The Best Restaurants in the UK Right Now

What constitutes the best restaurants in the UK? For us, they have to be destinations worth traveling to—these are the spots where you would take a train, road trip, or even a boat, often requiring weeks or even months for a reservation. While attaining a Michelin star is impressive, it is not a necessity for a restaurant to make this coveted list. Many establishments offer exquisite dining at various price points, proving that exceptional culinary experiences exist for all budgets.

Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, Oxfordshire

Established in 1984, Le Manoir continues to thrive under the direction of chef Raymond Blanc. Renowned for its commitment to sustainable cooking, this two-Michelin-star establishment offers a stunning setting overlooking lush gardens and vegetable patches that supply ingredients for its seven-course tasting menu. Seasonal delights may include Scottish langoustine, truffle risotto, and wagyu beef. A stay at the hotel transforms dinner into a weekend retreat, with unique rooms inspired by Blanc’s travels and a hearty breakfast to delight guests.

Address: Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Church Road, Great Milton, Oxford OX44 7PD

Opheem, Birmingham

Birmingham’s culinary scene is evolving, with Opheem emerging as a standout. Established by Aktar Islam, this Michelin-starred restaurant features innovative tasting menus that explore the diverse cuisines of the Indian subcontinent. Diners can expect imaginative dishes that showcase local ingredients, such as Bengali-inspired scallops paired with apple and daikon. Opheem invites guests to expand their culinary horizons while enjoying a memorable dining experience.

Address: Opheem, 65 Summer Row, Birmingham B3 1JJ

The Black Swan at Oldstead, York

Under the guidance of Tommy Banks, who earned a Michelin star at just 34, The Black Swan is a family-run establishment committed to excellence. The 12-course tasting menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal ingredients from their kitchen garden. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted, featuring local ingredients transformed into sophisticated flavors, making it a perfect spot for a gastronomic getaway.

Address: The Black Swan at Oldstead, Oldstead, York YO61 4BL

Erst, Manchester

Erst is a natural wine bar and restaurant in Manchester that strikes a balance between exceptional cuisine and approachable dining. The menu offers delightful dishes crafted from seasonal ingredients. Diners can enjoy simple yet elevated flavors, such as flatbreads and fresh seafood, all complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list that highlights natural options without overwhelming guests.

Address: Erst, 9 Murray St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6HS

SY23, Aberystwyth

SY23 has placed Aberystwyth on the culinary map after winning the town’s first Michelin star. The restaurant emphasizes foraged and locally sourced ingredients across its ten-course tasting menu. With a focus on seafood from the local area, dishes often highlight fresh aquatic finds, paired with seasonal delights that inspire and captivate diners.

Address: SY23, 2 Pier St, Aberystwyth SY23 2LJ

Inver, Loch Fyne

Nestled on the banks of Loch Fyne, Inver presents a picturesque dining experience complemented by an exceptional tasting menu. The restaurant features locally sourced produce paired with natural wines, capturing the flavors of the region. With breathtaking views and a focus on sustainability, Inver stands out as a romantic destination for food lovers.

Address: Inver, Cairndow PA27 8BU

Ynyshir, Machynlleth

Ynyshir offers an extraordinary culinary journey with its unique Welsh take on kaiseki dining. Head chef Gareth Ward presents an enchanting 18-course meal, often prepared with locally foraged ingredients. Each dish tells a story, spotlighting the flavors and culture of Mid Wales in a contemporary format that engages all the senses.

Address: Ynyshir Restaurant and Rooms, Eglwys Fach, Machynlleth SY20 8TA

Linden Stores, Cheshire

Linden Stores is a cozy, inviting restaurant that champions local produce with a casual yet refined approach. Seasonal ingredients shine in dishes infused with creative flair, making it a beloved neighborhood spot for food enthusiasts. This is a perfect destination to enjoy quality dining without the fuss.

