The Best Restaurants in Somerset
The county of Somerset is one of my favourite places to spend the weekend in the UK. There’s stunning hotels, beautiful villages and an endless list of places to explore. Plus, it serves up some of the best food in the country, thanks to the abundance of locally-produced ingredients. When you’re visiting somewhere with so much choice, you’ll want to make sure you choose the best. I make food a big priority when I’m planning a trip – I like to do my research and read the reviews ahead of time. The notion of “popping in somewhere” and hoping it’s nice isn’t something I particularly enjoy. So you can be sure that all of the restaurants on this list are well-worth a visit. Read on for my guide to the best restaurants in Somerset.
The best restaurants in Somerset: Bruton
Osip, Bruton
A former ironmongers, Osip is a farm-to-table restaurant in the heart of the quaint town of Bruton. It won a Michelin star in 2021, and more recently was awarded number one in Square Meal’s Top 100 Restaurants. And although my opinion doesn’t hold the same weight as a Michelin star, it was undoubtedly the best meal I’ve had this year. It’s top of my list for the best restaurants in Somerset.
In an unusual twist, you won’t choose from a menu at Osip. The vision behind their restaurant is for guests to put their faith in the kitchen and trust that the food will be delicious. The ingredients come from two nearby plots of land managed by the restaurant – and are served fresh each day. You’ll choose from six-courses for £85 or nine courses for £110, and be presented with a menu when you’ve finished.
Roth Bar & Grill, Bruton
If you’re after a casual lunch, Roth Bar & Grill is one of the best restaurants in Somerset. Husband and wife team Steve and Jules Horrell run the restaurant from the old cowshed of Durslade Farm at Hauser & Wirth. The building is beautiful – with lots of character and quirky artwork. All of the food is sourced locally – the team work with local farmers and gardeners to use produce with a focus on sustainability.
I ordered the buttermilk chicken burger with Asian slaw and it was absolutely delicious. But just a warning that this place isn’t cheap, my bill came to £25 for a burger and coke!
The Walcot, Bath
Bath is a foodie hotspot, there’s so many incredible restaurants to discover (a few of which feature in this guide). But my absolute favourite has to be The Walcot – it’s one of the best restaurants in Somerset for date night or a special occasion. It’s a former bakery split across two floors – upstairs is home to the restaurant, serving wholesome and hearty food. If you’re going for dinner, you have to order the beef croquettes – they were to die for. Downstairs, you’ll find a cosy cocktail bar as well as private-members club – Bread and Jam. Make sure you book a table at the bar afterwards, it’s the perfect place to spend your evening.
Matts Kitchen, Bruton
Matt’s Kitchen is an independently owned restaurant, run out of a downstairs room in owner Matt Watson’s Bruton home. It’s open Thursday-Saturday, serving a set monthly menu at £40 per person. It’s a casual affair, after all, you’re dining in someone’s living room, but the food is excellent. Bring your own alcohol and an open-mind – it’s definitely one of the best restaurants in Somerset.
At The Chapel, Bruton
As well as being a beautiful place to stay, At The Chapel also serves up incredible food. It’s a converted 17th-century Methodist chapel in Bruton that has it all, easily making it one of the best restaurants in Somerset. With a bakery, wine store, restaurant and outdoor terrace – it’s perfect for brunch, lunch and dinner. Or, if you don’t fancy eating in, their takeaway pizzas are delicious!
Dos Dedos, Bath
In the mood for Mexican food? Dos Dedos is a small restaurant just behind Pulteney Bridge in Bath. They serve over 100 mezcals and tequilas, nachos and delicious tacos. It’s unassuming with a simple menu – order the chilli chicken tacos, you won’t be disappointed.
The Ethicurean, Bristol
An award-winning restaurant found in the Mendip Hills, The Ethicurean is renowned for being one of the best restaurants in Somerset. It focuses on ethically-conscious, innovative food with stunning views over the countryside. It’s a true culinary experience – you can’t miss it!
The Garden Cafe, The Newt in Somerset
The Newt in Somerset is a country estate based in the sprawling Somerset countryside. From the husband and wife duo behind Babylonstoren in South Africa, as well as being an exceptional place to spend the night, it’s one of the best restaurants in Somerset. You’ll need to buy a membership to enter the gardens, but you can make a day of it and spend a few hours exploring after you’ve eaten. The Garden Cafe is a vegetable-led menu, serving produce that’s grown in the gardens on the estate.
Beckford Bottle Shop, Bath
Beckford Bottle Shop is a wine merchant and restaurant found on a quiet cobbled street in Bath. The menu is designed for sharing, and best enjoyed alongside the wine, which is also available to buy in their shop. Try and get a seat downstairs if you can, the room is dimly lit and perfectly cosy. It’s one of the best restaurants in Somerset.
Cargo Cantina, Bristol
Although technically just outside the county, Bristol is well worth a visit if you’re in the area. Another brilliant Mexican restaurant, Cargo Cantina is one of the best restaurants in Somerset. It’s based in Wapping Wharf – a former ship-building yard converted into a series of restaurants and bars on Bristol’s harbour. Inspired by the authentic Cantinas of Mexico, the nachos here are to die for!
The Pig, near Bath
The Pig is renowned for being one of the best places to stay in England, largely due to its impressive commitment to food. Their 25-mile menu means everything is sourced locally, focusing on flavour and reflecting the changing seasons. Not staying over? You can still drop by for lunch or dinner – just make sure you book ahead because tables are booked well in advance.
There’s my guide to the best restaurants in Somerset. Have I missed any? I’m always looking to add more restaurants to my list. Let me know in the comments below.
