When it comes to the best restaurants in Bristol, there are plenty to choose from. The city has everything from Michelin-star restaurants to cheap eats and everything in between. But which spots can offer a bit of luxury that doesn’t break the bank? These Michelin Guide-approved restaurants can tick both boxes. So if you’ve got a special anniversary coming up or a fancy date night, take a look at the cheapest Michelin Guide restaurants in Bristol when ‘on a budget’.
1. Root
This modern, veg-led eatery has an ethos of ‘more veg, less meat’. You won’t find many better at making vegetables the star ingredient than at Root in Wapping Wharf. Specialising in small plates, not everything is completely vegan. Expect cheeses and other dairy products, some fish and meat too. But the focus is all on the veggies. Root also owns a Bib Gourmand for ‘good quality, good value cooking’.
Michelin Guide says: “This busy, welcoming little restaurant occupies five first floor shipping containers on the old wharf. Produce from small local suppliers is used in simple yet flavour-packed small plates formed around vegetables. They have a modern, sometimes intriguing style and inventive touches.”
Root, Unit 9, Cargo 1, Gaol Ferry Steps, Wapping Wharf, City of Bristol, BS1 6WP
2. Little Hollows
Bristol’s number-one pasta spot, Little Hollows, showcases the best of fresh artisan pasta at its restaurant in Redland. Switching between relaxed and bright to lively and buzzing with ease, this cosy award-winning neighbourhood spot has some unique pasta creations on offer. All freshly made in the morning too! Alongside pasta, you can also try a range of Italian classics from salads to desserts.
Michelin Guide says: “If you’re looking for something a little different, head to Little Hollows Pasta, a rustic bar-cum-bistro where the pasta is freshly made in house each morning and then hung out in the window to dry. The Italian dishes have an honest heart, ingredients are top-notch, and flavours are rich and authentic; be sure to save room for one of the classic Italian desserts. The passion of the knowledgeable team is palpable.”
Little Hollows Pasta, 26 Chandos Road, City of Bristol, BS6 6PF
3. Beckford Bottle Shop
We’ll probably get some stick for including this (yes, we know Bath’s not in Bristol, but when the food is this good, it’s worth travelling for). This Bib Gourmand bistro is best known as a wine merchant, so you can expect an extensive range of top-notch bottles when you stop by. But the wine bar’s Somerset-inspired small plates, utilising the endless bounty of nearby produce, are the perfect accompaniment to any glass.
Michelin Guide says: “It’s now a wine shop and bistro but the building was formerly a tea merchant’s and a grocer’s, and many period features remain, including an old cast-iron range in the intimate basement lounge. The atmosphere is relaxed, the creative small plates offer great value for money and the wine selection is extensive.”
Beckfrod Bottle Shop, 5-8 Saville Row, Bath BA1 2QP
The cheapest Michelin Guide restaurants in Bristol are all classified as ‘on a budget’ by the Michelin Guide, to learn more head here.