Beyond the Roman Baths: A Culinary Tour of Historic Bath
Bath is a city of exceptional elegance, where the golden-hued Georgian stone creates a backdrop of perpetual sophistication. Its culinary scene is a natural extension of its architecture and history—refined, deeply rooted in local produce, and focused on genuine, quality experiences. Eating here is rarely just a meal; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s unique charm, whether you are enjoying a historic local bun in a 15th-century kitchen or a perfect British pub pie in a cosy corner. The best restaurants in Bath weave together excellent, authentic food with memorable atmospheres that simply cannot be replicated.
Here is a guide to the most essential, high-quality, and atmospheric dining experiences for visitors to the city.
Historic & Classic British Dining
Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House
Housed in one of Bath’s oldest buildings (c. 1482), a visit to Sally Lunn’s is an act of culinary pilgrimage. The establishment is famous for its namesake, the Sally Lunn Bun, a semi-sweet, brioche-like creation that is a distinct local delicacy. Reviews universally praise the unique, historic atmosphere of the old house and its small kitchen museum downstairs. Dining here is an accessible and authentic piece of Bath’s history, offering a rare blend of traditional fare and a wonderfully cosy, old-world setting perfect for a historic breakfast, afternoon tea, or a light dinner.
The Circus Restaurant
Nestled between the iconic Circus and the Royal Crescent, this family-run independent is a local institution that perfectly captures the Georgian essence of the city. The restaurant occupies a beautiful, softly-lit Georgian townhouse. Reviews highlight its consistently excellent modern British food, with a menu that is seasonal, locally sourced, and expertly executed. The atmosphere is described as “buzzy” and unpretentious, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. It’s a reliable choice for high-quality, seasonal dining in an incomparable historic location.
Beckford Canteen
Located in a former Georgian greenhouse on picturesque Bartlett Street, Beckford Canteen offers a modern take on British dining with a focus on creative and seasonal dishes. The setting is light and airy, featuring an interior that is informal but considered, making it feel less like a formal restaurant and more like a stylish, neighbourhood eatery. Diners frequently praise the fantastic service and the “foodie’s food” that is still presented in a friendly, laid-back manner. It’s an excellent choice for a contemporary experience that respects local ingredients and heritage.
The Elder
Tucked away in the city centre, The Elder is renowned for its game-focused, refined British cuisine. Reviews consistently rate the food as “outstanding” and “sublime,” with the service being impeccable and attentive. While it sits at the higher end of the moderate price bracket, the value comes from the opulent yet not stuffy atmosphere and the high-quality, creative dishes. It offers an elegant dining experience within a gorgeous, well-designed historic interior—ideal for a special meal that still feels grounded in local flavour.
Atmospheric Pubs and Local Gems
The Raven
The Raven is the definitive traditional British pub experience in Bath. It’s best known for its exceptional, homemade savory pies (including a signature “Raven Ale” pie) served with mash and gravy, as well as an excellent selection of local ales and ciders. Spread over multiple cosy floors with a classic, welcoming pub atmosphere, it’s a genuine local favorite. Reviews praise the hearty, delicious food and the lively, friendly vibe. It’s a must-visit for a true taste of British comfort food.
The Salamander
A quintessential “hidden gem” just off Queen Square, The Salamander is a small, snug, and very special pub. It focuses on classic British pub fare, but elevates it with great ingredients, often locally sourced. Reviews love its genuine, traditional pub ambience—cosy corners, a well-stocked bar with local Bath Ales, and a welcoming, laid-back feel. It’s the perfect spot for a simple, quality lunch or dinner in an authentic, unpretentious setting.
The Chequers
This popular pub, located on a quieter residential Georgian street, has earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand for its good quality, good value cooking. It maintains the atmosphere of a local pub while serving an elevated, modern British menu. Diners note the “appealingly muscular quality” of the dishes, from Orkney scallops to excellent Sunday roasts. It strikes a rare balance: the feel of a friendly local boozer with genuinely sophisticated food.
Green Park Brasserie
Set in the grand, historic ticket hall of the old Green Park railway station, this restaurant offers an atmosphere that is truly unique. It’s a spacious yet cosy space, well-loved for its classic British and grill menu, but perhaps most famous for its live jazz, funk, and swing music multiple nights a week. This blend of historic Victorian architecture, quality food (including locally sourced steaks), and live music makes for a distinctly vibrant and romantic dining experience that consistently draws praise.
Speciality & Elevated Classics
The Scallop Shell
Widely regarded as the best place for seafood in Bath, The Scallop Shell is a must for a taste of the UK’s coastal bounty. While it serves exceptional fish and chips, its offerings go beyond the classic, including seasonal fish and shellfish sourced from coastal markets. The atmosphere is casual, buzzy, and lively, with a charming nautical and rustic feel. Diners love the fresh, simple, and perfectly cooked food, making it an essential stop for high-quality, market-fresh seafood at a reasonable price point.
The Herd Steak Restaurant
This restaurant specializes in locally sourced, high-quality steaks served in a cozy, rustic basement setting near Pulteney Weir. Reviews consistently highlight their mastery of cooking and resting meat, with many claiming it serves the best steak in Bath. The intimate, rustic interior creates a relaxed but memorable atmosphere, perfect for meat-lovers seeking a focused, expertly executed menu with strong local provenance.
Sotto Sotto
Located in a candlelit, vaulted stone cellar in the basement vaults of a Georgian edifice, Sotto Sotto is often cited as one of Bath’s most romantic and atmospheric restaurants. While serving Italian cuisine, its popularity with locals and its stunning, memorable setting earn it a place on this list. Diners rave about the intimate ambience and the high-quality, authentic Italian food. Its unique, historic location makes it an architectural and culinary standout just steps from the Roman Baths.
Clayton’s Kitchen
Set within a handsome Georgian townhouse, Clayton’s Kitchen offers refined, modern European cooking that balances relaxed elegance with sophisticated technique. The former Head Chef of the luxurious Bath Priory, Rob Clayton, brings a wealth of experience to this corner-restaurant. Reviews commend the consistently high quality of the seasonal, refined dishes and the warm, attentive service. It provides a polished dining experience that feels both centrally located and intimately tucked away.