Rhodes in October: Weather, Where to Stay & Things to Do

Rhodes in October: Weather, Where to Stay & Things to Do

Thursday, October 29, 2026

 

We spent five nights in Rhodes from 8–13 October, staying at Cook's Club Ialysos for a relaxing post-summer getaway. Before booking, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect from Rhodes in October. Would it still be warm enough to sunbathe, and would restaurants and attractions still be open outside the main summer season?

Luckily, we enjoyed plenty of sunshine, delicious food and time to explore the island, making it a lovely time of year for a more relaxed holiday.

In this guide, I'll be sharing what the weather was like in Rhodes in October, where we stayed, things to do, restaurants to try and my top tips for visiting Rhodes during the autumn months, including whether I'd recommend going back.

What is the weather like in Rhodes in October?

Retrospectively, I think we timed our holiday incredibly well! When I checked the weather for the week before our trip, it had been raining for a good five days. Luckily, when we arrived, we enjoyed mostly sunshine.

We had two particularly hot days on 10 and 11 October, when temperatures reached around 27°C, despite the weather app predicting 24°C. We made sure to secure some prime sunbathing spots, to make the most of the lovely weather!

However, it wasn't sunshine all week. On Monday 12 October, it rained for around two hours and was much cloudier, although temperatures still reached 24°C. We managed to squeeze in an hour or so of swimming in the afternoon before it became too cloudy.

It was raining again on 13 October as we waited at the airport to leave, so we really did seem to catch a lovely window of sunshine!

Of course, the weather can be unpredictable, particularly outside the main summer season, so I'd always recommend checking the forecast before you travel and being prepared for a bit of everything.

Where we stayed: Cook's Club Ialysos

We stayed at Cook's Club Ialysos, which was a great base for a relaxing break in Rhodes. I searched EasyJet Holidays for an adults-only, 4-star package holiday, and Cook's Club stood out thanks to its glowing reviews.

One of the biggest selling points was its location, just a 15-minute drive from Rhodes Airport. Our package included shared transfers, which were smooth and well organised. We were the first stop on the way to the hotel and the last stop on the return journey, so we couldn't complain!

There's plenty to do at Cook's Club, including yoga, aqua yoga and occasional entertainment. We liked having the option to join in with activities while still being able to enjoy a laid-back stay.

Additionally, there's a large supermarket less than a five-minute walk from the hotel, which was really handy for picking up snacks and drinks for a day by the pool or beach. It was also useful for grabbing anything we needed before heading out to explore Rhodes Old Town. Prices were reasonable, and we often popped out first thing in the morning before it got too hot!

Top tip: Cook's Club Ialysos also has an on-site shop selling a selection of snacks, drinks, souvenirs, beach bags and beachwear. However, we found it quite pricey compared to the local supermarket, so I'd recommend popping there if you're looking to save a bit of money.

Breakfast at Cooks Club

We opted for bed and breakfast, which I thought was a great choice. There was a good mix of continental options and cooked breakfast favourites, giving us plenty of choice before heading out to explore or spending the day by the pool.

We often had a bigger breakfast and skipped lunch, so we didn't get around to trying the hotel's lunch menu. If you're looking to keep costs down, this could be a good option, especially if you tend to have a larger breakfast!

The pool, rooms and entertainment

We spent a lot of our days relaxing by the pool, particularly when the weather was at its hottest. The pool was a good size, and there were plenty of sunbeds to choose from. However, as you'd probably expect, people did get down early to reserve their spots! What was slightly annoying was that some sunbeds would be reserved for two or three hours before people actually came down, as they'd head back to their rooms or go for breakfast first.

The entertainment was mainly centred around the pool, with activities and music on certain days rather than something happening constantly. There was evening entertainment, too, but our room was far enough away that we couldn't really hear it, which was actually nice when we wanted a quieter evening.

Our room was comfortable and clean, and the cleaners came in every day. They were also so friendly that we ended up making friends with one of them, and I've got her on Instagram and Facebook now. It's little things like that which can make a stay feel extra special.

We paid £540 per person, for our 5-night stay, including flights, 23kg of luggage, return airport transfers and the tourist tax which we paid upon arrival. I thought this was great value for money, especially as we only booked six weeks before travelling!

Overall, I'd recommend Cook's Club Ialysos to couples, friends or adults looking for a relaxing getaway with a bit of entertainment. I visited with my mum, and we both really enjoyed our stay. The hotel had a good mix of ages, so it definitely wasn't just aimed at younger travellers.

