43 Best Restaurants In The UK

Fancy eating your way from Belfast to Windsor? We've got you covered. From Michelin Star haunts offering plates of lobster and steak tartare to alfresco escapes overlooking a breathtaking 26-acre lake, our country is home to the best-of-the-best in up-and-coming and well-known food scenes. Whether you're searching for a stunning anniversary spot or romantic date night den, we've put together a list of the best UK restaurants to book right now.

Last edited by Lauren Cole

Last updated on 18th July 2024




Northampton: The Church Bar & Restaurant

Noted as one of the best British restaurants around, The Church Restaurant & Bar serves a stunning selection of fresh seasonal dishes in a friendly, relaxed setting. The 12th-century church enchants both inside and out, decked out in fairy lights and candles that add a romantic glow. This gorgeous conversion offers fine dining at its most stylish and delicious, serving delights like juniper marinated pork tenderloin, lamb Provencal stewed with tomatoes, and a salted caramel hazelnut and chocolate tart topped with Cornish clotted cream. Pay a visit to the Grade II-listed venue and you'll have a quintessential pub lunch experience. 

London, Marlow & St Albans: Megan's

Christmas Bottomless Bubbles and 5 other offers

A stunning restaurant with locations in Marlow, London and St Alban's, Megan's is ideal for when you want lip-smacking brunches washed down with bottomless bubbles or fancy Mediterranean meals for lunch. Decked out in stunning fairy lights and plenty of flora, this Middle Eastern-inspired joint serves up dishes like open 'posh' lamb doner kebabs, chilli chicken shakshouka with piri piri, garlic yoghurt and flatbread, as well as crispy sea bass with greek orzo salad.

Birmingham: Brightsmith On The Water

If you have a penchant for riverside views, plush interiors and quirky cocktails, Brightsmith On The Water is a must-visit. Nestled within the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, this vibrant bar and restaurant slings out theatrical cocktails, delectable cuisine, and stunning views of the outdoor lakeside terrace. Inspired by the skilled artisans of the famed Jewellery Quarter, their menu showcases the region's finest offerings with unique and beautifully crafted dishes. We suggest nabbing the chilli king prawns or a plate of the salmon Scotch egg.

UK-Wide: Brewhouse & Kitchen

Whether you find yourself in Bedford, Poole, Southbourne or Cheltenham in the coming months, nationwide pint providers Brewhouse are on-hand to offer excellent beers, alongside a range of scoffing-ready plates, including burgers, classic pub mains and belly-busting Sunday roasts. We're talking goodies like 35-day aged grass-fed rib eye steaks, spicy BBQ pulled shiitake mushrooms and hot habanero honey chicken breast burgers.

Burford: Bull

A 16th century coaching inn complete with cosy, modern rooms decked out in earthy tones, Bull Burford is all about style and substance. Nestled in the heart of The Cotswolds, this intimate 18-bedroom hotel, lovingly restored from a Grade II-listed 15th-century inn, has an evident passion for local produce, culinary creativity, and warm hospitality. Their four distinct restaurants take you on a gastronomic journey that blends tradition with innovation. Hiro, their omakase restaurant, is no different - with an ex-Nobu head chef at the helm serving 10-courses of Japanese fare, ranging from sushi to snow crab tacosu and black miso cod. For something a bit different, venture to Wild, the outdoor kitchen and grill, dishing up a variety of seafood, meats, and grilled veggies. Or, bask on the open-air terrace, where the wood-fired oven delivers a rotating menu of street food delights — from smash burgers and curries to tacos and stir-fries.

Chislehurst: Bank House

On the hunt for restaurants in the UK? Established in 2019 by in 2019 by husband and wife duo Stuart and Cecilia Gillies, Bank House on High Street is a chic wine bar and eatery, which offers a selection of delicious bites made using local and international artisan produce - think crispy beef salads, pan-fried hake and pork belly. Plus, it boasts over 100 bottles of wine if you fancy a glass, ranging from organic, natural, and classic styles, along with an extensive range of English vino.

