The anticipated day has finally arrived: your parents are coming. You’ve cleaned your kitchen, tidied your room, and washed (or at least hidden away) the mounting pile of dirty laundry on your bedroom floor. Only one thing remains to do – choosing a restaurant. There’s no point wasting your decision; don’t pick somewhere you’d go with friends on a regular basis. And most importantly, DON’T pick anywhere you might be seen by lots of other students. If you’re lucky enough to have your parents in Bristol for a meal, here’s a guide to the best restaurants to ask them to take you to…
AQUA
Fantastic for lunch or dinner on Whiteladies Road, Aqua’s extensive menu means that even the fussiest parent will find something to order. The huge windows give the restaurant a lovely spacious feeling, especially on a sunny day, and the desserts are particularly good. If you want to venture further from the university, there’s also one in the Harbourside.
(Photo credit: Total Guide to Bristol)
PRIMROSE CAFÉ
If your parents are more interested in visiting the scenic Clifton Village, or even going for a walk across the bridge, Primrose Café is always a worthy option. It serves great brunch and lunch, with plenty of vegetarian options and a casual atmosphere, which it gains from being an independent café as opposed to a restaurant chain. Beware, it gets very busy on a Sunday.
STEAK OF THE ART
My own dad’s personal favourite, this hidden gem is located just behind the aquarium and is more than just a punny name. In addition to their delicious steaks, the walls are covered in unique artwork, some of which is available to buy, and their tables and chairs are coated with vibrant and colourful designs.
(Photo credit: Steak of the Art Bristol)
THE GIGGLING SQUID
A restaurant that lives up to its claim of serving ‘staggeringly good Thai’, the Giggling Squid in Clifton Village is an excellent choice if you’re a fan of Asian food. Serving Thai cuisine with a contemporary twist, they provide a tapas lunch menu, or a full a la carte menu at dinner, with specific menus for gluten-free food and vegetarians. The pad-thai isn’t to be missed!
THE LIDO
A restaurant like you’ve probably never seen before, the Lido in Clifton overlooks a stunning outdoor pool and spa that is available for use with one of their ‘Swim and Eat’ packages (if your parents are feeling generous!). If not, their incredibly presented and unique dishes are always worth the visit, as is their delightful afternoon tea.
(Photo credit: The Lido Bristol)
WILKS
Tucked away in the student area of Redland, this Michelin star restaurant on Chandos Road definitely delivers on the food front. With innovative recipes and dishes served up by experienced chef James Wilkins, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The best thing about the place is that despite the luxury food, the atmosphere is informal and relaxed; you’ll feel very at home.
ANNA CAKE COUTURE
If it’s just some coffee and cake you’re after, be sure to check out Anna. Not quite the same feel as a quick Mocha Mocha with your friends, the coffees are beautifully presented and the teas served in special timed brewing pots. Don’t miss the macaroons – the white chocolate and passion fruit flavour is a must-have.
(Photo credit Martin Booth, 24/7 Bristol)
COWSHED
An obvious but well-loved choice; Cowshed is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal with your family. Conveniently located on Whiteladies road, its’ rustic and sophisticated vibe makes it an ideal setting in which to spend an afternoon, especially if you’re a meat lover. Don’t forget about the great value lunch menu!
THE SOCIAL
Want to show your parents something a bit more authentically ‘Bristol’? Head to The Social in Stokes Croft for some delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. It caters for vegetarians and vegans, and has a lovely outdoor seating area, perfect for a meal and a few drinks in the summer.
THE GLASSBOAT
Finally, if you’re looking for somewhere for a special occasion then this is the place. The traditional English restaurant floating on the river Avon is guaranteed to impress your parents, as well as giving them a view of the famous Harbourside at the same time. They offer sharing platters of roast chicken or lamb, superb for a Sunday lunch or unique dinner.
(Photo credit: 365 Bristol)
Written by Samantha Mendel