Bath has quietly become one of the South West’s strongest food cities, with everything from a Michelin-starred dining room to a takeaway hatch with a queue out the door. Here are the best restaurants in Bath, organised by the kind of dining experience you’re looking for.
For a Special Occasion
The Olive Tree, tucked beneath The Queensberry Hotel on Russell Street, has held a Michelin Star since 2018 and is Somerset’s only restaurant with four AA Rosettes. Executive Chef Chris Cleghorn creates tasting menus using the very best West Country produce, working closely with trusted local suppliers. Choose from several set menus depending on how many courses you’d like to enjoy.
For Modern British Dining
Upstairs at Landrace, above the acclaimed Landrace bakery, is one of Bath’s most talked-about restaurants. Expect confident seasonal cooking, fresh local ingredients and desserts that make full use of the exceptional bakery downstairs.
For Outstanding Vegetarian Food
OAK, close to Bath Abbey, was one of the first plant-based restaurants in the UK to be listed in the Michelin Guide and now also holds a Michelin Green Star. Its small plates focus on local produce and are excellent value, with most dishes priced under £13.
For a Romantic Dinner
Sotto Sotto, hidden beneath North Parade in a vaulted stone cellar, offers one of Bath’s most atmospheric dining experiences. Candlelit surroundings, homemade pasta and fresh seafood make it a favourite for couples.
For Classic Fine Dining
Raphael, near the Theatre Royal, has been family-run for almost 40 years. Inspired by traditional French cuisine, it’s a dependable choice for a refined meal and particularly popular before an evening performance.
For Fish and Chips
The Scallop Shell on Monmouth Place is much more than a traditional fish and chip shop. Sustainably sourced seafood, cooked with care, has earned it a loyal local following and praise from several well-known chefs.
For a Quick and Affordable Bite
Chaiwalla in Kingsmead Square has no seating and serves takeaway only, but the constant queue says everything. It’s become one of Bath’s best-loved spots for fast, flavour-packed street food.
For Pizza
The Oven at Seven Dials is well known for authentic wood-fired pizzas with simple, quality ingredients. Napulè Ristobar Pizzeria is another excellent choice and consistently ranks among Bath’s highest-rated Italian restaurants.
For Steak
Bath is home to several excellent family-run steakhouses serving locally sourced, dry-aged beef in intimate city-centre settings. They’re ideal if you’re looking for a traditional steak dinner with plenty of character.
For a Sunday Roast
Several of Bath’s historic gastropubs serve excellent traditional Sunday roasts. It’s worth booking well in advance, particularly during autumn and winter when the Bath Christmas Market brings extra visitors into the city. If you’re visiting during the festive season, our Bath Christmas Market 2026 guide can help you plan your trip.
For Afternoon Tea
The Pump Room, next to the Roman Baths, has been serving afternoon tea since Georgian times and is famously associated with Jane Austen. Book ahead, and consider a later afternoon reservation if you’d prefer a quieter experience.
Stay Close to Bath’s Best Restaurants
One of the advantages of staying in central Bath is that almost every restaurant on this list is within a short walk. From Hiding Space’s serviced apartments on Westgate Buildings or Trim Street, you’re never more than ten minutes away from some of the city’s best places to eat. You’ll also have a fully equipped kitchen back at your apartment if you fancy cooking for yourself between meals.
Looking for more inspiration? Read our guides to the best things to do in Bath and Bath’s best bars and nightlife to make the most of your stay.