Getting around Rhodes: buses and taxis

We found it fairly easy to get around Rhodes during our five-night stay, and you don't necessarily need to hire a car if you're planning to explore the main areas.

We took a shared taxi into Rhodes Old Town and paid €5 per person one way. There were five of us in the taxi initially, before the driver picked up another two passengers. I thought this was pretty good value for the convenience, especially as we didn't have to worry about bus times.

We also used the local bus to get into Ialysos town centre, which cost us less than €5 per person. It was an affordable way to get around and handy for shorter journeys.

One useful tip: if you're staying at Cook's Club Ialysos, the hotel has bus and taxi timetables available at reception. The reception team can help you with ordering taxis, booking day trips to Lindos or simply figuring out when the next bus is into the Old Town. I found this really handy for visiting in October especially when services may differ outside the main summer season.

Overall, I'd recommend using a mix of buses and taxis depending on where you're going. Buses are a good budget-friendly option, while a shared taxi can be convenient when you'd prefer a more direct journey.

What we did in Rhodes

Usually, I'm a bit of an over-planner when it comes to holidays, and I love putting together an itinerary packed with things to see and do. However, this time, I wanted to take a different approach. After a busy few months, I was looking forward to having a proper break, switching off and coming home feeling rejuvenated rather than needing another holiday to recover!

We decided not to plan too much in advance and instead went with the flow, enjoying a mix of relaxing by the pool, exploring the local area and heading into Rhodes Old Town for a wander and some lovely food.

Although we didn't tick off everything on our list, I actually really enjoyed having the freedom to decide what we fancied doing each day. It was a lovely balance of downtime and exploring, and I'd definitely recommend leaving some space in your itinerary if you're looking for a more relaxing getaway.

Rhodes Old Town  

Did you know that Rhodes Old Town is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval walled cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

I'd definitely recommend carving out some time to wander through the charming, winding streets of the medieval Old Town. You'll find plenty of little tourist shops selling cute keepsakes and souvenirs, alongside historic buildings and picturesque corners to explore at your own pace.

If you have time, don't forget to visit the Palace of the Grand Master, too. We actually opted to walk around the outside of the medieval walls, mistakenly thinking, “Ah, it'll just be a short walk and a good photo opportunity. How long can it take?”

Well, we were SO wrong! It took us around 40 minutes to walk around the walls, and we arrived just as the sun was setting. The golden-hour light was beautiful, but it did mean we were rushing to finish our walk before it got dark.

My tip: Don't underestimate just how big the Old Town is! Give yourself plenty of time to explore, and if you want to visit the Palace or explore the historic streets properly, I'd recommend heading there earlier in the day rather than leaving it until sunset.

Best restaurants in Rhodes, Ialysos and Kremasti

One of my favourite parts of any holiday is discovering good places to eat, and Rhodes didn't disappoint! From traditional Greek tavernas and Italian pasta to Chinese food and dinner at our hotel, we enjoyed a mix of cuisines during our five-night stay. 

Here are the restaurants we'd recommend if you're visiting Rhodes, including a few options around Ialysos and Kremasti.

Cantina, Cooks Club Ialysos

We arrived quite late on our first evening in Rhodes, so we decided to keep things simple and grab a light meal at Cantina, the on-site restaurant at Cook's Club Ialysos. I ordered the mango and chicken salad, and it was absolutely delicious! The combination of flavours and dressing made it a really tasty option, and it was surprisingly filling, too.

The upstairs dining area had a lovely minimalist, boho-chic aesthetic, blending modern design with rustic Mediterranean touches. We sat outside at around 9pm, and it was a little chilly by then, so we were glad we'd brought our jackets!

Prices were reasonable, with chicken salads costing around €10–13, making it a good option for an easy dinner after travelling. This was the only evening we ate at the hotel, as we ventured out to try local restaurants for the rest of our stay. 

Kostas Village Taverna, Ialysos

On our first full day in Rhodes, we visited Kostas Village Taverna in Ialysos, which we'd heard great things about it on TikTok. We loved the traditional taverna feel, although we appreciate it may be a little touristy! It was still a lovely introduction to Greek dining, and we were really impressed by the portion sizes. You definitely get plenty of food for your money!

