Bath is a beautiful city in southwest England full of famous sights from the Roman baths that give the town its name to the imposing gothic Abbey, Jane Austin museum, and more. It’s also an excellent place for foodies as you’ll discover from this list of the best restaurants in Bath.
I’ve been visiting this historic city nestled on the edge of the Cotswolds for many years, and always look forward to checking out the best places to eat in Bath. There’s no shortage of eateries in the city and you’ll find everything from traditional pub grub to Michelin-rated restaurants.
Bath is arguably most famous for its cider made from locally harvested apples. As well as a fine drink on a summer’s day it’s also used as an ingredient in many local dishes (mussels in cider being one popular example). You’ll be able to find local ciders in many pubs and restaurants across the city.
15 Best Restaurants in Bath
After eating my way around Bath for many years, I’ve compiled this list of my favorite restaurants in the city based on the quality of the food, service, location, my personal opinion, and customer reviews. I’ve eaten at many more restaurants than mentioned here during my visits, but I’ve narrowed this list down to 15 based on those criteria.
1. The Circus Restaurant (Best Restaurant in Bath Overall)
The Circus was voted number 4 in the Times’ list of 20 best places to eat in the whole of the UK, so you know that not only is this one of the best restaurants in Bath, but also in the entire country.
It also won the TripAdvisor Travelers Choice Awards in 2020 so the folks at the Circus certainly know how to impress. You’ll find a menu of seasonally inspired European dishes as well as an exceptional wine list.
The prices are moderate but not excessive and the quality of food and service is worth every penny. You’ll definitely taste some of the best food in Bath at the Circus.
The Circus Restaurant Information
Address: 34 Brock Street, Bath, BA1 2LN
Phone: +44 (0)1225 466020
Operating Hours: 12 pm-10 pm, Mon-Sat (closed Sunday)
Must-Try Meals: Cheddar, truffle and fig tart, River Fowey mussels in cider, braised lamb
Average Cost: £7-£10 per starter, £20-£30 per main, £8 for desserts
Website: thecircusrestaurant.co.uk
2. The Salamander
The Salamander is something of a hidden gem in the center of town. This cozy pub and restaurant features wooden floors, church pews, and a really cozy feel. It’s definitely one of the more romantic restaurants in Bath and has an excellent menu of hearty classics and innovative dishes.
I recommend the salmon fishcakes and cider-cooked ham, egg, and chips. This is also the place to come for fans of real ales as the Salamander prides itself on always having local brews on tap in addition to a range of bottled beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails.
This is one of the best local restaurants in Bath and one of my favorite places for a pint and a bite to eat.
The Salamander Information
Address: 3 John Street, Bath, BA1 2JL
Phone: +44 (0)1225 428889
Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Sun-Thu, 12 pm-12 am, Fri-Sat
Must-Try Meals: Fish ‘n’ chips, hot salmon fishcakes, cider-cooked ham, egg, and chips
Average Cost: £6-£8 per starter, £12-£18 per main, £6 for desserts
Website: salamanderbath.co.uk
3. The Walcot / Walcot House
The Walcot (also known as Walcot House) is a Michelin-listed fine-dining restaurant in the heart of bohemian Walcot, a small suburb next to the city center. Chef Charlie Hopkins leads a team that cooks up a selection of traditional and modern European dishes that are wholesome and flavor-led.
Choose from the set menu or à la carte with dishes such as salmon rillette, grilled sourdough, fennel and caper salad, and slow-cooked lamb shoulder. Although the service, ambiance, and of course food are high-caliber, the prices are very reasonable. You can order two courses from the set menu for £17.50 or three courses for £21.50.
If you’re stuck for where to eat in Bath (you certainly shouldn’t be after reading this) then head to the Walcot. There’s also an adjoining bar for breakfast, drinks, and light snacks.
