What's on...

We know you’re not made of money and your version of going dining out will now be scoffing down some chicken nuggets in McDonalds on your hangover day or a greasy kebab after a messy night out but believe it or not, there will be an occasion where you will need to find a nice place to eat.

Dates, family visits, birthdays, anniversaries...anything. We guarantee you’ll need to refer to this guide at least once. Whether you need a full on meal or just a tasty little lunch, we’ve picked out the best.

Then you can get back to the drinking guide.

The Grain Barge

(the hearty lunch)

Originally a barge that was used to carry barley and wheat across the Severn Estuary, it was bought and refitted by the Bristol Beer Factory in 2007 and has been a huge success ever since. The Grain Barge now has two bars with light and airy dining areas looking out onto the harbour. Not long after opening, it was voted Venue’s “Best Bar in Bristol” and has established itself as one of the city’s friendliest, relaxed places to eat and drink. Grab a weekday lunch for only £6.50 and expect wholesome sandwiches, homemade pies and platters to share. Also try their Tapas and Sunday roast.

Cafe Amore

(for the worst hangover ever)

A personal favourite; it’s definitely a hidden gem amongst the chaos of Broadmead. The staff are the friendliest in Bristol, the prices are very reasonable and the décor is completely unique with the walls covered in old signs that have been collected over the years. It’s very wooden and quite dark but it all adds to the atmosphere. Expect to pay around £2 for a well-filled sandwich or pick from the impressive range of Panini’s, jacket potatoes or pasta dishes. Oh, and there’s a lot of homemade cake too. So grab a double espresso to zap away that headache and chomp down a cheesy Panini to sort out that grumbling stomach of yours.

Piccolino

(oh man, you’re going on a date...)

This is a modern chain but don’t let that take away from the charm. It’s vibrant (possibly down to its lime green and black interior) but chic and sleek. There’s plenty of options on the menu and specials board to choose from and prices aren’t too bad either. Pick at some olives to start and follow with one of their mouth wateringly tasty pasta dishes or a juicy steak and finish with their tasty tiramisu. It’s not understated in the slightest but that makes it a prime spot for dates where you want to impress but not overwhelm. They even have a cocktail list, if the night is going that way!

Prosecco

(your parents are visiting)

A traditional, quaint 38 seat restaurant situated in the trendy Clifton Village. Prosecco has won praise from the formidable Gordan Ramsey and his F-Word TV show and food journo’s around the UK. Considering it’s accolades, the price remains affordable offering great cuisine with value for money. The food is fantastic and there’s always an up to date menu full of irresistible dishes and specials board. It’s family friendly but civilised and has a cosy yet classy ambience too. It’s the kind of place you’ll go back to time and time again. And from experience parents love it!