Of course, we couldn't leave without ordering dessert and a cup of tea afterwards. You can take the Brits out of the UK, but you can't take the UK out of the Brits! We had ice cream and pecan baklava, which was absolutely sensational.

I definitely underestimated how many cats there were in Rhodes, I didn't realise there would be so many! I was happy to hear from the locals that they were well fed and looked after.

Kabuki Canton, Kremasti

Kabuki Canton is a family-owned Asian fusion restaurant serving Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese dishes. It was one of my favourite places to eat during our trip! Just a five-minute walk from Cook’s Club Ialysos, we stumbled across it on our way to the supermarket and booked a table for that evening, although walk-ins are welcome too.

We shared sweet and sour chicken with rice, which arrived within around five minutes. Our main was around €13, excluding rice, so reasonably priced, although the cocktails were a little more expensive at €12 each.

I loved the decor, especially the koi fish outside and the large Buddha statue, which gave the restaurant a lovely atmosphere. With its beautiful interiors, tasty food and convenient location, I’d definitely recommend visiting if you’re staying nearby and fancy a change from Greek cuisine!

La Veranda, Rhodes Old Town 

La Veranda is a lovely spot in Rhodes Old Town, with panoramic views across the historic streets and castle. It has a 4.7-star Google rating, so we had high expectations, and it definitely didn't disappoint!

We both ordered the beef moussaka, which was my first time trying this classic Greek dish, and I absolutely loved it. I'll definitely be ordering it again! We also shared some garlic bread and had a Coke and water. The bill came to around €37 each, which wasn't too bad considering the location and views, although you can find cheaper places to eat if you're on a budget.

My tip: If you're visiting Rhodes in October, take a jacket if you're planning to eat on a rooftop terrace. It can get surprisingly chilly in the evenings, even after a lovely sunny day!

Il Borgo, Rhodes Old Town

A TikTok recommendation that definitely lived up to the hype! We visited Il Borgo on our last night in Rhodes, and it was such a lovely way to finish our trip.

Set within the medieval Old Town, it's a slightly more upmarket restaurant with a beautiful atmosphere and views. I had the tagliatelle pasta for €17, which was glorious, and we shared a garlic bread for €11 that came out looking more like a pizza. We were practically stuffed!

The service was good, and we managed to walk in without booking. We spent around €40 each, including our mains, shared starter and drinks.

I'd definitely recommend Il Borgo if you're looking for somewhere a little special to eat in Rhodes Old Town, and I'd happily return!

Top tips for visiting Rhodes in October

1. Visit in Early October for better weather

If you’re hoping to enjoy some sunshine alongside sightseeing, I’d lean towards early October rather than later in the month. We had plenty of warm, sunny weather during our stay, but the rain towards the end showed how quickly it can change.

Early October can be a good compromise between the summer heat and the quieter autumn season, although sunshine is never guaranteed.

2. Check seasonal opening times before you travel

October is outside the main summer season, so opening times and availability can vary. If there are particular restaurants, beach clubs or excursions you want to try, check that they're still operating before you go. This is especially worth doing if you're visiting later in October.

3. Leave some room in your itinerary

My biggest takeaway from this trip was that you don't have to plan every day. Having time to relax at the hotel, enjoy a long meal or explore somewhere spontaneously made the holiday feel much more restful.

Would I go to Rhodes in October again?

Overall, I'd definitely recommend visiting Rhodes in October if you're looking for a relaxing getaway with some late-season sunshine. We loved our five-night stay, from wandering through the charming streets of Rhodes Old Town to discovering lovely restaurants and enjoying some well-deserved downtime by the pool.

One of the biggest bonuses was travelling outside peak season, as our hotel package was slightly cheaper and the island felt like a great choice for a more laid-back escape. 

I'd happily return to explore more of this beautiful Greek island, particularly Lindos and the famous island of Symi. I'd also love to visit in September next time for a better chance of warmer, sunnier weather, although we were lucky to enjoy plenty of sunshine during our October trip.

If you're considering a Greek island holiday in autumn, Rhodes is definitely worth adding to your list. Just remember that the weather can be unpredictable, so I'd recommend packing for both warm days and cooler evenings.

If you're looking for more inspiration for your next European getaway, take a look at my guide to the best places to visit in Europe, where I share more ideas for your next adventure, including Crete in Greece.