Cambridge: The Royal Oak

In the quaint Cambridgeshire village of Barrington, you'll find The Royal Oak fronting a stunning Tudor exterior and the best British grub, alongside alfresco dining across a beautiful garden. Perched by Europe's longest village green, this 16th-century pub and restaurant offers classic pub fare crafted from local, seasonal ingredients. Head down to indulge in dishes such as grilled swordfish steak, watermelon and whipped feta salad, as well as steamed mussels in a white wine sauce. Thirsty? Enjoy a selection of French wines from Languedoc-Roussillon and beyond, complemented by local real ales and cider sourced from nearby Orwell village. 

Cornwall: The Chapel Restaurant & Bar

When it comes to the best restaurants, The Chapel Restaurant & Bar has to be right up there. Located in the historic chapel of a former jail, this venue boasts high ceilings and ornate architectural details. Not only is this stunning space part of the famous Bodmin Jail Hotel, but it's also a bonafide beauty in its own right - including Sistine Chapel-inspired light shows at evening service. Here, executive chef Dane Watkins and his culinary team elevate local produce with a three-course set menu priced at £60, where you can indulge in dishes like hand-dived scallop with smoked mackerel mousse, roe emulsion, and sourdough croute or Cornish ruby red beef fillet and short rib with red wine jus.

UK: Tapas Revolution

Sprinkled all over the country, from Birmingham to Bath, Tapas Revolution serves up a mouthwatering menu of Spanish delights courtesy of celebrity chef Omar Allibhoy. Famous for its edgy and cool atmosphere, this eatery is firmly rounded off with an ample menu of lip-smacking, authentic Spanish dishes. Indulge in dishes like bacalao con piperrada (roasted cod with slow-cooked peppers and olives), the ever-popular patatas bravas smothered in spicy tomato sauce and garlicky aioli as well as a range of mouthwatering paellas. And for drinks? They're all about the bubbles, boasting a dedicated Cava Bar where you can sip on a wide selection of cava by the bottle or glass alongside their tasty Sangrias. One of the best chain restaurants in the UK? Without a doubt.

UK-Wide: Gaucho

Mouthwatering cuts of meat and gorgeous interior design make Gaucho top of our UK restaurant list. Steak lovers, flock to this hangout for a feast of prime Argentinian beef, offering the finest cuts ranging from classic rib-eyes and fillets to outstanding cuadril and lomo. Peruse the different types before picking your favourite, perhaps accompanied by crispy chips and peppercorn sauce. Not a meat fan? The menu also features options like scallop ceviche with mango and yellow pepper, shrimp causita starters, and a decadent dulce de leche tart for dessert. Boasting locations in Birmingham, Edinburgh and Newcastle, it makes for the best restaurant in the UK near you. And we haven't even got to the stunning wine list yet...

Bath: Edesia Restaurant Lounge Bar & Club

SET MENU TWO COURSES £18.95 | THREE COURSES £22.95 and 1 other offer

Found overlooking the Guildhall, Edesia Restaurant Lounge Bar & Club is a central spot that's blending a South American jungle-inspired look with Bath's glorious architecture. Expect menus covering 'land', 'sea' and 'soil', including arepas, empanadas, steaks, lemon sole tacos and more. This joint shines as a destination for authentic South American cuisine, celebrated for its dedication to dishes like rump cap steak with chimichurri sauce, seabass ceviche, and confit pork belly with apple purée. The stunning setting evokes the glamour of the 1920s, subtly nodding to the Great Gatsby.

Manchester: Australasia

Serving as one of the best restaurants is Australasia, who are slinging out sushi, pan-Asian dishes and some tantalising tipples. Bathed in the natural tones of the Pacific coastline, this spot brings a slice of modern Australian living to town. A subterranean gem in a chic, bright dining space filled with creams, whites, and driftwood accents, this venue slings out goodies like confit suckling pork belly curry, garlic spiced prawns with mango and lime sauce, as well as Japanese curried korokke. From snapping Instagram pics across the gorgeous setting to tucking into decadent desserts, it's a dining experience truly worthy of this list.

