To us here at Dish Cult, a good BBQ restaurant needs to have a friendly, laid-back atmosphere, a comprehensive drinks menu and plenty of delicious, high-quality food. There’s nothing like the smell of a smoky BBQ to get our mouths watering, so we’ve curated a guide on what we deem to be Bristol’s best BBQ spots for food cooked in this fiery fashion. Think steak restaurants, gastropubs and grill specialists.
BBQ Restaurants In Bristol
Nestled in a former bank vault beneath Corn Street, The Ox exudes an air of hidden luxury. This underground steakhouse is a carnivore’s paradise, with a menu that showcases the best of local meats. The chargrilled pork chop, served with smoky BBQ beans, is a testament to its mastery of the grill. For those seeking a more indulgent experience, the hickory-smoked sticky ribs fall off the bone with a perfect balance of sweet and savoury. The dimly lit, intimate atmosphere makes The Ox ideal for date nights or special occasions.
Steak of the Art
- Unit 1 Balmoral House, Canons Way, Harbourside BS1 5LW
Part restaurant, part gallery, Steak of the Art offers a unique dining experience where culinary and visual arts collide. While steaks are the specialty, the BBQ offerings shouldn’t be overlooked. The spicy, juicy BBQ buffalo chicken wings are a real crowdpleaser – a dish that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate! The restaurant’s ever-changing art exhibitions provide a dynamic backdrop for your meal, making each visit a new experience.
Perched atop Colston Tower, Bambalan brings a Mediterranean flair to Bristol’s BBQ scene. The menu is a journey through sun-soaked flavours, with the spiced lamb cutlets being a standout. Served with giant couscous and a tangy pomegranate and honey dressing, it’s a dish that transports you to the shores of the Med! Don’t leave without trying the innovative dessert – BBQ pineapple paired with a refreshing chili and ginger sorbet. The restaurant’s expansive terrace offers stunning city views, perfect for al fresco dining on warm evenings.
Bare Grills
- 41 Triangle West, Clifton BS8 1ER
Near the top of Bristol’s historic Park Street, on the outskirts of Clifton, can be found Bare Grills. As the name suggests, these guys know their way around BBQ flavours and specialise in burgers and smoked meats. Take a seat and order a drink from the comprehensive menu, maybe even opt for a Hard Shake (the Jack Daniels Honey is a firm favourite).
Then, when you’re all settled, it’s time to get stuck in! If there’s two or three of you, we’d suggest going for the colossal BBQ Tower. It’s a veritable meat feast including mini versions of the Jack Mac and Bare Grill burgers alongside smoked ribs and brisket, pulled pork, chicken wings, corn, slaw, slider rolls, onion rings and skin-on fries – definitely worth a go.
Coppa Club
- 2-10 Regent Street, Clifton BS8 4HG
Situated in the heart of Clifton Village, Coppa Club offers a relaxed, all-day dining experience with a menu that caters to every mood. While not strictly a BBQ joint, its grilled dishes showcase a deft touch with flame and smoke. The laid-back, stylish interior and secluded garden makes it a versatile spot for everything from business lunches to lazy weekend brunches.
Artist Residence
- 28 Portland Square BS2 8SA
Housed in a former boot factory, Artist Residence brings a touch of eclectic charm to Bristol’s dining scene. The BBQ baby gem salad is refreshing and moreish complemented by creamy feta, sweet cherries, and crunchy pistachios. For a heartier option, the bavette steak with chimichurri sauce offers a perfect balance of flavour and texture. The hotel’s quirky, art-filled interiors provide a unique and chic backdrop for your meal.
The Inn on the Green
- Horfield BS7 0PA
This upscale pub offers lots in the way of BBQ grub. The Caribbean spiced jackfruit and corn fritters offer a delicious plant-based option, while the fried chicken wings with BBQ glaze and blue cheese dip satisfy classic cravings. The Inn’s friendly, relaxed vibe makes it a great spot for casual dining with friends or family. Make sure you leave room for one of the homemade desserts.
Turtle Bay
- 8 Broad Quay BS1 4DA
Bringing the flavours of the Caribbean to Bristol, Turtle Bay is a riot of colour, sound, and spice. The half rack of juicy BBQ ribs, served with jerk sausages, rice and peas, spiced fries and slaw, is a must-try. The Rum BBQ Ribs showcase the restaurant’s skill in melding traditional BBQ techniques with more daring flavours. With its lively atmosphere and potent rum cocktails, Turtle Bay is perfect for starting a night out in Bristol or enjoying a leisurely weekend lunch.