Address: Linden Stores, 3 Shropshire Street, Audlem, Crewe CW3 0AE

Lunar, Staffordshire

Lunar is a remarkable dining experience situated on the Wedgwood estate. It seamlessly integrates local produce into Asian-inspired dishes, showcasing a rich palette of flavors. The striking atmosphere combined with innovative culinary creations makes this restaurant a must-visit for those exploring Staffordshire.

Address: Lunar, Lunar World of Wedgwood, Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent ST12 9ER

Bridge Arms, Kent

Known for creating whimsical yet grounded dishes, the Bridge Arms takes full advantage of its local ingredients to offer a truly unique dining experience. The menu features imaginative interpretations of traditional dishes with a modern advantage, set within a delightful pub atmosphere that invites guests to linger and savor each bite.

Address: The Bridge Arms, 53 High Street, Bridge, Canterbury CT4 5LA

Holm, Somerset

Holm combines an innovative restaurant concept in South Somerset with a workspace and community garden to create a holistic dining environment. The menu is anchored in seasonal produce sourced from local farms, allowing dishes to showcase the essence of their ingredients, all served in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Address: Holm, 28 St James’s Street, South Petherton TA13 5BW

Pensons, Worcestershire

Pensons emphasizes sustainability and local collaboration, utilizing ingredients sourced from the surrounding area. Chef Chris Simpson’s Green Michelin Star establishment focuses on fresh, flavorful dishes that speak to the region’s agricultural heritage while ensuring a delightful dining experience with every visit.

Address: Pensons, Pensons Yard, Tenbury Wells WR15 8RT

Annwn, Pembrokeshire

After extensive culinary experience, Matt Powell opened Annwn, a restaurant dedicated to showcasing Pembrokeshire’s natural bounty. With a menu deeply inspired by seasonal foraging and local ingredients, guests can enjoy inventive dishes that highlight the stunning coastal landscape.

Address: Annwn, 1 Market Square, Narberth, Pembrokeshire SA67 7AU

Ugly Butterfly, Cornwall

Ugly Butterfly stands out for its commitment to sustainability, utilizing discarded ingredients to create innovative, flavorful dishes. Chef Adam Handling’s approach emphasizes the beauty of what is often overlooked, crafting a menu that is as delightful as the breathtaking seaside views it accompanies.

Address: Ugly Butterfly Restaurant and Bar Cornwall, Carbis Bay Estate, Carbis Bay, Saint Ives TR26 2NP

Pine, Northumberland

Pine’s rise to Michelin-star status is a testament to its dedication to locally sourced ingredients and culinary innovation. The restaurant offers a tasting menu that celebrates the flavors of Northumberland through thoughtfully prepared dishes that honor traditional elements with a modern twist.

Address: Pine, Vallum Farm, Military Road, East Wallhouses, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18 0LL

Killiecrankie House, Perthshire

With a picturesque setting in Pitlochry, Killiecrankie House combines modern elegance with traditional Scottish cuisine. Tom and Matilda Tsappis serve an exciting tasting menu that creatively reinterprets local flavors and ingredients, providing guests with a memorable dining experience amidst stunning Highland vistas.

Address: Killiecrankie House, Killiecrankie House, Pitlochry PH16 5LG

Robin Wylde and Lilac, Dorset

In the charming seaside town of Lyme Regis, Robin Wylde presents exquisite tasting menus derived from the bountiful coastal landscape. Coupled with an informal wine bar, Lilac, this dining establishment allows guests to explore seasonal flavors in a cozy yet vibrant ambiance, making it perfect for food enthusiasts.

Address: Robin Wylde, Silver Street, Lyme Regis DT7 3HR; Lilac, 57-58 Broad Street, Lyme Regis, Dorset, DT7 3QF

L’Enclume, Cumbria

Located in the village of Cartmel, L’Enclume offers an extraordinary culinary adventure. Chef Simon Rogan’s celebrated menus explore locally sourced ingredients, creating dishes that both thrill and captivate guests. The restaurant’s commitment to seasonality and creativity has earned it a stellar reputation within the gastronomic community.

Address: L’Enclume, Cavendish Street, Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands LA11 6QA