Bristol’s top dining spots this May Bank Holiday

This quirky restaurant on Gloucester Road is vibrant, cosy and lively; the perfect setting for some bank holiday fun. In terms of food, it does a range of ‘Galli Plates’ which are small bites, including things like butternut and harissa hummus and flatbread, and smashed potatoes with rocket pesto and aioli. There are also some seasonal larger main dishes on offer. The entire menu has a range of meat, veggie and vegan options making sure it’s inclusive for everyone. After your food why not stay for some drinks and a boogie because come late evening this restaurant turns into one of the most popular bars in Bristol. It hosts live music every night of the week, with some of Bristol’s best up and coming artists. You’re guaranteed to have a night full of fun, laughter and great music at the Galli. 

The infamous pub crawl route starting at The Anchor and ending at Attic Bar is the perfect May Bank Holiday activity, and The Hobgoblin’s the ideal central stop for a bite to eat. This relaxed pub serves simple but high quality comfort food, and has earned a reputation for serving amazing burgers. English and American influences mixed with local ingredients create the perfect blend of delicious and satisfying. The dirty fries with pulled pork and mounds of cheddar and stilton are to die for. As well as this, it has a range of great craft ales to choose from; Brewdog and Beavertown are regularly featured in its tap line-up. Great food, interesting pints and a nice beer garden all work together to make this a must for a bank holiday visit.

Why not pair an early dinner with a trip to the theatre? The menu at Tobacco Factory is all vegetarian and does a good job of keeping variety and flavour in its dishes. As a member of The Sustainable Restaurants Association, it works to make sure only the best local produce is used. Risottos, pies and burgers are staples on its menu, but this changes regularly so you can check the website to see what’s currently being served. If theatre isn’t your thing then why not go on the Sunday and have a delicious lunch and a mooch around the weekly market. 

This boat, along the harbourside, is a great place to stop off for a drink or a bite to eat. It’s along a lovely route around the harbourside that would be the perfect bank holiday Sunday walk. It has an upper deck with panoramic views of the harbour that’s a sun trap if the weather is nice, or if we aren’t lucky there’s lots of inside and undercover seating too. It serves delicious, honest and seasonal food complimented with local beers, freshly ground coffee, wines and spirits. It has a veg and seafood focused menu and also serves a delicious roast on a Sunday. You will see lots of craft  beers from Bristol-based breweries like Bristol Beer Factory and New Bristol Brewery. All round, The Grain Barge is a great stop to plan into your bank holiday weekend. 

If you’ve decided to go for a mooch around Clifton Village this bank holiday then consider stopping off for lunch at the Giggling Squid. This Thai restaurant is one of the best in Bristol. It serves Thai food with personality and flavour, and there’s something for everyone on the extensive menu. The restaurant’s aim was to bring the buzz and vibrancy of Thai mealtimes to the UK. The menu is full of a range of starters, light bites, curries, noodles, and stir fries. Lunchtime is particularly nice to go for a range of starters and share like tapas. The great food paired with vibrant and colourful décor make this an enjoyable and friendly place to enjoy a meal. 

Artist Residence is a boutique hotel known for its art-inspired rooms and welcoming atmosphere, inviting guests into a world where every corner tells a story. However, you don’t have to be staying at the venue to enjoy what it has to offer. You’re welcome to stop by the lounge bar with its rustic accents, and sip cocktails to celebrate the bank holiday for as long as you want to (it’s open all day). You can also fill your time with a ping pong competition, immortalise your memories in a photo booth, and visit the charming courtyard garden. If you fancy some food, there’s a selection of small plates and main dishes to choose from, plus plenty of desserts to treat yourself with. Artist Residence Bristol is more than just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to immerse oneself in a world of artistic expression, culinary excellence and warm hospitality. A truly hidden gem near the Portland Square.

If your idea of the perfect bank holiday is spending time with your family, you should consider stopping by The Bank Tavern. Offering an authentic British pub experience, this cosy place has a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere which is especially enjoyable when the weather gets sunnier. Additionally, it’s dog- and child-friendly so no one will have to be left behind. Just remember to ask for a bowl of water for your pet to keep it hydrated; it’s supposed to be pretty warm this year! The food is exceptional as the venue specialises in British dishes with a twist; they’re comforting and made from locally sourced ingredients. From delicious roast dinners to mouthwatering burgers bursting with flavour, there’s something for everyone on the menu.

Looking for a place where you can take your date this bank holiday? Nestled in the heart of Bristol lies Under the Stars, a venue that invites you to take part in a top-quality dining experience. Upon entering, guests are greeted by a vibrant but peaceful vibe; the inside is cosy thanks to rich wood decor with yellow and blue accents. There you can be in the present moment and appreciate your partner’s company. When it comes to food, the menu celebrates local ingredients and takes Mediterranean inspiration, offering a diverse selection of tapas prepared with care that are perfect for sharing. From meat dishes to vegetarian meals, everyone will find something for themselves. Since the venue is situated on the historic harbour, you can go for a walk by the river after dinner and then come back to the venue for a glass of wine or two. To celebrate the bank holiday in style and impress your date, look no further than Under the Stars.

How about kickstarting this holiday weekend with a unique kind of entertainment? Chance & Counters is a haven for board game enthusiasts and those who like trying something new. As the bank holiday weekend approaches, it’s the perfect time to gather your pals and immerse yourself in a world of friendly competition and nostalgic fun. With shelves stacked high with an impressive number of board games, including classics and modern gems alike, everyone will find something that strikes their fancy. Forget your phone, forget social media, and focus on being in the moment. Apart from the entertainment, we simply love the inviting atmosphere the place offers thanks to the friendly staff and hot drinks on the menu that will make you feel super cosy (although if you’re in the party mood, alcohol is available too). If you’re looking for a fun venue to visit this bank holiday, book in with Chance & Counters, and challenge yourself (and your pals).

The May Bank Holiday is your chance to put your feet up and do something special. In our opinion, one of the best ways to treat yourself is to visit a restaurant serving food that reaches the Michelin star level. Located on Corn Street, The Ox is more than meets the eye. Apart from its reputation as one of the best steak restaurants in Bristol, it attracts those looking for a casual but romantic atmosphere, which it owes to the dim-lighted interior and professional staff. When you enter the venue be prepared for your mouth to water. You’ll be greeted by the aroma of sizzling steaks and hearty dishes; the a la carte menu includes delights such as charcoal-roasted cauliflower with black garlic, white bean cassoulet, confit tomatoes, roasted hazelnut and parsnip crisp. If you’re visiting with a partner or a friend, we recommend the signature cured meat board. If you like it classy but relaxed, make sure you visit The Ox this holiday weekend.