Best New Restaurants In Bristol: Hot Openings For 2025

It's no secret that Bristol is a hotspot for amazing food, from its buzzing markets full of independent traders to luxurious fine dining spots. And the culinary scene is always changing, thanks to a plethora of new venues popping up on a regular basis.

You'll find everything from sleek wine bars to affordable chicken wing vendors and scrumptious burger joints coming to these streets in 2025. And if you want to be one of the first to visit them, then check out our guide to the best new restaurants Bristol has to offer right here.

Best New Bristol Restaurants Opening In 2025/2026

1. Palomo Lounge

  • Opening: November 2025
  • Location: Savages Wood Road, Bradley Stoke, BS32 8BS
  • Why we recommend: this place is great for families and groups of friends alike, with a huge menu of affordable plates to suit all tastes - we try something new every time

With more than 250 sites across the country, the Lounge brand of eateries ties together the best parts of a pub, cafe and restaurant all in one. Palomo Lounge is their newest venture, taking over the former site of Harvester in Bristol's Willow Brook Centre.

This will be open all day long, offering food and drink for all ages - complete with vegan and gluten-free menus. Expect unique, laid-back and colourful interiors, as well as affordable prices. While the menu has not yet been released, their other venues serve everything from chipotle beef brisket burritos to roasted pepper flatbreads and Korean fried chicken burgers, as well as lots of small plates.

Small plates at Palomo Lounge Bristol.

Bristol's newest Lounge venue promises family-friendly eats throughout the day.

2. BOXHALL

  • Opening: date TBC
  • Location: Welsh Back Harbour, BS1 4SB
  • Why we recommend: there are so many different options for food here that it's impossible to get bored, and the entertainment is great too

There's been much anticipation about this one, as BOXHALL has been in the works for a number of years now. It's currently under construction and set to open its doors in 2025, with an exact date yet to be revealed. Brought to you by the brains behind London's BOXPARK, this concept will feature food, drinks and music under one roof.

They're currently in the process of sourcing some of the city's top independent food traders to fill their seven kitchens. There'll also be a weekly programme of free events, designed to showcase the best of Bristol's music scene.

Someone making pizza at BOXHALL Bristol.

You'll find it all at BOXHALL Bristol.

3. Flat Iron

  • Opening: early 2026
  • Location: 30 Clare Street, Bristol, BS1 1YH
  • Why we recommend: Flat Iron are known for their affordable steak, and with one cut cooked to perfection you can't go wrong on their menu

Flat Iron is expanding its regional presence with a new opening in Bristol's historic Old City. Set to launch in early 2026, this 100-cover restaurant on Clare Street will offer the brand's signature flat iron steak, sourced from the feather blade, alongside a rotating selection of specials including wagyu and a chilli cheeseburger made with beef from Flat Iron's own herd in Thirsk, Yorkshire.

Accompanying the steaks are indulgent sides such as beef dripping chips, creamed spinach, truffled macaroni cheese, and crispy bone marrow garlic mash. The drinks menu features a curated selection of wines, including Flat Iron's own Malbec, blended by the team from vineyards in the Limoux region of southern France's Languedoc. This addition brings Flat Iron's portfolio to 20 restaurants, with five now located outside of London, further solidifying its commitment to providing remarkable steak experiences across the UK.

Flat Iron steak.

Look forward to signature steaks from Flat Iron. 

Best New Bristol Restaurants Already Opened In 2025

1. Frankie's

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Kitchen by Kask, 36 North Street, Southville, BS3 1HW
  • Why we recommend: this is somewhere that offers 100% gluten-free food without compromising on quality, and we love the family feel to the venue

After two successful pop-ups last year, Frankie's has opened a permanent site at Kitchen by Kask on North Street. Run by former MasterChef contestant Adam Ball, this fried chicken and waffles restaurant is cooking up weekend brunches and dinners, with delicious toppings including hot honey, Buffalo blue cheese sauce and a maple glaze.

All their food is 100% gluten-free and safe for coeliacs, originally created for Ball's wife who is gluten intolerant. As for drinks, expect a great range of local beer, natural wine and American whiskey.

Collage of chef Adam Ball and chicken and waffles at Frankie's Bristol.

Gluten-free diners have to try this place.