The Walcot Information
Address: 90 Walcot Street, Bath, BA1 5BG
Phone: +44 (0)1225 530499
Operating Hours: 9 am-11 pm, Mon-Wed, 9 am-2 am, Thu, 9 am-3 am, Fri, 10 am-3 am, Sat, 12 pm-6 pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Hot smoked salmon rillette, crispy chicken burger and slaw, home-cured ham ciabatta
Average Cost: £5-£6 per starter, £10-£30 per main, £8.50 for desserts
Website: walcothousebath.com
4. The Scallop Shell
This family-friendly fish and chip restaurant is one of the top restaurants in Bath for seafood and has a great menu of classic British dishes. From cod and haddock with chips, peas, and tartare sauce to Cornish monkfish or lemon sole, and my personal favorite, the smoked salmon fishcakes, there’s something to suit all tastes here.
The Scallop Shell is something of a Bath institution and I always make sure I pop in for some fish and chips whenever I’m in town. There’s also a fine wine list to enjoy with your fish supper, but bottles are a little pricey at over £80 a pop. The food prices, however, are reasonable given the excellent quality and warm welcome.
The Scallop Shell Information
Address: 22 Monmouth Place, Bath, BA1 2AY
Phone: +44 (0)1225 420928
Operating Hours: 12 pm-2:30 pm and 4:30 pm-9:30 pm Mon-Sat, 12 pm-3 pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Cod and chips, Moroccan spiced chickpea fritters, smoked salmon fishcake
Average Cost: £4-£14 per starter, £15-£25 per main
Website: thescallopshell.co.uk
5. Bath Cider House
You can’t come to the county of Somerset (where Bath is) and not sample the local cider. One of the most popular local ciders is made by Lilley’s and is served on tap at the Bath Cider House alongside more well-known brands such as Stowford Press and Thatchers, which are just as delicious.
In addition to the impressive selection of draught and bottled ciders, beers, wines, and cocktails, the Cider House also has a tasty range of giant 14″ square (and musically themed) pizzas that are cooked to perfection.
Choose from toppings such as Wu-Tang Ham, Drop it Like it’s Hot, or my personal favorite, the Notorious V.E.G.
Bath Cider House Information
Address: 7 Bladud Buildings, The Paragon, Bath, BA1 5LS
Phone: +44 (0)1225 695100
Operating Hours: 5 pm-2 am, Mon-Fri, 12 pm-2 am, Sat, 12 pm-11 pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Lilley’s Cider, nachos, Notorious V.E.G pizza
Average Cost: £4.35-£5.95 per pint of cider, £8-£12 per side, £14-£20 per pizza
Website: bathciderhouse.co.uk
6. Graze Bath
If you’re looking for the best rooftop bar in Bath, then head to Graze for a fantastic selection of craft beers (there’s a microbrewery onsite) and lovingly prepared dishes to pair with a pint. The roof terrace offers stunning views of the city while you eat and drink in convivial surroundings.
This is a great place for lunch or dinner, and there’s a children’s menu too so it’s a great option for the whole family. This is one of the more stylish places in town and certainly one of the best outdoor restaurants in Bath, but it does come with slightly higher-than-average prices.
Graze Bath Information
Address: 9 Brunel Square, Bath, BA1 1SX
Phone: +44 (0)1225 3359752
Operating Hours: 11 am-11 pm, Mon-Sat, 11 am-9pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Banana blossom fish and chips (with St Austell ale), west country beef burger, black forest trifle
Average Cost: £8-£14.50 per starter, £15-£35 per main, £9 for desserts
Website: grazebath.co.uk
7. The Pump Room Restaurant
The Pump Room is arguably the best restaurant in Bath with a view as it spectacularly overlooks the historic Roman baths. The restaurant won the 2019 Diners Choice Awards and this gorgeous Georgian eatery has even seen the likes of Jane Austin and Charles Dickens as patrons.
This is the place to come for the best brunch in Bath (did someone say Champagne?) and is also the perfect place to indulge in the most British of traditions; afternoon tea.
There are also offers for evening meals such as the set menu for £47 for two courses.
