Best restaurants in Lincoln

Set in the East Midlands, this city's cobbled streets and medieval buildings are now home to some of Lincoln’s best restaurants. Whether you're searching for something laid back and affordable or want to dress up for a swanky meal out, Lincoln has plenty to offer you. The city is famous for its cheese, beers and delicious pork sausages, and you'll find many of these treats on its restaurants' menus. We’ve pulled together a list of the best restaurants in Lincoln, so that if you’re looking to visit the area, you’ll know where to turn.

Updated on 14 June 2024

This is an underrated city in terms of its food scene, and we think restaurants in Lincoln could do with a bit more credit. There are a great deal of pubs in Lincoln that make visitors feel like locals, each offering guests a warm welcome and friendly service. Whilst fancier restaurants in Lincoln aren’t scarce, you’ll find many opportunities for relaxed fine dining; offering guests a chance to enjoy a slap up meal without fuss and frills. However, if you’re in the mood to celebrate with white-tablecloth-worthy dining, fine wines, and silver service you’ll find our collection of the best restaurants in Lincoln caters to that too.

Once upon a time, Lincoln was a big Roman town and then served as a settlement for retired legionary soldiers. Today, though, many people visit Lincoln for its stunning cathedral, where the Gothic architecture made it the world's tallest building for over 200 years. There's plenty more to do in this medieval city, even if you aren't much of a history fan. There is a range of fun things to do – from shopping and sightseeing to catching a live music performance or comedy show.

The Jews House Restaurant

The Jews House Restaurant

15 The Strait, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN2 1JD

Found in a 12th-century home, The Jews House Restaurant is a flavour-driven dining experience in the form of tasting and set menus. Expect confident bold dishes and a considered wine flight perfect for celebratory occasions.

£30 - £49
Modern European
The Old Bakery Restaurant

The Old Bakery Restaurant

26 - 28 Burton Road, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN1 3LB

A smart-casual restaurant by Lincoln Castle, The Old Bakery blends Victorian features and contemporary decor to create a charming setting for precise modern European menus. Plus, it’s a not-for-profit; every penny goes to The Old Bakery catering school.

Modern European
The Lounge at Lincoln Hotel

The Lounge at Lincoln Hotel

Eastgate, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN2 1PN

Overlooking Lincoln Cathedral, The Lounge at The Lincoln Hotel offers solutions to every dining need: coffee and pastries, afternoon tea, dinner menus, and impressive Sunday roasts. It's a light and modern space with British character.

£30 - £49
British
Afternoon tea
The Tower Restaurant

The Tower Restaurant

38 Westgate, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN1 3BD

Found within The Tower Hotel, this is a restaurant known for its boundary-bending menu of seasonal dishes led by the very best produce available and presented with artistic precision. It’s best for dates, celebrations, and notable occasions.

Modern European
Cafe Zoot

Cafe Zoot

5 Bailgate, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN1 3AE

Continental in style but Linconian in character, Cafe Zoot offers a varied menu of local flavours and international delicacies. A great spot for casual dining, it offers everything from wholesome breakfasts, to pizzas and pies.

£30 - £49
British
International
Huckleberry

Huckleberry's Bar and Grill

30 Clasketgate, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN2 1JS

Inspired by the flavours of Texas, Memphis, and Kansas City, Huckleberry’s Bar and Grill brings smoky, sizzling and spicy flavours to the city centre, along with a range of craft beers and premium spirits.

£30 - £49
Barbecue
The Bronze Pig

The Bronze Pig

4 Burton Road, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN1 3LB

A modern restaurant specialising in locally sourced Lincolnshire produce, The Bronze Pig is a quirky dining room specialising in dishes with a traditionally Mediterranean tilt. Think Venetian afternoon tea, customisable steak dishes, and refined tasting menus.

£50 - £79
British
Olivares Tapas Bar

Olivares Tapas Bar

3 Castle Hill, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN1 3AA

Just opposite Lincoln’s Castle Square, you’ll find Olivares - a tapas bar serving authentic flavour and Iberian cuisine in rustic interiors. It’s a homely spot, ideal for a relaxed date-night sharing plates, cocktails, and sangria.

£30 - £49
Mediterranean
Tapas
Spanish

If you’re still searching for the best restaurant for you, we have plenty of options. Although there’s much to discover when it comes to fine dining restaurants in Lincoln, we’re firm believers that the Steel City’s restaurants haven’t received their fair share of recognition. So if you’re planning a celebratory meal, consider our guide to Michelin-starred restaurants in Sheffield.

Alternatively, you can explore quintessentially English villages and stop at one of the best restaurants in Beverley. Or, if you’re planning a day trip with sun, sea, and sand take a peek at our round-up of restaurants in Cleethorpes.

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