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Review (2025): My Honest 11-Night Stay in Punta Cana

Lopesan Costa Bávaro Review (2025): My Honest 11-Night Stay in Punta Cana

Wednesday, December 31, 2025

 

Why the Dominican Republic?

Historically, I’ve always been a city break girl; I love the hustle and bustle of squeezing as much as possible into a few days of sightseeing, eating, and exploring.

 But this year, I knew I needed something entirely different. I was craving a relaxing holiday where I could come back to work rejuvenated and refreshed. 

My sister visited the Dominican Republic last year with a friend and came back absolutely raving about it. So when she mentioned that her friends had dropped out of her trip this year, I jumped at the chance to join.

I’d never done an all-inclusive holiday before, but I fancied a boujee, luxurious trip where everything was in one place.

We spent what felt like a decade researching the best all-inclusive resorts in Punta Cana before narrowing it down to two: Melia Wellness Resort and Lopesan Costa Bávaro. In the end, Lopesan won us over; we loved that it seemed to have the perfect mix of relaxation by day and energy by night, with live entertainment, multiple restaurants, and a great social vibe.

And it didn’t disappoint. The trip turned out to be the perfect cocktail of chill days and fun nights. We spent our mornings by the pool or on the beach, met new friends from around the world, and danced the night away at the on-site nightclub (which we ended up visiting three times!).

 About Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort

Lopesan Costa Bávaro is a large five-star all-inclusive resort in Punta Cana, just 20 minutes from the airport, ideal for anyone who doesn’t want a long transfer after an 8-hour flight.

The resort is beautifully designed and split into two main sections: a family-friendly area and an exclusive adults-only section known as “Unique by Lopesan.”

The adults-only “Unique” experience costs around £60–£100 more per night (depending on your room type and season) and includes access to private pools and beach areas, premium drinks, a private lounge and check-in, and an upgraded minibar, perfect for couples or anyone wanting a quieter, more elevated stay. 

We didn't book Unique; we stayed in the normal family area. However, we travelled in late September to early October and barely saw any children, so it still felt calm and relaxing.

During this time of year, it’s hurricane season in the Dominican Republic (typically June to November). We were lucky with the weather and only had one day of heavy rain, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning an autumn trip.

Our Room at Lopesan Costa Bávaro 

We stayed in a Junior Suite with Garden View and Balcony on the third floor, facing the back of the property. The bed was huge, easily a king, and the space felt clean, modern, and comfortable.

Our room was cleaned daily, and we had a balcony, mini fridge, and strong AC (essential in the Caribbean heat!). We did have one small issue after a heavy night of rain, a ceiling leak, but maintenance responded quickly and even sent us a bottle of champagne and fruit to apologise.

 Tea drinker tip: Rooms don’t come with kettles, and while you can request one with a refundable deposit, we opted to order hot water through room service instead. Room service usually takes an hour, and tipping is advised; I suggest a minimum of $5.

Where to Eat at Lopesan Costa Bávaro: Best Restaurants, Buffets & Tips

One thing to note before you dive into the food — you need to make reservations for all of the à la carte restaurants at Lopesan Costa Bávaro. You can only walk into the buffet-style restaurants without a booking.

💡 Tip: Download the Lopesan app once you check in — you can use it to book restaurants and order room service directly from your phone. It makes life so much easier, especially if you’re planning your meals around pool time or excursions.

We managed to try 6 out of the 7 restaurants during our stay (the only one we didn’t visit was the French restaurant, La Boheme).

Here’s a quick rundown of what we thought:

🍣 Inari – Japanese Hibachi & Sushi

This was our absolute favourite. I’d never been to a hibachi-style restaurant before, so the whole experience blew me away — the chefs cook right in front of you with full-on flair and fire. It’s a fun and interactive night, perfect for meeting new people.
We actually made friends with the family sitting next to us and ended up going to the on-site nightclub together afterwards 😂

The food itself was delicious, nothing too wild, but you could customise flavours with sauces for extra spice. We loved it so much, we went back again! I had the Chicken Pad Thai and some California rolls the second time, both of which were excellent.

🍝 Gondola – Italian Restaurant

Gondola was the Italian restaurant, and we had high hopes as it was our first night at the resort. Unfortunately, it ended up being one of the more disappointing meals of the trip.

I ordered the pesto gnocchi, which was perfectly edible but very mid — nothing memorable or standout. Overall, we found the food here to be quite bland, especially compared to some of the other restaurants on site. While the setting was nice, it wasn’t one we felt the need to return to.