The Pump Room Information
Address: Stall Street, Bath, BA1 1LZ
Phone: +44 (0)1225 444477
Operating Hours: 10 am-4 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Grilled sea bass, lemon and thyme roast chicken, gnocchi
Average Cost: £23.25 for brunch, £35 for afternoon tea, £47 for two course meal
Website: sevenrooms.com
8. The Pulteney Arms
This traditional pub is a great place to come for cheap eats in Bath as the menu is very reasonably priced. It’s the best place for dinner in Bath if you’re looking for some proper pub grub. With classics such as fish and chips, ham, egg and chips to Cornish crab, steak, and burgers, you won’t go hungry at the Pulteney.
This historic pub is one of my favorites in Bath to while away an afternoon or evening. There’s both indoor and outdoor seating so you can dine al-fresco in the summer months. This is also the best cheap restaurant in Bath, so if you’re looking for great value without compromising on quality, The Pulteney Arms is the place to go.
The Pulteney Arms Information
Address: 37 Daniel Street, Bath, BA2 6ND
Phone: +44 (0)1225 463923
Operating Hours: 12 pm-11 pm, Wed-Thu, 12 pm-12 am, Sat-Sun, 12 pm-10:30 pm, Sun (closed Mon-Tue)
Must-Try Meals: Dressed Cornish crab, beer-battered fish and chips, gnocchi
Average Cost: £4.50-£11 per starter, £11-£18 per main, £6 for desserts
Website: thepulteneyarms.co.uk
9. Sub 13
Sub 13 is a great all-around venue and was voted the best cocktail bar in Bath. But it’s not all about margaritas, (although who can argue with tequila), as Sub 13 covers three floors and a heated courtyard.
In addition to the cocktails, beers, and ciders, there’s a menu offering mouth-watering stone-baked pizzas and other dishes. Come here for the best patio in Bath and stay for the lively atmosphere.
Sub 13 is popular with students and those looking for a fun evening out in the heart of the city. Food is served from Sunday to Friday from 6 pm to 9 pm.
Sub 13 Information
Address: 4 Edgar Buildings, Bath, BA1 2EE
Phone: +44 (0)1225 466667
Operating Hours: 6 pm-1 am, Mon-Thu, 6 pm-3 am, Fri, 1 pm-3 am, Sat, 5 pm-11 pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Arancini (risotto with porcini mushrooms), Diavolo (spicy) pizza, Caprina pizza
Average Cost: £2-£4 per starter, £6.95-£14.95 per main
Website: sub13.net
10. Henry’s Restaurant
Henry’s is run by Chef Henry Scott who comes from nearby Warminster. He’s traveled around the world and picked up many influences which he and his team of talented chefs combine with locally sourced produce for a menu of innovative and modern British cuisine.
There’s a set lunch menu and an evening tasting menu (including a full vegetarian tasting menu) with dishes such as smoked potato ravioli, mushroom miso broth, mackerel, partridge, and sirloin steak. The two-course set lunch costs £26 which is very reasonable considering the quality and service, and the tasting menus are £65 for five courses, and £80 for seven.
If you’re looking for fine dining in Bath without too hefty a bill, then Henry’s is definitely the best option.
Henry’s Restaurant Information
Address: 4 Saville Row, Bath, BA1 2QP
Phone: +44 (0)1225 780055
Operating Hours: 12 pm-8:30 pm, Wed-Sat (closed Sun-Mon)
Must-Try Meals: Set lunch or tasting menus
Average Cost: £26 set lunch, £65 five courses, £80 seven courses
Website: henrysrestaurantbath.com
11. The Green Rocket Cafe
The laid-back Green Rocket Cafe is a contender for the best vegetarian restaurant in Bath. The menu is entirely plant-based making it suitable for vegans too. The cafe is located right in the heart of Bath and is open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week, and for evening meals on Fridays and Saturdays.
The monster veggie brekkie (breakfast) is a winner and will fill you up for under £12 – definitely the best breakfast in Bath for vegetarians. Think veggie sausages, portobello mushrooms, bubble and squeak (yum), and homemade beans. The macaroni cheese and roasted cauliflower is another favorite of mine and well worth a try.
