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I’m here to share 10 of the most unique restaurants in the Cotswolds. From countryside pubs to elegant fine dining, discover the best spots to eat in this beautiful region.
If you’re planning a trip to the Cotswolds, one of the most beautiful places in Europe, you’re in for a delicious adventure. I’ve spent countless weekends exploring this gorgeous region, and I’m excited to share some hidden gems with you. These are the spots that have wowed me with their charm and unique menus.
I’m a foodie at heart, and there’s nothing I love more than finding unique restaurants that offer something special. From cozy pubs to vibrant bistros, the Cotswolds, a gem in the English Countryside, has it all. Trust me, you’re going to want to add these places to your must-visit list during your stay in England.
Ready to uncover the best and quirkiest places to eat in the Cotswolds? Let’s explore my top 10 favorite restaurants that you simply can’t miss on your next trip.
At a glance: The best places to eat in the Cotswolds
Before we begin, let me share some of the standout spots you absolutely shouldn’t miss. Here are some of the best restaurants in the Cotswolds for various dining experiences:
- Best for fine dining: 5 North Street
- Best for international flavors: Vegetus
- Best for seafood: Henry’s Seafood Bar & Grill
- Best for a romantic dinner: Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria
Now that we’ve covered some of the highlights, let’s get into the detailed reviews.
1. Wilder
Located in the heart of Nailsworth, Wilder offers a dining experience like no other. Open Wednesday through Sunday, this spot is all about letting go and enjoying a pre-designed menu that promises to surprise and delight.
At Wilder, there’s no need to stress over choices. The passionate team has curated a seasonal, ever-evolving tasting menu that’s inspired by local producers, foraged ingredients, and even their wildest food dreams. It’s an eight-course adventure, crafted to make you savor every moment.
Wilder’s drink pairings are as thoughtfully selected as the food. Collaborating with local wine suppliers, they offer wines that perfectly complement each dish. And if you’re skipping alcohol, their soft drinks flight is just as impressive. You’ll feel completely catered to, no matter your preference.
For a special treat, don’t miss their Five Course Champagne Brunch every Saturday at 11:30 am. Again, no menu here—just trust in the chefs to deliver an unforgettable experience.
Bookings are essential, and they’re great about accommodating allergies and dietary requirements. Just let them know in advance, and they’ll make sure your meal is perfect.
Wilder is all about the unexpected. Come with an open mind and a big appetite, and you’re sure to leave with a happy heart and a satisfied palate. It’s one of the best places to eat in the Cotswolds, without a doubt.
2. The Porch House
Let me introduce you to The Porch House in Stow-on-the-Wold. It’s a true gem in the Cotswolds and England’s oldest inn, dating back to 975 AD. This place is like stepping into a cozy historical dream, with modern comforts that make it a must-visit and one of the most Instagrammable places in the UK.
I absolutely love how The Porch House caters to all tastes with its fresh and premium ingredients. They serve up delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. I’m a big fan of their rustic restaurant setting, but the garden terrace is perfect on a sunny day. The conservatory adds a touch of elegance, and the pub area is great for a laid-back meal with friends.
Walking into The Porch House, you can feel the centuries of stories in its walls, yet the menu is fresh and exciting. It’s this mix of old and new that makes dining here such a unique experience.
Stow-on-the-Wold is one of my favorite places to visit in the Cotswolds, and having The Porch House there is like the cherry on top. If you’re hunting for the best restaurants in the Cotswolds, make sure this historic inn is on your list. You won’t regret it!
3. Vegetus
Vegetus in Cheltenham is a plant-based paradise that serves up incredible Middle Eastern food. From the moment I walked in, I felt like part of the family. The chef and owner greeted me with the biggest smile and so much energy. He walked me through the specials and gave me fantastic recommendations.
The food at Vegetus is something special. I had a full breakfast, smoothie, turmeric latte, and even took home some delicious vegan baklava—all for just over £30. Talk about great value for money!