🌮 El Charro - Mexican Restaurant

El Charro offers a lively, colourful take on Mexican cuisine, with classics like tacos, enchiladas, and guacamole in a fun, upbeat setting. It was one of the most social restaurants on the resort and had great energy.

I made a questionable choice and ordered the salmon (classic me) instead of going full Mexican, and instantly wished I’d chosen tacos. My sister, however, loved her meal. Dessert was a highlight, a chocolate sphere that melted when hot chocolate sauce was poured over it. A bit sickly, but such a nice touch.

Overall, a great option for a relaxed, vibrant evening with good vibes.

🥩 El Asador – Steakhouse

El Asador is located higher up in the resort, above some of the other restaurants, which means it offers beautiful elevated views across the pool and resort, something we really loved and definitely recommend visiting for sunset or photos!

The ambience was warm and inviting, with a cosy, rustic feel, but despite the great setting and well-presented dishes, we found the food itself to be quite average and not particularly memorable. Perhaps, it was just the steak we ordered, though!

🐟 Mareas – Seafood Restaurant

We started with a prawn starter, which was lush and wonderfully cheesy, but the main course didn’t hit the mark for us. It was chicken on the bone with vegetables and unfortunately had a slightly off smell — not what we expected from a five-star seafood restaurant. Dessert, however, was enjoyable, so overall we found the meal okay, but not outstanding.

Mareas is located upstairs, which makes it another great spot for photos or even just popping up for a sunset drink. The views over the resort and pools make it worth a visit, even if you’re just there for the ambience.

🍗 Caribbean beach BBQ buffet 

Now this… was my favourite part of the day. The Beach BBQ is open for lunch from around 11:30am to 4pm, and it’s the perfect mix of laid-back and delicious.

Think proper Caribbean-style food, grilled chicken, rice, fish, fresh salads, and veggies. The flavours were incredible, and the vibe was unbeatable. You can eat at the beachfront tables or take your plate back to your sun lounger by the pool (which became my little ritual).

I even had a few solo lunches here, just me, my plate of food, a cocktail, and the sea breeze. It was my favourite way to romanticise the quiet moments of the trip.

🍳 Breakfast Buffet

Mornings at Lopesan began with a buffet breakfast that offered a great selection to fuel your day, including eggs cooked to order, fresh fruit, pastries, pancakes, and my personal weakness: copious amounts of hash browns. I loved the relaxed vibe in the breakfast area, with sunlight streaming in and the gentle hum of holiday chatter around me.

For those with dietary requirements, there are clearly labelled sections for gluten-free and vegetarian options, which I really appreciated. I also liked that you could mix and match, grab a fruit platter and some pastries for a light breakfast, or go full-on hearty with eggs, bacon, and fresh bread.

It became a nice little ritual for us: coffee in hand, planning the day ahead, and soaking up the resort energy before heading to the pool or beach.

🍴 Food at Lopesan Costa Bávaro – Overall Thoughts

Overall, the food at Lopesan Costa Bávaro is what you’d expect from a large all-inclusive resort — most restaurants are decent but nothing too daring, so don’t expect bold spices or aromatic flavours. The meals are generally safe and well-presented, catering to a wide variety of tastes.

That said, a few places truly stood out for us:

• The Beach BBQ was hands-down our favourite — proper Caribbean-style food with fresh fish, grilled chicken, rice, and a great selection of vegetables. They swapped dishes out daily, so each lunch felt fresh and exciting, and we genuinely looked forward to it every day.

• Inari, the Japanese hibachi and sushi restaurant, was another highlight. We went back twice, the first time just enjoying the interactive hibachi experience, and the second time I had the chicken pad thai, which was delicious. Both times, the food and vibe were fantastic.

Everything else was fine and enjoyable, but these two spots were the meals we kept thinking about after the holiday!

Money and Currency

We brought about £250 worth of Dominican pesos, which was plenty for tips and small souvenirs for 11 nights. You can also bring US dollars, but we found pesos gave a better rate overall, especially for local shops and market stalls.

For context: $10 is roughly 600 pesos (about £6), though rates vary slightly day to day.

Most places at Lopesan Costa Bávaro and around Punta Cana accept card payments, but it’s always handy to have cash for tipping and taxis. ATMs are available in resort areas, but they often charge high withdrawal fees (around $5–$10 per transaction), so it’s worth bringing cash from home or exchanging at the airport.

