Bristol's Amazing Weekend Brunches and Late Breakfasts
Bristol, the largest city in the south west of the UK, is home to a fantastic selection of restaurants, parks, and cultural venues. With two buzzing universities, galleries, gorgeous Georgian architecture, Banksy, plus Brunel’s iconic suspension bridge, there’s plenty to see and do. All that exploring requires lots of energy however, so read our updated guide to where to get the best breakfast or brunch before exploring Bristol.
Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.
Hotel du Vin & Bistro
Straight from Hotel du Vin & Bistro comes the gift of Le Brunch – a combination of classic Sunday roast dishes, mixed with additional French flair. While not cheap, the exciting choice of fresh seafood, crustaceans, charcuterie, pâtés, rillettes and a selection of salads and vegetables, Hotel du Vin is a must try for every seasoned brunch lover. For any foodie, a serving of fantastically prepared French food and additional jazz music is perhaps the perfect way to start the weekend.
Mud Dock
The Mud Dock café is all about brunch. From their award-winning bacon baguettes to the selection of freshly made pastries, or even the toss-up between a bloody mary and a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice, this typically Bristolian deli (and bike shop) exports a whole new meaning of the word ‘brunch’. Situated in the city’s busy docks region, Mud Dock takes influence from Spain and its love of markets to inspire an original and exceptional brunch menu, prepared by chefs of from all over the globe. Guests can either relax in the rustic Spanish-themed café or nip downstairs and wander through the bike shop.
Restaurant Harvey Nichols
Sat in the middle of Bristol’s multi-million pound shopping centre, Cabot’s Circus, Harvey Nichols dominates the skyline. As well as being famous for fashion, this iconic shop also houses a fantastic restaurant, complete with brunch and breakfast staples. The Bristol restaurant is situated on the second floor, and offers stunning views across the city, where guests can while away a few hours before being served food by award-winning executive chef Louise McCrimmon. Dishes include sardine and tomato crostini, buttermilk and banana pancakes, and grilled chorizo with beans and a deep-fried egg. There is also a selection of great cocktails to wash down these delicious dishes with.
Rosemarino
A relatively new venture in the heart of the city, Rosemarino in Clifton is the first of two family owned cafes that serve great brunch and breakfast. As well as food, the café puts on art exhibitions to show off the best in local artistic talent, with the current exhibit including work from Kelly Stewart, an artist who uses her time in Bristol to sketch local landmarks. Dishes include poached eggs, granola, and a ‘legendary’ one-pan wonder. This includes a number of breakfast staples, including bacon, mushrooms and tomatoes, topped with two fried eggs and melted cheese. For the exceptionally hungry, toast can be added for a little extra charge.
The Rummer
Situated in All Saints Lane, near the famous St Nicholas’ Market, is The Rummer. Hard to find, The Rummer has a dedicated clientele that regularly fill its low vaults and art deco dining room. Originally a rough around the edges skinhead pub, the venue is now one of the South West’s most upmarket places to eat and, as such, the brunch is a must-taste experience. The brunch menu includes eggs Benedict, Royale and Florentine, as well as kedgeree – a dish of rice and kippers – and, of course, the obligatory full English breakfast, complete with bacon, sausages and rich blood pudding.
St Werburghs City Farm Café
Being the capital of the West Country, perhaps it is not surprising to find a farm bang-smack in the middle of Bristol. This City Farm Café also has a plethora of fantastic brunch options, due in part to the steady development that has taken place over the last 34 years. As well as serving great food, the farm has served the local population by offering work experience and volunteering opportunities for people from deprived backgrounds. The award-winning café at St Werburghs City Farm includes a delicious wholesome brunch that is organic and fair-trade, including eggs, meat, vegetables and salad from St Werburghs City Farm.
Watershed Café Bar
When is a brunch bar not a brunch bar? When it is also an independent cinema. The Watershed Café Bar is one of the city’s most popular venues, perched above the floating harbour, a wonderfully bohemian chance to take in some great brunch dishes. The cinema opened in 1982, and is a cross-artform venue that produces, shares, and showcases exemplary cultural ideas and talent. The Watershed’s cultural programme of films, events and festivals means there is always something going on to break the boundaries of imagination for any avid cinema-goer and brunch-eater. The café and bar is joined by three cinema screens, with excellent food in a family friendly environment.