Bristol is widely known as one of the best cities in the UK when it comes to food and great restaurants, with new openings happening all the time.
But let’s not forget for all those great Bristol restaurants that have stood the test of time after decades and fed generations of Bristolians over the years.
This year, we’ve already lost two long-running Bristol restaurants - Vincenzo’s on Park Street closed after 52 years and La Grotta on Union Street served its last meals after 42 years - so we need to support these restaurant veterans as much as we do the shiny new openings.
Here are ten of the oldest restaurants in Bristol - and if we’ve missed any, do let us know by emailing [email protected]
1. Giuseppe’s, Baldwin Street - 72 years
Originally Marco’s, there has been a restaurant on the steps between Baldwin Street and St Nicholas Street since 1951. From 1994 until 2022, it was owned by Giuseppe Calcagno, who sold to new owners last year - but the man whose name is above the door still works occasional shifts as a waiter now.
2. La Campagnuola, Zetland Road - 43 years
Started by Sicilian chef Filippo Spitali in 1980, this traditional Italian trattoria is now run by his children, Vincenzo and Mariangela.
3. The Raj Restaurant, King Street - 42 years
The Raj Restaurant was originally established by Feroze Ahmed in 1981. Mr Ahmed originally ran Bristol’s first ever Indian restaurant - the Taj Mahal in Stokes Croft. Since his death in 2000, The Raj has been run by his son, Hassan.
4. Don Giovanni’s, Temple Gate - 41 years
Run by chef Andrew Firetto since 1982, Don Giovanni’s Italian restaurant opposite Temple Meads is still busy although it’s the last remaining business open on a site earmarked for around 400 flats so its long-term future is uncertain at the moment.