I was recently asked for some restaurant recommendations for a celebratory dinner. The brief was something a bit more special than a gastro pub environment, but they didn’t need it to be a fine dining experience. I’ve been asked similar questions to this more than once, so I’ve compiled some of my favourite restaurants across Bristol, covering a range of different cuisines.

So whether you’ve got an occasion to celebrate, a special date night planned or loved ones visiting, one of the following eight restaurants could well be the spot for you:

• Muiño, Cotham – delicious elevated Mediterranean small plates. Particularly lovely on a warm summer evening when the windows are opened onto Cotham Hill.
• Snobby’s, Redland – one of many gems on Chandos Road, serving tasty Italian small plates and pizza in a cosy setting.

Muiño

• Sonny Stores, Southville – we actually visited their pop-up in Quakers Friars while they were having their usual home refurbished. So while I can’t tell you about their Southville location, I can tell you that their food is excellent. Every dish is creative, thoughtful and well executed.
• Little French, Westbury – French cuisine at its best from a charming neighbourhood restaurant. The owners also run Little Shop, a nearby café.

Little French

• Lido, Clifton – a stunning setting overlooking the open air pool and the food is excellent. We paired a two hour swim session with dinner which I’d highly recommend.
• Little Hollows Pasta, Redland – serving arguably some of the best pasta in Bristol, if you walk past this restaurant during the day you’ll likely spot their pasta being freshly handmade in the window!

Little Hollows Pasta

• Kibou, Clifton – offers a fantastic sushi selection along with hot dishes, the tempura are particularly good.
• Bianchis, Montpelier – serving refined Italian cuisine, tucked away in Montpelier. The Bianchis group are behind several amazing Bristol restaurants including Pasta Ripiena, Cotto and Pazzo.

Kibou

Notable mentions also go to Poco Tapas, Riverstation, Under the Stars and Root which all serve really lovely food too.

I’d love to know if you’ve got any other special restaurants you’d add to this list!

Alexa

P.S If you enjoyed reading this, why not take a look at my 2024 Bristol Food Highlights.

Header photo: Muiño