The golden-hued Georgian city of Bath is renowned for its elegant neoclassical Palladian architecture, attracting visitors year-round. However, the aesthetic charm of the city can sometimes overshadow its vibrant food scene, which is often unfairly compared to tourist hotspots.
Bath boasts a variety of culinary hotspots that can rival some of the best restaurants across the UK. This is largely due to its proximity to some of the nation’s most praised food producers located in nearby Somerset and Wiltshire. The access to fresh, local ingredients enables Bath’s independent restaurants to highlight the best of their offerings.
Strolling through Bath’s walkable city center, you will find numerous restaurants nestled in Georgian townhouses and former greenhouses, along with a few hidden gems just beyond the city limits that are equally worth the visit.
Oak
Best for: Vegetarian food
Dish to order: Middleground carrots with pine nuts and harissa
This unassuming restaurant features unique yet cohesive interior design, with a menu focused entirely on vegetarian dishes that celebrate seasonal ingredients. Notable offerings include smoked pine nut arancini and nettle ricotta agnolotti. Oak has earned a Green Michelin star for its commitment to sustainability, creating dishes from its own eco garden.
Address: Oak, 2 North Parade Passage, Bath BA1 1NX
Landrace Upstairs
Best for: Homemade pasta
Dish to order: Cantabrian boquerones with olive oil and gremolata
Housed above the popular Landrace Bakery, this bistro is dedicated to regenerative farming and utilizes specialty grains in its creative dishes. Try the cheddar curd fritters or local ciders to accompany your meal. Don’t forget to explore the pantry shop for gourmet pantry staples.
Address: Landrace Upstairs, 61 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BN
Beckford Canteen
Best for: Elevated dinner with friends
Best dish to order: Lamb rump with salsa verde and wild garlic
This restaurant, located in a former Georgian greenhouse, is known for its vibrant interiors and seasonal menu curated by local chef Joe Lacy. The concise menu features locally inspired dishes that emphasize fresh, regional produce — a must-visit for food enthusiasts.
Address: Beckford Canteen, 11-12 Bartlett St, Bath BA1 2QZ
Montagu’s Mews
Best for: High-end dining
Dish to order: Roasted halibut with lardo, celeriac, and cep velouté
Located in the prestigious Royal Crescent Hotel, this contemporary fine dining restaurant opened in 2023 and showcases beautifully crafted dishes by head chef Martin Blake. The elegant setting adds to the fine dining experience, perfect for special occasions.
Address: Montagu’s Mews, 16 Royal Crescent, Bath BA1 2LS
Walcot House
Best for: Long lazy lunches
Dish to order: Cornish sole with capers and lemon
With a charming Parisian bistro atmosphere, Walcot House is ideal for leisurely meals. The menu is crafted to accommodate various tastes, with generous portions meant for sharing, providing a delightful dining experience.
Address: 90B Walcot St, Bath BA1 5BG
Iford Manor
Best for: Relaxed lunch in the sun
Dish to order: Tom the farmer’s lamb
Dining at Iford Manor is a treat, with much of the produce sourced from its gardens. Expect visually stunning plates and a relaxed atmosphere — perfect for a sunny lunch. The estate is noted for its romantic wisteria display in spring.
Address: Iford Manor, nr. Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire BA15 2BA
Elder
Best for: Game meat
Dish to order: Wild wood pigeon tart with streaky bacon
Offering a unique menu that emphasizes game meat and seasonal ingredients, Elder is a cozy spot that doesn’t feel like a hotel restaurant. Chef Mike Robinson’s expertise shines in every dish, making it a destination for those seeking hearty, flavorful meals.
Address: The Elder, 2-8 South Parade, Bath BA2 4AB
Walled Garden Restaurant
Best for: Views over an English Garden
Dish to order: Day boat fish with charred lemon
With its expansive glass design, the Walled Garden Restaurant at Lucknam Park is not only about delicious food but also scenic dining. Head chef Alex Green prepares everything seasonally, complementing the vibrant setting with fresh and inventive dishes.
Address: Lucknam Park, Colerne, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 8AZ
Beckford Bottle Shop
Best for: Small plates and wine
Dish to order: Bath chaps
A charming boutique wine shop with a small eatery, Beckford Bottle Shop serves delightful small plates that pair perfectly with its extensive wine list. It’s a relaxing spot for wine lovers and culinary adventurers alike.
Address: Beckford Bottle Shop, 5-8 Saville Row, Bath BA1 2QP
Robun
Best for: Japanese food cooked on the robata
Dish to order: Wagyu beef tataki
Famed for its robata grilling technique, Robun offers an authentic Japanese dining experience featuring fresh ingredients and traditional recipes. The diverse menu ensures that there is something for every taste.
Address: Robun, 4 Princes Buildings, George St, Bath BA1 2ED
Olive Tree
Best for: Michelin-star dining
Dish to order: Isle of Skye langoustines with asparagus and jalapeno
As Bath’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, Olive Tree combines culinary expertise with a historic atmosphere. The creative menu offers a variety of dining options, ensuring a memorable experience for all patrons.
Address: Olive Tree, Queensberry Hotel, 4-7 Russell St, Bath BA1 2QF
Midford Castle
Best for: Rustic Asian-inspired dining
Dish to order: Sunday roast
A hidden gem just outside Bath, Midford Castle features a menu that evolves with seasonal produce. This restaurant is known for its relaxed atmosphere and flavorful, hearty dishes, making it perfect for casual dining.
Address: Castle Farm, Midford Rd, Bath BA2 7PU
The Scallop Shell
Best for: Guilt-free fish and chips
Dish to order: The sharing shellfish plate
Focusing on quality, fresh seafood, The Scallop Shell offers a refreshing take on traditional fish and chips. Diners can enjoy an array of seafood options with a focus on sustainability and local sourcing.
Address: The Scallop Shell, 22 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AY
Clayton’s Kitchen
Best for: A crowd-pleasing lunch
Dish to order: Godminster Cheddar bonbons with spiced-apple purée
Located on busy George Street, Clayton’s Kitchen offers a relaxed dining ambiance with a menu crafted from seasonal ingredients. The chef’s diverse offerings create an enjoyable experience for both casual diners and food enthusiasts.
Address: Clayton’s Kitchen, 15A George St, Bath BA1 2EN
Noya’s Kitchen
Best for: A lunch to remember
Dish to order: Bun cha noodles with roast pork belly and pork patties
With its roots in Vietnamese culture, Noya’s Kitchen presents a simplified menu that celebrates authentic flavors. This café is renowned for its warm atmosphere and vibrant dishes, making it a lunch spot to remember.
Address: Noya’s Kitchen, 7 St James’s Parade, Bath BA1 1UL
Corkage
Best for: Wine buffs
Dish to order: Devon crab with celeriac remoulade
Corkage is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts, offering an impressive selection served alongside a menu of seasonal small plates. The casual setting encourages exploration and enjoyment of their carefully curated offerings.
Address: Corkage, 132 Walcot Street, Bath BA1 5BG and 5 Chapel Row, Bath BA1 1HN
The Bath Priory
Best for: Old-school charm
Dish to order: Beef tartare, nasturtium, and caviar
Known for its traditional elegance, The Bath Priory maintains an atmosphere of sophistication while offering a menu that showcases modern culinary trends. Be prepared for an indulgent experience combining charm and creativity.
Address: The Bath Priory, Weston Road, Bath BA1 2XT