With very reasonable prices, this is one of the best vegan restaurants in Bath and the food is so good that whether you eat meat or not, this delightful eatery should not be missed. There’s also a great selection of wines and beers to enjoy with your meal.
The Green Rocket Cafe Information
Address: 1 Pierrepont Street, Bath, BA1 1LB
Phone: +44 (0)1225 420084
Operating Hours: 9 am-4:30 pm, Sun-Thu, 9 am-9 pm, Fri-Sat
Must-Try Meals: Monster veggie brekkie, mushroom and black bean burger, macaroni cheese with roasted cauliflower
Average Cost: £6.50-£7.50 per starter, £8-£11.95 per main, £4.50-£7.50 for desserts
Website: thegreenrocket.co.uk
12. Sotto Sotto
Italian (and more generally Mediterranean) is one of my favorite types of food, and if you’re looking for a taste of Italy then be sure to pop into Sotto Sotto for a meal. Simplicity is the key; their produce comes directly from Italy for that authentic flavor.
The pasta (fettuccini, penne, and linguine) is homemade and served with various sauces from roasted butternut squash to lamb ragu and seafood. The salmon alla mostarda with mustard, shallots, and cream sauce is to die for. There’s also an excellent dessert menu with homemade gelato and a comprehensive wine list.
Sotto Sotto Information
Address: 10 North Parade, Bath, BA2 4AL
Phone: +44 (0)1225 330236
Operating Hours: 12 pm-10 pm, Tue-Sat (closed Sun-Mon)
Must-Try Meals: Salmon alla mostarda, rack of lamb, tiramisu
Average Cost: £9.25-£11 per starter, £15-£30 per main, £5-£7.50 for desserts
Website: sottosotto.co.uk
13. Chez Dominique
I do love French cooking (I often cook hearty, warming dishes like coq au vin and beef Bourguignon at home) and Chez Dominque is a traditional Bistro serving up the best flavors from France and mainland Europe using locally sourced produce from the west of England.
There’s a set lunch menu and an evening à la carte with a wide range of dishes from carrot and fennel soup to sea bass, roast cod, Devon duck and chicken, and some delicious desserts such as sorbet and a cheese board.
Chez Dominique Information
Address: 15 Argyll Street, Bathwick, Bath, BA2 4BQ
Phone: +44 (0)1225 463482
Operating Hours: 12 pm-9 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Sea bass and salsa verde, Devon duck breast in orange sauce, roast cod and chorizo croquette
Average Cost: £8.50 per starter, £17.50-£30 per main, £6 for desserts
Website: chezdominique.co.uk
14. Raphael Restaurant and Wine Bar
For a fresh take on modern British food and an excellent wine list head along to Raphael Restaurant and Wine Bar in the center of town. Come here for the best lunch in Bath (including an excellent Sunday roast) or for dinner and drinks in the evening.
From pigeon, scallops, and crab to pork, beef, and cod, the excellent menu focuses on fresh, local ingredients that are in season. The Teriyaki cod with sesame crushed potatoes and ginger is a must-try, as is the steak and ale pie. The prices are good for the quality and service.
Raphael Restaurant and Wine Bar Information
Address: Gasgoyne House, Upper Borough Walls, Bath, BA1 1RN
Phone: +44 (0)1225 480042
Operating Hours: 12 pm-10 pm, Mon-Sat, 12 pm-3:30 pm, Sun
Must-Try Meals: Teriyaki glazed cod, slow-cooked port belly, tempura crab
Average Cost: £9-£11 per starter, £19-£26 per main, £9 for desserts
Website: raphaelrestaurant.co.uk
15. The Velo Lounge
If you’re looking for somewhere with a relaxed yet quirky, Bohemian vibe then the Velo Lounge is an excellent choice. From all-day brunches to tapas and paninis, this is a great place for cheap eats in Bath. They offer a range of menus including vegan, gluten-free, and children’s.