2. Six By Nico

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Quakers Friars, Broadmead, BS1 3BZ
  • Why we recommend: the menu changes every six weeks, so we always want to keep coming back to try their exciting new dishes

Boasting 11 different locations across the country, from Edinburgh to Manchester and LondonSix By Nico is the acclaimed restaurant by chef Nico Simone. Their unique concept sees a new, six-course tasting menu every six weeks, with previous themed having included the Mad Hatter's tea party and a take on the classic British fish and chips.

Since their first eatery opened in 2017, they have been thinking up extraordinary dishes and meticulously crafted menus. Their Bristol venue opened in Quakers Friars in February, and you can expect all the usual quirky themes here.

Collage of two small plates at Six By Nico Bristol.

One of the most high-end new restaurants in Bristol city centre, Six By Nico is a must-visit.

3. Gurt Wings

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Wapping Wharf, Bristol, BS1 6ZA
  • Why we recommend: their chicken is award-winning, and we love how affordable it is too

A popular feature of Bristol's markets, Gurt Wings is an independent, West Country-based food truck business that opened their first permanent destination in February 2025. This is be part of the Wapping Wharf restaurant scene, next to Hog HQ.

As the name suggests, they're all about great quality, affordable chicken wings here. They've won a number of first and second place awards at Wing Fest in both London and Bristol, as well as in the British Street Food Awards. Choose from sauces like ranch sauce, baconnaise and blue cheese, served by themselves for as little as £8, or in a meal from £10.50.

Collage of a man holding wings and a box of wings and tater tots at Gurt Wings Bristol.

This food truck is set to become an affordable new restaurant in Bristol.

4. The Key Cafe

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Gloucester Road, Bishopston, BS7 8PS
  • Why we recommend: this venue does good for the community as well as serving great food - how often do you see that?

Promising great food for a good cause, The Key Cafe is set to take over a disused Ministry of Justice building on Gloucester Road, just outside HMP Bristol. The not-for-profit project is designed to act as a bridge between prison and employment, hiring staff who have recently been released from prison, after a strict risk assessment process, aiming to reduce reoffending rates. 

They'll have four ex-offenders working at a time, on a three to six-month basis, helping to provide opportunities for as many people as possible. You can expect all the cafe classics here, as well as their signature 'jail jars' - jars of jam made by prisoners.

Jar of jam made by prisoners at Key Cafe Bristol.

Enjoy great food for a good cause.

5. Jamaya

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Millennium Promenade, BS1 5SZ
  • Why we recommend: they offer a real taste of the Caribbean with a gourmet twist - we particularly love the jerk chicken skewers

Following the success of their sites in Birmingham and Solihull, Jamaya have brought their beloved Caribbean cuisine to Millennium Promenade. The independent restaurant claims to serve the UK’s first gourmet Jamaican fried chicken, using authentic flavours and techniques.

Their menus feature the likes of jerk chicken skewers, Buffalo wings, fried plantain wraps and more. They also offer bottomless brunches every single day, as well as a Jamaican twist on Sunday roast.

Collage of Caribbean spiced rum, chicken wings and side dishes at Jamaya Bristol.

The chicken here is jam-azing.

6. Prime By Pasture

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: St Thomas Street, BS1 6ZD
  • Why we recommend: sustainability is a priority here, so you can feel good while you eat, and they've got the awards to show it

With two existing locations in Bristol, alongside others in Cardiff and Birmingham, Pasture is a celebration of great quality beef and fire-cooking. The original venue was opened in 2018, by Chef-Owner Sam Elliott, with a vision of creating a delicious dining experience that supports local suppliers and ethical practices in all aspects of the business.

Prime By Pasture is a new concept from the group: a burger restaurant, butchery, deli and cookery school all in one. This can be found in Recliffe, close to their very first site. They're committed to sustainability, sourcing much of their produce from the nearby Buttercliffe farm. As a result they've been awarded three stars by the Sustainable Restaurant Association, the highest rating in the Food Made Good Standard.

Interiors at Pasture Bristol's existing restaurant.

Pasture's existing venues give us an idea of what the restaurant might look like.