Marlow: Vaasu by Atul Kochhar

As one of the best restaurants in the UK offering Michelin worthy cuisine, chef Atul Kochhar is cooking up elegant Indian fare at sleek hangout Vassu. This North Indian gem, inspired by the flavours of Punjab, Delhi, and Rajasthan, showcases Michelin-starred chef Atul's passion for traditional Indian cuisine blended with locally sourced British produce. Diners can embark on a culinary journey through India's rich culture and flavours, with dishes like Awadhi chicken korma, Portuguese prawn curry, and saag gosht. You can also visit its sister site Sindhu, also in Marlow, and Hawkyns in Amersham.

UK-Wide: Mowgli

Mowgli knows how to nail comfort food in a breathtaking setting complete with swinging seats and fairy lights (these guys have sites in Cardiff, Liverpool, Birmingham and beyond). This cult Indian street food joint was cooked up by foodie extraordinaire Nisha Katona in Liverpool back in 2014 and has since gained widespread recognition throughout the UK. Here, you can tuck into a tasty selection of bites, from street-style bites and tasty tiffin boxes packed with meat, veg and plenty of carbs, to a flavour-packed fish curry. We're talkin' delicacies like gunpowder chicken poppers, creamy butter chicken, and Himalayan-style cheese on toast.

Bexley: Tanyard Lane Bar & Kitchen

Happy Hour and 2 other offers

Tanyard Lane Bar & Kitchen is a welcoming hangout serving up some of the finest food and drink in town. Sip on tasty cocktails and craft beer, but stick around for juicy burgers and hot dogs, alongside other smaller street food plates. You can expect delights like Korean BBQ sweetcorn ribs, jerk chicken skewers, and New Yorker burgers loaded with patty, salt beef, mustard mayo, and fried onions.

UK-Wide: Honest Burgers

Looking for best restaurants in the UK for lunch? Bringing iconic burgers, rosemary fries and chilled out interiors to Reading's city centre, Honest Burgers is the perfect place to satisfy all your cheat day cravings. With options for every diet, this is a great casual dining option for carnivores and vegans alike, serving up patties like grilled chicken breast with basil pesto, brown butter mustard mayo and rocket, smashed beef patty with American cheese, white onions and pickles, as well as Southern fried fritters with chipotle mayo and seasonal coleslaw. Not in town? Check out some of the sites like Bristol or Manchester if you're on the hunt for other locations.

Edinburgh: Angels Share

Lunch Offer

Topping off our restaurant list is Angels Share, located just a stone's throw from Edinburgh Castle. The stylish interior boasts leather banquettes, slinky seating, dazzling chandeliers, and rich wood furnishings, creating a cosy yet sophisticated vibe. Sitting pretty in the historic city centre, this eatery dishes out modern Scottish fare with a twist, using fresh local ingredients jazzed up with global flavours. Think everything from roasted chicken legs to traditional haggis and other Scottish fare. Thirsty? They've got everything from yummy cocktails, a curated selection of wines, Scottish craft beers, and their in-house gins, poured to perfection.

UK-Wide: Wildwood

Wildwood is a popular Italian restaurant across the UK, serving up delicious pizza, pasta, burgers, steaks and more. They have venues in London, Bournemouth, Devon as well as other towns and cities all over the country, each one in a pretty venue kitted out with contemporary interiors. Head down to any and tuck into delicious plates of seared sesame crusted tuna steak, Philly cheesesteak artisan pizza topped with strips of marinated steak, chimichurri, Monterey Jack cheese, mozzarella, and baby plum tomatoes, as well as peri-peri chicken penne.

Edinburgh: Le Monde

Le Monde AKA one of the best restaurants not only has a New York-style cocktail den and luxurious Champagne bar, but they also serve some pretty tasty grub too. Dressed in dreamy pastels and cosy nooks, this spot is a haven for huddles with pals or romantic rendezvous. As for the menu, it's a globe-trotting adventure paired with Scottish flair, serving up delicious bites and hearty meals ranging from surf to turf and all-time classics. Try out their fish supper with crushed peas, tartare sauce and lemon or opt for some chocolate and hazelnut churros with cherry sauce.

