Where do you find the UK’s most exciting food scene right now? London? Manchester? Brighton? All of these cities have some incredible food and drink on offer, but for many serious foodies, it’s Bristol that makes their eyes light up more than anywhere else. In the past decade, Bristol has become a thriving hub of gastronomy, with an independent spirit giving restaurateurs and entrepreneurs the confidence to start something of their own. This has resulted in a city teeming with small casual restaurants, serving delicious food in relaxed surroundings that make the most of (often local) ingredients.
If anyone is a figurehead for Bristol’s food scene, it’s Josh Eggleton. While his Michelin-starred pub The Pony and Trap is a few miles away in Chew Magna, he has been involved in all sorts of projects in the city limits, and currently has three restaurants there (as well as being involved in Bristol Beer Factory). We couldn’t think of anyone better to take us round the city to show us the highlights.
The majority of Josh’s recommendations are based at CARGO, a new development at the city’s Whapping Wharf, which makes a day out flitting between each one very easy. CARGO is often credited with giving the whole of Bristol a boost thanks to its collection of small independent food and drink businesses. However, if you find yourself further into the city, there are a good number of suggestions for there too.