in Bristol, but I think that sells the restaurant short. It’s a gem in its own right and needs no context to be appreciated. I thought that the wine pairings were pretty inspired and the food was not only beautiful but delicious as well.”

Mugshot

About: Warm, 1920s-themed British steakhouse with wood panelling serving chops, seafood, wine and cocktails

Where: 18 St Nicholas Street, Bristol BS1 1UB

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “This is without question the best steak restaurant we’ve been to in the UK. We’ve done a lot of the classic London spots, but we had to travel to Bristol for this experience. The hot lava stone concept is great and the staff were very friendly and welcoming as they talked you through it. Try the honey butter, it’s incredible. Go here.”

The Chef’s Table

About: Cosy eatery offering refined plates and tasting menus, plus views towards Clifton Suspension Bridge

Where: 1a Avon Crescent, Bristol BS1 6XQ

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “Brilliant tasting menu accompanied by perfectly matched wine flight. Fantastic service, great atmosphere and the chefs made a point of coming over to our table for a chat. A perfect evening. We will be back.”

Eatchu

About: Small, cosy operation with limited seating offering shareable Japanese gyoza & dipping sauces

Where: The Old Mess Room, Exchange Avenue, Bristol BS1 1JQ

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “Absolutely magnificent. Delightful dumplings with skillfully crafted, balanced and robust fillings. Fast service, well priced, fresh and authentic food, great location - what more can you ask for? Not to be missed!”

Moltobuono!59

About: Warm bi-level venue serving up traditional Italian cuisine including pizzas, pastas and vegan options

Where: 59 Park Street, Bristol BS1 5NU

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “This place is amazing! The real deal - lots of Italian customers which is always a great sign, and they know what’s up. Delicious food, a wonderful, lively buzz, the nicest staff and management - it’s even dog friendly! And they took such amazing care and attention of my doggo, even on a busy night.”

Muiño

About: Intimate, family-run spot for brunch & Galician-inspired tapas, plus wine, beer and cocktails

Where: 32 Cotham Hill, Redland, Bristol BS6 6LA

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “Easily our best meal in Bristol by a mile. Attentive service, fun vibe, and food to die for. The chargrilled sole, chicken thigh skewers, and grilled prawns were highlights, but nothing disappointed. Kudos to the staff who clearly love what they do. Estupendo!”

Pasture

About: Upscale steakhouse fare with craft cocktails and full bar in an elevated mid-century-inspired space

Where: 2 Portwall Lane, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6NB

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “Best steak restaurant I’ve been to in the UK, with the nicest staff too. Coming from a beef farmer family I can be quite fussy about my meat but these guys take it to another level. I’d recommend the rib croquettes, mussels and pork belly for starters, they are all delicious. The meat is always cooked perfectly and the sides are to die for - got to have the truffle chips.”

La Panza

About: Laid-back cafe serving Italian dishes in a cosy, rustic space that has a terrace

Where: La Panza, Redcliffe Way, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6NL

Google rating: 4.8

What customers are saying: “Fantastic Italian restaurant serving up modern, creative spins on traditional Italian dishes, La Panza (the belly) is a treat for that very thing. With a very talented chef and attentive team, you can enjoy a wide range of delicious dishes served in a quirky and actually quite historic venue. This is a place you must eat at, whether you’re new to the city or a local, seasoned foodie. We can’t wait to return to try the rest of the menu.”