Each dish is cooked fresh in a small kitchen, so don’t rush. Give yourself at least an hour to enjoy the flavors and ambiance. Trust me, it’s worth the wait.
One thing that stands out about Vegetus is the genuine care and passion behind every dish. It’s one of those quirky places to eat in the Cotswolds that you absolutely need to experience. The flavors are bold, the portions are generous, and you’ll leave feeling completely satisfied.
I can’t wait to go back and try more of their amazing offerings. You’ll leave Vegetus with a full stomach and a happy heart. It should be at the top of your list of things to do in the Cotswolds.
4. Henry’s Seafood Bar & Grill
If you’re a lover of seafood, I can’t recommend Henry’s Seafood Bar & Grill in Cirencester enough.
The food here is fantastic. While seafood is the star, they also have dry-aged steaks and an excellent roast pork belly that’s worth a try. I had the sea bass, and it was cooked to perfection. And believe me, you have to start with the toasted bread with Marmite butter. It’s unexpectedly delicious!
Henry’s has a lovely outdoor space perfect for summer drinks. Picture fire pits, twinkling lights, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s one of those places that makes you want to linger and soak in the good vibes.
Service is top-notch too. The staff are friendly and attentive. They also offer veggie options, which I haven’t tried yet, but it’s nice to know they cater to different tastes.
If you’re searching for unique places to eat in the Cotswolds, Henry’s should be high on your list. Great food, awesome drinks, and a killer ambiance make it a must-visit spot.
5. Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria
Located in the heart of Nailsworth, Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria brings a genuine taste of Italy to the Cotswolds.
As you approach, it might look like just another place with its green, white, and red exterior. But the moment you step inside, you’re greeted like a VIP. The Italian staff are warm, friendly, and go out of their way to make you feel special.
The atmosphere is delightfully Italian, with pictures from various Italian locales, and strings of chillies and garlic hanging around. The small bar is packed full of colorful wine bottles. It reminded me of a village taverna in Sicily!
I went for the tortellini ragu, and my partner had the tuna steak. Both dishes were cooked to perfection, bursting with flavor. The portions are generous too, which is always a plus. It’s easy to see why this place is a hit with both locals and visitors.
Amalfi is one of the coolest restaurants in the Cotswolds where you can enjoy authentic Italian cuisine in a welcoming setting. If you’re in the area and craving some Italian comfort food, this is the spot for you.
6. Waterside Kitchen & Bar
Right on the water at Cotswold Water Park near Cirencester, Waterside Kitchen & Bar is a fantastic spot for Asian fusion. This place blew me away! If you’re into Asian food, you’re in for a treat.
We tried the beef teriyaki, Katsu chicken, tempura vegetables, and sticky rice. Every dish was absolutely delicious. The flavors were spot-on.
The restaurant has two main sections: an indoor area and a covered terrace. Initially, we thought we’d sit inside, but the terrace won us over. On a warm day, it’s the perfect spot. They also have an outdoor seating area in the garden, which looked lovely.
What I love most about Waterside is the combination of great food and a beautiful setting. Sitting by the water with a tasty meal and good company is an experience I highly recommend. It’s one of those unusual places to eat in the Cotswolds that you don’t want to miss.
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience with fantastic food and a great atmosphere, Waterside Kitchen & Bar should definitely be on your list. I can’t wait to go back and try more from their menu!
7. Habibah
If you’re in Cheltenham and craving some incredible Arabic food, Habibah is the place to be.
I had the falafel wrap, and it was out of this world. The falafel had a perfectly crispy shell and were slightly warm inside, just how I like it. The hummus tasted authentic and was delicious with the harissa sauce and mango pickle. Plus, the bread is baked fresh in-house, which makes a huge difference.
The interior is beautifully decorated with authentic Palestinian pieces, photos, and art. It really adds to the overall experience and makes you feel like you’re somewhere special. I also tried the basboussa for dessert and loved it. And this is coming from someone who usually doesn’t go for vegan food, so you know it’s good!
