10 Best Tapas Restaurants In Bristol
The vibrant city of Bristol, known for its eclectic music scene, captivating street art, and marvellously confusing roads, is also a paradise for food lovers! If you fancy a bit of Spanish flair, you’re in luck. Tapas, those delightful little dishes from Spain, have made their way into Bristol’s culinary map. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these ten best tapas restaurants in Bristol are going to do more than just tickle your taste buds.
1. Bravas
First off on our tapas odyssey is Bravas, located on the delightful Cotham Hill. This snug spot is renowned for tapas that’ll transport you straight to the streets of Barcelona. While their Patatas Bravas are undeniably their signature dish, their crispy calamari and silky Jamón Ibérico will make you want to shout “Olé!” If you can’t make a choice, order everything and worry about calories later!
2. Pata Negra
Don’t let its secretive St Nicholas Street location fool you; Pata Negra is a lively, buzzing bar that exudes Spanish charm. Specialising in traditional Spanish wines and sherries, this place allows for the kind of night where you’ll ask, “What calorie count?” Forget counting, as you dive into their Grilled Octopus or dreamy Croquetas. It’s also a fantastic place if you want to explore some of the other, equally appetising bars in Bristol.
3. Gambas
Perched quaintly within Wapping Wharf, Gambas offers a breezy view of the harbour, adding more charm to your dining experience. With dishes like Gambas al Ajillo, you’ll be giving your French baguette a work out with all the garlic butter heaven you’ll be soaking up. Remember, garlic breath is absolutely a badge of honour here!
4. The Spiny Lobster
If you’re a seafood lover, this place will start looking like your second home pretty quickly. Located on Whiteladies Road, The Spiny Lobster blesses its patrons with a delightful mix of fresh seafood tapas that come straight from the ocean and into your dreams. With dishes as fresh as your uncle’s comedy routine, you’ll likely return for more.
5. Papas & Tapas
Dare to adventure away from the city centre to Hanham where Papas & Tapas, a family-run standout, promises a warm and friendly experience. The Arroz Negro (squid ink rice) might look like it should be worn to a Halloween party, but fear not, it’s delectably moreish. In fact, everything on the menu is designed to be shared, so bring along an appetite — and maybe some friends too.
6. The Olive Shed
Come for the Loch Fyne smoked salmon, stay for the great company. The Olive Shed, positioned along the charming harbourside, serves tapas as beautiful as its view. Their Salt Cod Fritters are a must-try, and frankly, worth learning semaphore so you can wave it halfway across the city.
7. Poco Tapas Bar
Testament to its name, Poco offers little plates with a big heart. Known for their sustainable, locally sourced ingredients, Poco is a game-changer in Bristol’s tapas scene. If you can’t decide on which tapas to order from their ever-evolving menu, then congratulations! You’re just like everyone else who has walked through those doors. Just go with the flow and prepare to fall in love with something unexpected.
8. Riverstation
Set along the River Avon, Riverstation might just make lasagna lovers re-evaluate their life choices. Sit on the terrace, soak up the sun, and bite into some exceptional Calamari or Merguez Sausages. And if you feel the rumble of a boat, no, you are not in Seville — you are, in fact, on one of Bristol’s best daytime dates.
9. El Rincón
Tucked away in the corner of Easton, El Rincón is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy moreish tapas with a side of melody. Providing not just a feast for your stomach, this hidden gem also caters to your ears with live music and poetry nights. They do say music is the food of love, but also, eat the Chorizo, it’s life-changing.
10. La Margarita
Finally, a hop and a skip away, La Margarita in Bishopston captures the lively flamenco spirit of Spain’s late-night bars. The Tortilla Española doesn’t just serve to fill you up, it’ll probably teach you a few new Spanish phrases along the way (whether they make sense or not is another matter entirely). All in all, dining here is about having fun – and lots of it!
Bristol offers endless surprises with its culinary skills, and these tapas restaurants bring the perfect blend of flavour, Spanish tradition, and a hint of Bristolian charm. Whether you’re strolling down after exploring some of the prime attractions in the city, or simply looking for your next gastronomical adventure, these venues promise a taste of Spain right at your doorstep.