Tipping isn’t mandatory but is very appreciated. We usually tipped $1–$2 (or around 100 pesos) for drinks or room service and $5–$10 for exceptional service, like housekeeping or dining staff.

If you plan to book excursions or spa treatments, I would bring more cash!

Excursion: Saona Island with TUI

To break up our resort time, we booked the Saona Island excursion through TUI (£60 each). The tour included a scenic catamaran ride, a stop at a natural lagoon with clear turquoise water, and a few hours on the island itself.

This was one of the highlights of our trip; no signal, just sunshine, music, and swimming in the Caribbean Sea. It reminded me of childhood days in Anguilla and was a perfect contrast to the resort life.

If you’re deciding between the standard or private version, the private trip is pricier (£100) but offers double the island time (around 4 hours) and access to a private section of the beach. If I were to go again, I’d definitely choose the private option. You spend quite a bit of the day travelling, so the extra time on the island would be worth it.

The drive from Lopesan Costa Bávaro to the departure dock took about an hour, with a short stop to change coaches along the way. We were the last resort to be picked up and one of the closest to the dock, which worked perfectly in our favour.

Is Lopesan Costa Bávaro Worth It?

After 11 nights at Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort, Spa & Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype. If you’re looking for a vibrant, upscale all-inclusive resort with great nightlife, friendly staff, and plenty of options for both relaxation and fun, it’s a great choice.

We loved the balance between luxury and liveliness — lazy beach days, energetic nights, and an overall social and welcoming atmosphere. Aside from a few small hiccups (and the lack of a kettle!), the experience exceeded our expectations.

Would we go back? Absolutely, 100% yes.
Next time, I’d just pack a travel kettle and stay even longer 🌴

Bristol Foodie Guide: 5 Best Places to Eat in 2026

Bristol Foodie Guide: 5 Best Places to Eat in 2026

Monday, September 15, 2025

 

(Photo credit: Yugo)

Bristol is one of the UK’s most exciting cities for food lovers, buzzing with culture, creativity, and some of the best restaurants in the South West. Whether you’re a local searching for a new favourite spot or a visitor discovering the city’s vibrant dining scene, there’s something to tempt every palate. From elegant eateries perfect for a special night out to affordable gems that won’t break the bank, Bristol offers a mix of flavours and experiences to suit every taste and budget.

To help you navigate this culinary landscape, I’ve put together a guide to the 5 best places to eat in Bristol in 2025, featuring a mix of must-try restaurants that truly showcase the city’s incredible foodie scene.

 

The Garden of Easton 🌿 

Tucked away in the heart of Easton, The Garden of Easton is a buzzing jungle-style café that has become a go-to for plant-based food lovers in Bristol. The menu is fully vegan, offering everything from hearty brunch plates to colourful lunches and indulgent cakes. Expect dishes like loaded sandwiches, fresh salads, and seasonal specials, with mains approximately priced between £10–£14 and cakes around £3.50–£5.

The café has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere, filled with greenery and a warm community vibe. While it’s more of a daytime spot for coffee, cake, or a casual lunch, they also serve dinners, making it a flexible choice if you want something low-key in the evening. It’s not the cheapest café in Bristol, but the food quality, friendly service, and unique setting make it well worth it.

Bosco Pizzeria 🍕

If you’re craving authentic Italian food in Bristol, Bosco Pizzeria is a must. They offer fantastic lunch deals (available 12–5pm) where you can enjoy two courses for £14 or three courses for £17, brilliant value considering the quality. Their pizzas are some of the best in the city. Two standouts are:
Funghi (£16.50) – topped with chestnut mushrooms, mascarpone, fior di latte mozzarella, thyme, parmesan, and a drizzle of truffle oil. Rich, earthy, and absolutely delicious.

Bosco  (£11.50)– a simple yet perfect combination of fior di latte mozzarella, tomato, grana padano, olive oil, and basil. Sometimes the classics really are the best.

Beyond pizza, you’ll find small plates, fresh pasta dishes, and classic Italian appetisers, all served in a warm, buzzing atmosphere. 

They’re based on White Ladies Road in Clifton, but if you’re up for a day out, you’ll also find a Bosco in Bath and Cheltenham. Don’t leave without trying their refreshing lemon sorbet, it’s the perfect way to end a meal.