What really stood out to me was the warm and friendly staff. They make you feel welcome from the moment you walk in. It’s one of those places where you can tell they genuinely care about their customers.
Habibah mainly caters to vegans, offering some of the healthiest options available when eating out. It’s one of my favorite places to eat in Cheltenham that you need to check out. The food is flavorful and satisfying, even for non-veg eaters like me!
8. La Bobina
On my last trip to the Cotswolds, I stumbled upon La Bobina, a fantastic Spanish Tapas & Wine Bar in Cirencester. We didn’t have a booking but managed to snag a table, and I’m so glad we did!
The tapas here are the real deal, possibly the best I’ve had outside of Spain. The monkfish was the highlight, cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. And don’t get me started on the ham croquettes—they were melt-in-your-mouth good!
La Bobina is set in a beautiful old building that’s retained its original charm. The ambiance adds so much to the dining experience. It feels like you’ve stepped into a little slice of Spain right in the heart of the Cotswolds.
The staff were fantastic, making us feel welcome and ensuring we had a great time. The place has a lovely, relaxed vibe that’s perfect for enjoying good food and wine with friends.
La Bobina is a delightful unique restaurant in the UK that offers a true taste of Spain. You won’t be disappointed!
9. Cucina di Amalfi
Tucked away in Minchinhampton, Cucina di Amalfi is a delightful cafe and Italian restaurant that you shouldn’t miss. The warm, welcoming atmosphere hits you as soon as you walk in. I was instantly impressed by the variety of lunches on offer.
The carbonara here is a standout. The lardons were perfectly crispy, adding a wonderful texture to the creamy sauce. If you have a sweet tooth, the cake selection will blow you away. Choosing just one is a real challenge, but I was particularly fond of the cherry cake!
The staff at Cucina di Amalfi are genuinely friendly and helpful. It’s clear they take pride in what they do, and it reflects in the quality of the food and service.
Cucina di Amalfi has quickly become a favorite of mine in the Cotswolds. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed bite to eat, with delicious food and a lovely atmosphere that invites you to linger just a little longer.
10. 5 North Street
Last on our list of unique Cotswolds restaurants is 5 North Street in Winchcombe. This cozy, little gem is run by a lovely husband and wife team and is adored by locals. It may be small in size, but it’s huge in charm and character.
I was blown away by the seven-course tasting menu here. Each dish was carefully thought out and absolutely delicious. The canapés and homemade bread were just the beginning of a truly unforgettable meal. We decided to skip the cheese course, and they adjusted the bill accordingly – how thoughtful is that?
The atmosphere is relaxed, yet elegant. It’s a perfect spot for a special occasion or just a lovely meal out. The modern French cuisine really shines with regional ingredients and classic combinations. It’s no wonder they’ve earned a Michelin star!
Dining at 5 North Street feels like being welcomed into a friend’s home. The personal touch and attention to detail make it a standout in the Cotswolds. If you’re in Winchcombe, you absolutely have to give it a try.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the Cotswolds’ best restaurants
Still unsure about where to eat in the Cotswolds? Our FAQs have all the answers.
What food is the Cotswolds famous for?
The Cotswolds is famous for its local produce and traditional dishes. You’ll find plenty of delicious offerings like Gloucestershire Old Spot pork, Stinking Bishop cheese, and Bibury trout. Don’t miss the famous Cotswold cream teas!
What is the most unique restaurant in the Cotswolds?
The most unique restaurant in the Cotswolds has to be Wilder in Nailsworth. With an ever-evolving tasting menu inspired by local producers and foraged ingredients, it promises a dining experience like no other, making it one of England’s must-visit places.
Can I eat international cuisine in the Cotswolds?
Absolutely! The Cotswolds offers a range of international cuisines. From the plant-based Middle Eastern delights at Vegetus to the authentic Italian flavors at Amalfi Restaurant & Pizzeria, and the Spanish tapas at La Bobina, there’s something to satisfy every palate, making it a must-visit for European experiences.
