Up there with the coolest city's in the UK, Bristol is never one to disappoint, especially when it comes to its dining scene. Whether you're looking for a memorable date night spot or somewhere a little different to catch up with mates, you'll find it here. Just see for yourself with our pick of the best poolside eateries, Mexican cantinas, bottomless burger joints and other quirky restaurants in Bristol that are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Last edited by Scarlett Welch
Last updated on 21st October 2025
On the hunt for a great quality Mexican restaurant at an affordable price? Then head to El Diablo, a vibrant destination just outside the city centre that's filled with bold, colourful decor - including patterned tiles and quirky ornaments.
Sip refreshing margaritas from the bar, paired with a range of delicious street food made from fresh ingredients. We're talking beef brisket birria tacos, prawn ceviche tostadas, pork carnitas nachos and much more.
Located in a chic refurbished warehouse along the Harbourside is The Bristol Stable, a cider-loving pizzeria. The open kitchen knocks out a range of signature sourdough slices, with toppings such as slow-roasted lamb shoulder, Sriracha chicken and BBQ jackfruit.
Inspired by a mythical professor, The Lost and Found is chock full of gorgeous design features as industrial meets fauna. Add this spot to your list of places to try if you fancy stunning cocktails, grill plates, exsquisite brunch dishes and decor worthy of your Instagram.
Situated in Clifton, just outside the city centre, Giggling Squid is a stylish Thai restaurant that's perfect for groups of all sizes. The relaxed but sophisticated spot is filled with plush booth seating, large mirrors and gorgeous floral decor, creating an Instagrammable look.
There's a huge menu to choose from, showcasing the very best of Thai cuisine. Think chicken and prawn drunken noodles, vegetable green curry, caramelised pork belly and so much more, washed down with killer cocktails.
Can't wait for your next quirky dining experience? Then use our new search engine so you can choose between 1000s of venues all across the UK. To add to that, you'll earn rewards every time you book through DesignMyNight, which can be spent on cool events.
Can't decide between an Indian or Chinese for dinner? Rock Salt is offering you the best of both at their innovative Cotham Hill restaurant. Alternate between spring rolls and samosas, stir fries and curries whilst sipping on rose negronis, cinnamon brambles and other signature cocktails
Hidden inside a boutique hotel, The Old Boot Factory is an unusual eatery. Whilst the all-day menu may consist of traditional bites, the interiors are anything but. Think antique furniture, quirky and colourful artwork, as well as lovingly-restored original decorative features.
There's quirky restaurants in Bristol and then there's downright wacky; Steak of the Art is the latter, combining delicious food with an actual art gallery. This surreal dining experience is offering you the chance to sit surrounded by incredible pieces or even perch on some beautifully-crafted furniture as you tuck into your fare.
Take a step back in time to the roaring twenties with a trip to this Old City steakhouse. Kitted out with plush booths, wooden walls and chandeliers, Mugshot also brings the theatrics with their locally-sourced cuts served on sizzling hot stones.
For a unique night out on the water, Under the Stars on Bristol's Harbourside is the place to be. A cosy, intimate bar and kitchen housed on a restored cargo ship, this spot has been serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes and crafted cocktails since 2010.
Whether you're here for a casual drink with friends or a romantic dinner under a canopy of fairy lights, the atmosphere is always warm and welcoming. With tapas to share, delicious pizzas, and a regularly rotating lineup of live music, Under the Stars is the ultimate escape right in the heart of Bristol.
A restaurant, bar and live music venue all in one, The Canteen also boasts a beer garden and its own Banksy mural. Swing round the effortlessly cool Stokes Croft eatery for a night of live music, craft brews and tasty nosh from its ethically-sourced food menu, before dancing till the early hours to live DJ sets at the weekend.
From the location down to the plates, the fittingly named Lido is serving up some serious quirky vibes. With views over a swimming pool and an impressive menu of traditional dishes and wines, this award-winning restaurant is well worth a visit with your mates of for your next date night.
From popular pop-up to epic restaurant, Burger Theory is renowned for a belly-busting dinner. Head to the maestros for your patty fix or put your endurance to the test at one of their monthly Bottomless Burger Club evenings, offering two hours of unlimited sliders, wings, fries and sides alongside free-flowing booze.