Souk Kitchen 🥙

Souk Kitchen is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the best places to eat in Bristol in 2025. Based in Southville, just south of the river, this popular Bristol restaurant brings the vibrant flavours of the Middle East to the city with creative small plates and mezze, perfect for sharing! Expect colourful salads, spiced lamb and chicken dishes, falalfel and an array of dips that showcase bold and aromatic flavours. 

 Prices range from £5–£12 per plate, it’s an affordable mid-range choice, whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or settling in for a relaxed dinner.

To make it even better, Souk Kitchen often runs great-value lunch deals and features on First Table, meaning diners can enjoy up to 50% off and sample a wide variety of dishes without breaking the bank. 

Gambas 🍷 

Nestled in Bristol’s vibrant Wapping Wharf, Gambas is a Spanish tapas bar that perfectly combines flavour-packed food with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. With outdoor seating, heaters, and cozy blankets for cooler months, it’s a top spot year-round. 

The menu features fresh seafood and high-quality small plates designed for sharing, with prices typically between £6 and £12 per dish. Larger plates like paella or grilled fish are around £14–£22, placing Gambas in the mid-range to slightly upscale category. Pair your meal with a glass from their curated wine list, starting at £5, and you’ve got one of the city’s best spots for Spanish cuisine. Gambas strikes the perfect balance between lively energy and relaxed comfort, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring Bristol’s foodie scene.

Cappadocia 🏜️ 

Cappadocia is one of the most popular Turkish restaurants in Bristol, bringing rich flavours and a bustling atmosphere to Baldwin Street. First opening in Bath in 2019, the family-run restaurant expanded to Bristol in 2023 and quickly became a city favourite. With colourful décor and a welcoming vibe, it’s the perfect spot for everything from date nights to group dinners.

Their bottomless brunch is a big draw: £39 per person for a starter, main, and unlimited beer, wine, or prosecco, or £49 to include cocktails and mocktails. Each sitting lasts two hours, making it ideal for a fun weekend outing. They also offer set menus for larger bookings, making it a great choice for celebrations.

For authentic Turkish food in Bristol with a stylish twist, Cappadocia is a must-visit, and if you’re in Bath, their other restaurant is just as popular.

Top tips for Dining Out in Bristol 

Bristol’s restaurant scene is thriving, so a few insider tips can help you make the most of your foodie adventures. It’s a good idea to book ahead for popular spots, as restaurants like Bosco, Cappadocia, and Gambas can get busy, especially on weekends and evenings. Many places also offer lunch specials or First Table discounts, which are perfect for sampling multiple dishes at a lower cost. 

Planning for the season can make a big difference. Outdoor seating is a highlight at Gambas in the warmer months, while heaters and blankets keep you cosy in winter. If you’re dining out with friends or celebrating a big occasion, consider group-friendly options like Cappadocia’s bottomless brunch or mezze sharing at Souk Kitchen. 

Finally, don’t just stick to the city center: Bristol has amazing food tucked away in Easton, Southville, Bedminster, Clifton, and Wapping Wharf, so wander a little further to discover those hidden gems.

Honourable mentions

St Nick’s Market – St Nick’s is an eclectic hub of street food and independent vendors in the heart of Bristol, perfect for casual, budget-friendly dining. St Nick’s offers a variety of cuisines, from Eat a Pitta’s fresh falafel wraps (£5–£7) to Asian-inspired bowls (£6–£9) and seasonal small plates from other stalls. Perfect for a relaxed lunch with colleagues or a bite on the go.

Pasture – Pasture offers seasonal, locally sourced dishes in Redcliffe, making it a more upmarket dining experience for special occasions or a refined night out.

Saffron – Saffron brings rich Mediterranean cuisine to Clifton Village, offering bold, flavour-packed dishes made with high-quality ingredients. Saffron’s menu features fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vibrant vegetarian options, with mains generally priced between £15 and £25, making it a mid-range to slightly upscale dining option. It's an ideal spot to impress a friend visiting Bristol for the first time!

Use this Bristol Food Guide 2025 to plan your next dining experience and discover new cuisines across the city. From brunch to dinner, these recommendations highlight some of the best places to eat in Bristol right now. So, grab a fork and start eating your way through the city. 

For even more affordable options, don't miss my earlier guide, Eating out in Bristol on a budget, packed with tips for wallet-friendly options.