7. The Pancake Man

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Wapping Wharf, Bristol, BS1 6ZA
  • Why we recommend: this is our go-to for that sweet treat fix, and they cater to all dietary requirements too

You may have seen The Pancake Man trading at local markets around Bristol, and 2025 is the year that they finally secured a permanent location in Wapping Wharf. Their Canadian-style pancakes are both gluten and lactose-free, making for a tasty treat that everyone can enjoy.

Their toppings range from white chocolate and strawberry to whipped cream and marshmallows, and they also serve fried chicken with maple syrup. The drinks are pretty impressive too, including scrumptious salted caramel, hazelnut or creme brulee frappes.

Collage of a milkshake and strawberry chocolate pancakes at The Pancake Man Bristol.

This one's for those of you with a sweet tooth.

8. RAGU

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Wapping Wharf, BS3
  • Why we recommend: these guys promise Michelin-quality cooking with the finest ingredients, and it's a great place to share a meal with friends

Mark and Karen Chapman, the acclaimed owners of the Michelin-rated Cor in Bristol, recently opened a second restaurant in Wapping Wharf this April. RAGU celebrates Italian culture and cuisine with a focus on sharing plates.

Expect dishes crafted with the finest ingredients, served simply but with love - perfect for a solo aperitif, a family feast, or even just a slice of their renowned tiramisu. While reservations are encouraged, walk-ins are always welcomed. Since its debut in October 2022, Cor has earned rave reviews and recognition, including a Bib Gourmand from Michelin, and RAGU is set to continue the couple’s commitment to exceptional food and hospitality in a welcoming atmosphere.

Small plates at Luca in Whapping Wharf.

Look forward to delicious, high-quality small plates.

9. Lapin

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: Unit 14, Cargo 2, Museum Street, BS1 6ZA
  • Why we recommend: the food here is perfectly paired with wine, and we love that the majority of their ingredients are locally sourced

Lapin, a fresh addition to Bristol’s Wapping Wharf, is bringing a modern twist to classic French dining. From the team behind Bank Bristol, this exciting new spot will focus on bold yet refined flavours, crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Inspired by the timeless charm of French bistros and brasseries, Lapin will provide a relaxed, convivial dining experience, perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated yet laid-back atmosphere.

The wine list will be a standout feature, highlighting a mix of French household names and hidden gems, all available by the glass. The team behind Lapin is pouring their passion into this venture, making it a must-visit for wine lovers and foodies alike. Opening this spring, it’s sure to become a go-to spot for modern French cuisine in the heart of Bristol.

Cheese and wine from Lapin in Bristol.

Lapin is bringing fine French dining to Bristol.

10. Rudy's Pizza Napoletana

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: 36 Baldwin Street, BS1 1NR
  • Why we recommend: their pizza is loved all over the UK, and for good reason - the flavours are sensational

Rudy's Pizza is taking the country by storm, having first opened in Manchester in 2015, and they opened their 34th location in Bristol this July. This has taken over the empty Royal Bank of Scotland branch on Baldwin Street, which has been vacant since 2021, injecting some new life onto the road.

The restaurant can accommodate 120 guests inside, with outdoor seating available too. As for the food, expect fresh dough made daily, using 24-hour fermented 00 Caputo flour - finished with Fior di Latte mozzarella and a whole load of other mouthwatering toppings.

Collage of a margherita pizza and cheesy garlic bread at Rudy's Pizza Napoletana.

Indulge in fresh slices at Rudy's.

11. Tapps Wine Bar

  • Opening: now open
  • Location: 87 Whiteladies Road, Clifton, BS8 2NT
  • Why we recommend: the welcoming atmosphere paired with great wine makes for a top evening out, and we'd advise visiting at the weekend for live DJs

Brought to you by the landlords of the Shakespeare in Redland, Neil and Olivia Greenwood, Tapps Wine Bar is a brand new venture on Whiteladies Road. It's can be found on the former site of restaurant Thai Classic.

They're promising top quality drinks, food and music, with a friendly atmosphere. Think DJ sets on weekends and wine tasting evenings if you're after a fun night out, or simply come along and enjoy tasty plates like kimchi fries and bavette steak with chimichurri, alongside a glass or two.

Collage of different wines at Tapps Wine Bar Bristol.

This friendly new Whiteladies Road haunt is guaranteeing great wines.

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