The top dining options for Father’s Day in Bristol

To celebrate Father’s Day in style, head to Snobby’s – an Italian wine bar serving up pizzas, small plates, and great drinks, in a laidback and chic environment. Kick off the afternoon with an outdoor aperitivo on the terrace and a selection of small plates, which include the likes of arancini with pistachio, saffron and parmesan fondu, and grilled tender stem broccoli with fennel sausage. Dads will love the pizza here too: all handmade in-house, using quality ingredients, with plenty of vegan and veggie options to boot. Accompany the meal with a glass of one of the finely selected wines and relax into the chilled atmosphere.

For dads who can’t think of anything better than a prime cut of steak, cooked to perfection, and served with a range of delectable side dishes – this one’s for them. The Ox is a bastion of good food and drink, and since opening in 2013, it has grown a reputation as the best steak restaurant in Bristol. Each Father’s Day The Ox offers every dad a free beer, wine, or cocktail to accompany their meal.

Begin the celebrations with a couple of small plates to share (we particularly like the pan seared scallops and hickory smoked sticky ribs), before launching into one of the hearty mains. From chargrilled pork chop served with a mushroom, parsley, and caper sauce, to a 10oz ribeye dry-aged by Buxton Butchers of Winterborne, there’s enough to please all palates. If it’s just you and your dad dining, why not opt for the set menu for two? For £50 per person, you’ll be treated to ‘The Ox cured meat board’ (with salami, coppa, and pork and pistachio terrine), a bone in rib or T-bone served with triple cooked chips, leeks, and greens, and an ice cream sharing board. What’s not to like?

French restaurant chain Côte has established itself as a bit of a stalwart for classic, all-pleasing cookery at brilliant prices. The extensive menu means that all dads – even the fussiest – will leave satisfied. From seafood linguine for those who enjoy fish and Breton chicken and frites for dads who have a taste for classic fare, to ribeye steaks, vegan risottos, and everything in between, Côte is a (yummy) safe bet. On Father’s Day the restaurant offers a two- or three-course set menu, both coming in at under £20. Good food and good prices? Yes please!

Very few dads can say no to a burger, not least a Three Brothers burger! Indulge in a lip-smacking buttermilk fried chicken burger or even the Smokey bro burger, served with applewood cheddar, sweet-cured bacon, BBQ relish, and crispy onions. Ramp up your feast with a selection of Three Brothers side dishes; the chilli cheese fries and deep-fried pickles with ranch dressing will certainly do the trick. If you can, leave room for dessert, and finish off your Father’s Day celebrations with an ultra-thick Oreo shake, and thank us later!

Located in the heart of Bristol, Picaro Tapas is the perfect place to take your dad for a special Father’s Day celebration. The restaurant offers a delicious selection of tapas dishes, inspired by the bold flavours of Spain. From the classic patatas bravas to the succulent pork belly with cider sauce, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, with friendly staff who are happy to help you choose the perfect dish. Don’t forget to try one of the signature cocktails, such as the refreshing G&T made with Basque gin! 

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience this Father’s Day, then head to littlefrench, a sophisticated French restaurant near the leafy Westbury Park. The menu is inspired by classic French cuisine, with a range of delicious dishes that are sure to impress. From the delicate foie gras terrine to the succulent beef bourguignon, each dish is beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. The restaurant has a chic and elegant interior, with attentive staff who are happy to help you choose the perfect wine to pair with your meal. A Bristol must-visit!

For a laid-back Father’s Day celebration, head to The Hobgoblin pub. The Hobgoblin has a cool and quirky interior, chock-a-block with eclectic artwork and vintage furniture. The menu is equally impressive, an explosion of delicious dishes that are sure to please any foodie dad. Try the juicy pork belly with roasted apples and cider gravy, or the hearty vegetarian shepherd’s pie — neither will disappoint! With a great selection of craft beers and cocktails too, the Hobgoblin is the perfect place to toast to your dad this Father’s Day.

For a Father’s Day celebration with a difference, look no further than the Four Wise Monkeys! The restaurant offers a range of delicious Asian-inspired dishes, from spicy Korean chicken wings to indulgent Japanese wagyu beef burgers. The menu is designed to be shared, making it the perfect place to gather with family and friends to celebrate Father’s Day. The restaurant has a cool and contemporary interior, with a range of jazzy artwork and a buzzing atmosphere. Don’t leave without sampling one (or two!) of the delicious cocktails — our favourite is the zingy Yuzu Collins.

If you don’t know what kind of food your father likes the most, we have the option just for you. If you want to try traditional Chinese and Indian cuisine under one roof, head straight to Rock Salt. And it’s not just buffet-style westernised food; the dishes are the most authentic you can try in Bristol, and all have bold, unforgettable flavours. Whether you already love the cuisine or it’s going to be your first experience, you and your dad will find something for themselves. For example, Chinese starters include some classic options such as dim sum with pork and vegetable spring rolls, plus more exciting dishes such as Mongolian chicken in a tomato and chilli sauce. Indian starts feature all-time favourites like tandoori chicken tikka.

You can order a few small plates to sample or go for one of the main dishes. If you decide to do the latter, we recommend you try one of the restaurant’s specials, including a delicious baby aubergine with tomatoes and spices in a rich sauce. The interior is airy with vibrant accents and staff are always ready to help. It’s a perfect choice for Father’s Day if you want to try something new in a relaxed setting and support an independent business at the same time.