Coventry: Benugo Bar & Kitchen At Warwick Arts Centre

Benugo Bar & Kitchen at Warwick Arts Centre isn't just a beauty with buckets of natural light and luscious greenery, it also showcases one helluva menu. Nestled in the foyer, this restaurant is a stunner: think cascading plant canopies, mirrored ceilings, and a jaw-dropping bar. Their menu is a culinary adventure, featuring small bites, shareable plates, and mouthwatering mains like stone-baked pizzas, juicy burgers or tacos paired with delish liquid libations. Highlights include seabass chermoula with samphire, olives, and potatoes, harissa and chilli pulled lamb shoulder with cucumber sambal and tzatziki on flatbread, and the famous short-rib marrowbone burger.

London: Pope Street Bar & Kitchen

Happy Hour and 1 other offer

Pope Street Bar & Kitchen is the go-to spot in New Eltham for cocktails, craft beer, and tasty bites. From small plates like BBQ jackfruit nachos and mac n cheese through to sharing trays and loaded fries, this hotspot is a great choice for restaurants in the UK. This neighbourhood hangout also features an open-plan bar and dining room, offering a stellar selection of craft beers, fine wines, and a wide variety of spirits. For special occasions, head upstairs to their private room with its own bar, perfect for hosting up to 70 guests.

Harrogate: Crimple

Boasting everything from a garden centre to a kitchen with an all-day menu and a sprawling food hall for produce or pizza, Crimple is a gorgeous destination that isn't to be missed out on. Drop by to munch on fresh, seasonal dishes spotlighting the finest Yorkshire produce at this laid-back, yet super cool spot. We're talking treats like beetroot bhaji sandwiches with green chilli chutney, chopped kale, and masala tomatoes, Korean barbecue chicken burgers, as well as hearty steak and ale pies.

Boscombe: Urban Reef

Over at Urban Reef in Boscombe, the menu focuses on delicious, sustainable seafood. Whether you're swinging by for a family Sunday lunch, grabbing a bite with friends, or planning a romantic dinner, this restaurant is the ultimate dining destination. Dedicated to fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, they embrace ethical and sustainable practices, serving dishes like seared scallops, New Milton dressed crab and the like. But if that's not for you? There's also steaks, burgers and salads. Enjoy their 90-seater sun deck on the promenade and ground floor café, or head upstairs to the 100-seater restaurant with a balcony offering stunning views over Boscombe Bay and the Purbecks.

London: Arthur's Pizza

If it's beautifully executed, wood-fired slices you're after, then Arthur's Pizza in London's Twickenham is the answer to your prayers. Situated along the Green, this light-filled gem offers breathtaking views through its bifold glass doors. Head on over to the cosy yet quirky hotspot to indulge in delicious Italian bites, cracking cocktails and top-notch wines. The menu features mouthwatering dishes like beef ragu lasagna, Giardiniera pizza with tomato, mushrooms, artichoke, wild broccoli, vegan parmesan, olives, and basil, plus delectable mushroom arancini.

Tunbridge Wells: The Guinea

Happy Hour Cocktails!

Boasting beer and BBQ dishes by the bucket load, this fun and welcoming pub in the heart of Tunbridge Wells is a must-visit for all hungry visitors. With a fabulous selection of mouthwatering bites, alongside a huge range of drinks, this eatery definitely doesn't fail to disappoint. Serving up British classics with a twist, this joint takes pride in using the freshest local and seasonal ingredients. Feast on gastropub favourites like chargrilled beef koftas, smoky brisket tacos, and crispy buttermilk chicken burgers, all crafted on-site. It's a flavour-packed experience that's not only delicious but also supports the local community and the environment, leaving you coming back for more and more.

UK-Wide: YO!

Thursdays: Bottomless Belt

Going above and beyond all expectations, the YO! family are serving up a menu of mouthwatering Japanese classics from sushi to gyoza, noodles to katsu curry. Check out their eateries in Aberdeen, Harrogate or Cheltenham if you're looking for somewhere closer to home. Here, the iconic conveyor belt takes centre stage, serving up traditional favourites like sashimi, sushi, and pumpkin katsu, all freshly prepared by skilled chefs. The colour-coded plates offer essentials like edamame and miso soup, along with inventive options such as tataki, hand rolls, nigiri, and gunkan.