This is a great lunch spot for sandwiches, paninis, burgers, and salads and an equally good place for an evening meal and a few drinks.
The Velo Lounge also specializes in Mexican dishes, so if you like a little (or a lot) of spice, be sure to pop in for a bite. A great budget option and dog friendly!
The Velo Lounge Information
Address: 30 Moorland Road, Bath, BA2 3PW
Phone: +44 (0)1225 344663
Operating Hours: 9 am-11 pm, Mon-Sun
Must-Try Meals: Mexican SuperBowl, pulled brisket chili, nasi goreng Malaysian rice
Average Cost: £5 per starter, £10-£15 per main, £7 for desserts
Website: thelounges.co.uk/velo
Must-Try Meals in Bath
Bath, and Somerset more generally, are famed for their cider; an alcoholic drink made from apples (if pear is used it’s a perry). You definitely shouldn’t come to Bath without trying a local cider, however, if you’re not a fan of the drink, there are plenty of dishes to try which use this local ingredient instead.
Cider
You can try cider in any of the pubs in the city, but the best place, and my personal favorite, is the Bath Cider House. If you want to try something cooked locally in cider then I suggest heading to the Salamander for their cider-cooked ham.
Cheddar
Cheddar cheese comes from the nearby town of Cheddar, also famed for its canyon (Cheddar Gorge), so you should definitely give this tasty, crumbly cheese a try. I suggest a cheese and onion, or cheese and pickle sandwich, and opt for the mature Cheddar for a stronger taste.
Bath Chaps
Bath Chaps is a delicacy dating back to 1900 and is made from pig cheeks soaked in water. It’s a type of breaded ham which traditionally came from pigs raised around the west country and Cotswolds.
Bath Bun
The Bath Bun is a sweet bun made from yeast dough and sugar that’s topped with candied fruit. You can pick up this sweet treat in any bakery and most cafes around the city.
Cream Tea
Although not specifically from Bath, the classic cream tea with scones, jam, and cream is a west country staple that’s served from Somerset to Cornwall. There are plenty of places you can try a cream tea in Bath such as Sweet Little Things Bakery and tea rooms in the city center. It’s definitely one of my favorite snacks from this part of the world.
Bath Restaurants: FAQs
There are so many excellent restaurants in Bath but some of the top eateries include the Pump Room, Henry’s, and The Circus. Not forgetting Walcot House (Michelin) and Raphael’s.
Dinner in Bath is usually eaten between 5 pm and 6 pm during the week and 6 pm to 8 pm during the weekend.
Lunch in Bath is usually eaten between 12 pm and 2 pm. A Sunday lunch (which you should definitely try while in the west country) is eaten anywhere between 12 pm and 4 pm.
Breakfast in Bath is usually eaten between 6 am and 8 am during the week and later on weekends.
You don’t need to tip for drinks in Bath (or anywhere in the UK), but for a good meal and service, it’s customary to tip 10-15%.
The city center has most of the best restaurants in Bath with others located around Bathwick, Camden, and Walcot. Most of the best places to eat in Bath are within a short walk of each other.
The city center is the best place to stay in Bath if you want to experience everything the city has to offer in terms of attractions (Roman Baths, museums, etc), food, and nightlife.
The best pub food in Bath is found at the Pulteney Arms. Expect pub classics from fish and chips to burgers, steak and ale pie, and more. It’s also one of the cheapest places to eat in the city without compromising on quality.
The Pump Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Bath with a view as it overlooks the Roman baths. Graze Bath is also an excellent place to eat and drink with fantastic cityscape views.
In Conclusion
Now you know about some of the leading restaurants in Bath and the best places to eat in the city. Whether you want city skyline views, traditional restaurants in Bath, a good pub lunch, or vegan or Michellin-starred fine dining, there’s somewhere to suit all tastes and budgets.
I can’t wait to get back to Bath and pop into some of these fine establishments for a good feed and a few drinks (Graze, Sub 13, and the Pulteney especially).