Bristol’s cosiest pubs, bars and restaurants

A cosy Spanish bar amongst Southville’s bustling North Street, El Rincón specialises in Spanish flavours. The simple, authentic tapas includes tortilla de patata, chorizo, Manchego with quince and caramelised peppers. Established in 2007, it’s popular with locals for a reason ‒ it doesn’t take reservations, so just turn up and grab a table. The live music is a huge draw ‒ from folk and jazz to flamenco, it’s an atmospheric spot for a drink and a bite to eat.

The clue is in the name, really, isn’t it. Often described as Bristol’s best-kept secret, Cosies! is an intimate wine bar and club offering modern British bistro cuisine. Sundays are about delicious Caribbean roasts, including chicken, curried goat and veggie/vegan options, washed down with reggae beats. It’s the perfect spot for a chilled gathering with friends. You can’t get more cosy than a brick-vaulted cellar, so hunker down for the night.

At the heart of Bristol’s independent foodie scene, Snobby’s is a snug Italian restaurant and wine bar. For casual dining in a relaxed environment, you can’t beat its pizza and small plates. Start with the cured ham and pecorino croquettes and finish with the caramel pannacotta. The restaurant has a generous and warm-hearted vibe, with staff more than happy to recommend the perfect wine to pair with your food choice. The cosiness extends outdoors to its terrace, where you can snuggle up underneath the blankets with a glass of something delicious. 

Nestled in Bristol’s city centre and against the backdrop of the medieval Christmas Steps, you can’t do better than this traditional boozer for a meet-up with mates. From craft beers to hearty food, the pub prioritises fresh local ingredients. Lunchtime options include a light bites menu and toasted sandwiches range, as well as a full list of mains, while the dinner selection focuses on pub classics, including beer-battered haddock and chips, mac and cheese, and sausages, mash and seasonal greens. 

It may have undergone a name change recently (at the time of writing), but the ethos of this friendly pub is the same: a traditional bar with modern attitudes. You’ll find proper comfort food here, whether you fancy one of the speciality burgers or a serving of poutine: slow roasted rare breed pulled pork, West Country cheddar and gravy on chips. Could anything be more comforting on a cold winter’s day? With live sport on the TV, a garden and regular live music, there’s something for everyone. It also welcomes dogs too, so bring your furry friend along.

For a cosy date night, you can’t go far wrong with littlefrench, a beautiful family-run restaurant in the Westbury Park neighbourhood. Serving classic French dishes at sensible prices, littlefrench is fast establishing itself on the Bristol foodie scene. Drop in for Saturday night dinner, Sunday lunch, or to simply sit at the counter with a glass of wine and a selection of delicious bar snacks, including lamb chops with rosemary salt and oysters with shallot vinegar.

A short 20-minute drive from Bristol city centre, you’ll find this cosy pub in the friendly community of Nailsea. This former farmhouse is now a rustic pub, serving up hearty meals with plenty for vegetarians/vegans to enjoy, as well as its popular Sunday carvery. A truly family-friendly option, there’s a dedicated menu for children, as well as an outside play area. With its oak beams, stripped timber floor and wood-burning stove, it’s the perfect spot to spend a lazy afternoon.