Surrey: Niku Bar

Niku Bar is a stunning Ewell Road hotspot complete with flower walls, a separate cocktail lounge and a gorgeous beer garden. Not only can you expect a lineup of delicious fare, but expertly made concoctions, masterclasses and a DJ to boot. On the menu? Slinging Eastern European eats, they've got goodies like pesto and burrata pasta, grilled seabream with zesty lemon sauce, and spinach-filled pastry treats. It's the ultimate place for a cosy dinner for two or a laid-back hangout with your crew.

Manchester: Grand Pacific

Paying tribute to the golden age of high society, Grand Pacific is an exotic venue where rhythmic baselines fill the air and sweet botanicals delight the senses. This mysterious venue, brimming with Eastern allure and hints of far-flung shores, is set within stunning 19th-century architecture. Boasting a fabulous menu filled with pan-Asian bites, from sushi to fish and meat staples, this joint is a great place to eat in Manchester city centre, featuring dishes like Asian spice duck cottage pie, tempura Szechuan sea bass, and king oyster mushroom dashi. Not only does this stunning venue have swoon-worthy interiors, but they have a late licence too, where guests can boogie to a live DJ.

Norwich: Cliftonville

Situated on the stunning coast of Cromer, Cliftonville is a Norwich eatery worth visiting. Make your way inside, where you'll be able to chow down on fresh fish and seafood in a gorgeous dining space. This historic Grade II-listed Edwardian building features menus that rotate seasonally, highlighting the finest produce from North Norfolk. Indulge in dishes like pan-seared lamb rump with leeks, peas, samphire, Jersey Royals and mint Bearnaise, alongside chicken liver pâté on sourdough toast, as well as crispy sweetcorn and red onion pakora with spicy dhal. 

UK-Wide: Pizza Pilgrims

Pizza Pilgrims 4 Course Xmas Feasting Menu - £32.50 per person

Looking to eat some doughy delights? Head to Pizza Pilgrims in Oxford, Cambridge or London for some delicious slices covered in all your favourite toppings. Armed with the freshest ingredients and age-old recipes, this retro-style joint has earned a reputation for crafting drool-worthy Neapolitan pizzas. Feast on delights like the double pepperoni with hot honey, smoky aubergine parmesan, and a pie topped with spaghetti carbonara. Don't skip the dips, and make sure to treat yourself to their spritz cocktails or one of their chocolatey desserts — Nutella calzone, anyone?

Glasgow: Bothy

Fronting a seasonal Scottish menu, fruity spritz cocktails and spirits fresh from distilleries in the Highlands, Bothy is one of the best restaurants in Glasgow. Decked out with lush foliage, pretty lighting and pretty decor, the venue's seafood is top-notch. The menus here are a love letter to Scottish cuisine, brimming with seasonal favourites and locally sourced goodies. Lunch and dinner offerings rotate to keep things fresh and exciting while staying true to classic Scottish tastes, serving dishes like dill pan-seared seabass fillet and twice-cooked pork belly with a cider glaze. Since no meal is complete without a wee drink, be sure to explore their carefully curated drinks menu, overflowing with Scottish whiskies, gins, and locally distilled spirits.

Hull: Beverley Hills Diner

Located in Hull's Flemingate shopping centre, Beverley Hills Diner is a top spot for American-inspired eats. Drawing inspiration from California, this venue combines modern design with classic diner elements, featuring cosy booths for a relaxed dining environment. Inside, you'll find a state-of-the-art sound and lighting system, a jumbotron TV, and a DJ to keep the energy high. Outside, the alfresco seating area is ideal for enjoying diner favourites like double cheese rib-top burgers, garlic aioli wings, and Southern fried chicken and waffles. Nab a comfy booth, where you'll get to tuck into freshly-made treats, accompanied by a moreish ice cream milkshake. Our favourite is the Dr Pepper.

UK-Wide: Kibou

After the top 100 restaurants in the UK in 2024? Situated in the heart of Cheltenham, LondonBristol and Solihull, Kibou is here to make sure you don't go without your fix of delicious East Asian eats. Head over for fresh sushi rolls and warming bowls of ramen served in a quirky Tokyo-inspired setting. Don't miss their signature Volcano roll – a must-try combo of salmon, avocado, and tobiko futomaki, tempura-fried and drizzled with Kibou house sauce. Equally tempting is the confit teriyaki duck donburi, crowned with a tea-stained boiled egg and Japanese pickles.

Guernsey: The Crown Club at The Old Government House Hotel

Located in the prestigious 5-star hotel, The Crown Club is considered one of the top 10 best restaurants in the UK. With panoramic views overlooking St Peter's Port, you can enjoy a wide range of top-notch dishes with a glass of Champagne. Relax in the chic, monochrome venue, where a glass-enclosed wine and whisky tasting room sets the stage to enjoy a sumptuous lunch filled with beautifully presented treats. Using the finest local ingredients, their menu features delights such as the Guernsey lobster and crayfish roll with sweet brioche, spring onions, and Marie Rose sauce, as well as the Governor's Curry Room Tasting Plate, which includes lamb mince samosas, tandoori chicken wings, onion bhajis, and masala spiced fries.

Dundee: Apex City Quay

If you fancy dinner with a view, head over to Apex City Quay Dundee. The Quayside Bar & Grill offers a contemporary and sophisticated atmosphere, serving an array of unique dishes without compromising on traditional flavour. The menu features a variety of land, sea, and field delights, all expertly prepared on their Josper grill for maximum flavour. Overlooking the beautiful River Tay, the venue rustles up all kinds of delicious bites, including Praveen Kumar's chicken tikka masala, pulled beef ragu ciabatta, cider battered haddock and lip-smacking cocktails.

Cornwall: Outlaw's New Road

If you're searching for one of the finest spots for seafood lovers, head to Outlaw's New Road, where you can hook yourself some of the freshest fish around while enjoying gorgeous views of Port Isaac Harbour. Their ever-changing menu is all about showcasing daily local catches, and the dishes are kept simple to let the fish take centre stage. You can dive into delicacies like free-dived scallop and bass tartare, monkfish with clotted cream and black pepper sauce, as well as a lip-smacking crispy lobster soup.

Brighton: The Coal Shed

If you dream of high-quality steak and fish, then The Coal Shed is a firm choice as one of the best restaurants. Located in The Lanes, this is a perfect place for date night or catching up with friends in a chic space adorned with rich mahogany stained furniture, low hanging steel lamps and cool artwork. This joint gives a fiery salute to coal-roasted rare breed heritage meat and South Coast seafood, drawing inspiration from Founder Raz Helalat's Persian heritage. The menu keeps it simple: top-notch ingredients, nabbed as close to home as they come and flawlessly cooked over coal. You can sink your teeth into treats like Lake District farmer's rib eye, whole Sussex monkfish tail served with wild mushroom Diane sauce and hay-smoked guinea fowl.

New Forest: Framptons

Make your way to Framptons, the independent, family-owned café, bar, and restaurant in the scenic New Forest. Come inside and you'll discover a cosy environment spanning two floors, as well as a sunny courtyard and barn area where you can delight in treats like panko chicken burgers, smoked salmon salads, as well as slow-cooked ham hock and mushroom sourdough pizzas. If you're feeling thirsty, pair your dishes with ales, lagers or an array of cocktails. It's the perfect place for those seeking a warm and inviting space to indulge in great food, drinks, and live music.

UK-Wide: Comptoir Libanais

Feast Popularie

Situated in Exeter, Birmingham and beyond, Comptoir Libanais is home to some of the best Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine. Decked out in vibrant and offbeat decorations inspired by Lebanon's bustling markets and lively homes, this place is a total flavour fiesta featuring marinated grills, sumptuous tagines tasty cocktails. To kick things off, dive into one of the delicious mezze dips, like baba ganoush or hummus, paired with warm flatbreads. For the main course, go for the slow-cooked lamb and chicken tagine, and finish it all off with a taste of orange blossom mouhalabia and a refreshing rose mint tea. It's a feast that's sure to spice up your day.