Updated on 28 June 2024
Founded by the Romans 2,000 years ago, Chester is a charming cathedral city steeped in rich history. Much of the Roman influence can still be seen today, from its grade I-listed amphitheatre to the centuries-old roads in the centre of the town. Chester is perhaps more commonly known as a Medieval city due to its charming black and white half-timbered buildings and well-preserved city wall, and tourists flock here year after year to admire its beautiful architecture, historic landmarks and idyllic scenery.
Chester is also popular for its quality food scene. Although it might not be as major as Manchester or Liverpool, Chester boasts an array of standout restaurants, from chic fine dining spots to grab-and-go street food. While great British grub and good ol’ country pubs are a big part of the food scene in Chester, you'll also find incredible wine bars, speciality coffee houses and an extensive range of international cuisines. Our list caters for different budgets too, whether you’re in the mood to splash out or are hungry for great grub without breaking the bank.
So, once you’re done strolling the canals, browsing its boutique shops or exploring all the city’s major sights, make your way to one of Chester’s best restaurants to refuel with some seriously good food. Our round-up has something for everyone, from family-friendly favourites to date night destinations.
For more details, click through to each restaurant’s listing where we have included details on menu items, restaurant decor and ambience to ensure you don't miss a trick when choosing a restaurant in Chester.
1 Russell Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH3 5AL
The people of Chester are spoilt for choice when looking for a proper pub lunch, but The Old Harkers Arms is a great place to start. This refined, canal-side pub is big on pub classics - think steak and cheese burgers, chicken and ham pie, and steak and chips.
118 Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HT
With over 130 artisan wines to choose from, it may come as no surprise that Covino started out as an independent wine bar. Since extending, Covino now offers delicious, daily changing small plates - keep your eyes peeled for super supper club events throughout the year.
Unit 1 , Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2EY
Fun and artsy North Light serves up a little bit of everything - brunch, dinner, drinks, Sunday roasts - and it's dog-friendly, too! With live music nights through most of the week, you can tuck into some great food whilst also listening to up-and-coming local artists.
71 Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HQ
Adding a certain je ne sais quoi to Chester’s casual dining scene, this welcoming French restaurant based in an old fire station is an atmospheric spot for a meal. Choose from seasonal, daily-changing menus. Bon appetit.
63 Bridge Street, Chester, CH1 1NG
A step up from your average local Italian, Da Noi serves a modern, seven-course tasting menu inspired by the flavours and ingredients of Italy. The restaurant is a team effort, with chef Valentina running the kitchen and husband Fabrizio managing front of house.
44 Brook Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3DZ
Pierogi is the first Polish restaurant in Chester, named after the speciality they serve - handmade Polish dumplings. Husband and wife team Voytek and Katarzyna Pachucy lead this welcoming joint.
70 Watergate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2LA
Inspired by the legendary steakhouses of New York, Upstairs at The Grill prides itself on serving high-quality steaks, fine wines and attentive service in a relaxed setting. All its classic steaks use only British and Irish beef, while signature cuts are grass-fed and dry aged for maximum flavour.
The Chester Grosvenor , Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1LT
For a taste of the finer things in life, Arkle at The Chester Grosvenor Hotel is a lesson in luxury fine dining. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the extensive cellar and expert sommeliers who can guide you through its contents. Choose between three, five or eight course tasting menus.
6-12 Cuppin Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1
There’s more to Moules a Go Go than good looks and big mussels. This cosy Belgian bistro also serves up delicious steaks, burgers, cocktails and more. Take advantage of foodie deals throughout the week, although its Mussel Pots are a must-try if you're a first time visitor.
Ethos Court, Chester, CH1 3AT
Taking Chester on an all-inclusive tour of Southern India, Koconut Grove offers a lengthy menu served in a friendly atmosphere. Inspired by India’s stunning Kerala region, this laid back, authentic curry house grinds its spices in house daily for maximum flavour.
11 Charles Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 3AZ
Don't let the unassuming shop front fool you - what's behind the exterior is anything but ordinary. This award-winning local bistro serves up perfectly-executed European cuisine with a contemporary twist, be it braised beef with beetroot ketchup or chicken schnitzel with shawarma spiced butter. The set bistro menu is a steal, too.
29 Bridge Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1NG
A neighbourhood cafe, bar and restaurant serving everything from sandwiches and salads to show-stopping cocktails and vibrant, global dishes. Think lamb with beetroot and salsa verde, cheesy pappardelle pasta, and steak with bordelaise sauce.
140 Northgate Street, Chester, Greater Manchester, CH1 2HT
Informal, affordable and atmospheric as hell, Porta is a cosy tapas and wine bar co-owned by brothers Ben and Joe. Their aim is to keep things really simple, but the quality high, in order to recreate the lively vibe of the independent tapas bars in Barcelona and Madrid. Mission accomplished.
68 Main Street, Frodsham, Cheshire, WA6 7AU
Located a short drive up the road in Frodsham, Next Door is well worth the trip. The passion project of a chef and sommelier, this tiny, sustainably minded restaurant turns out monthly-changing tasting menus within the homely surrounds of an old butcher’s shop.
26 City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3AE
The Yard is a modern Italian in the heart of Chester, combining style and substance with cheerful, welcoming decor. The head chef trained under Gordon Ramsay, so expect skilled dishes with a contemporary twist.
4 Music Hall Passage, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2EU
Guests feel a part of the family at this intimate, 30-seat restaurant, while menus change every four to six weeks to reflect the seaons. There's some exceptional cookery at play here, but we recommend the eight-course tasting menu to experience it at its best.
13 St Werburgh Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2DY
The Botanist in Chester is best known for its botanical cocktails, from a Lilypad Martini a Peppered Peach Mojito, but it also offers crowd-pleasing menus spanning brunch to sharing plates and a Sunday roast. You'll find plenty of vegan and gluten-free options too, making it a reliable choice for larger groups.
57 Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HQ
Said to be set inside Chester’s oldest coaching house, The Pied Bull is bursting with 11th century charm, from its recognisable red brick facade to the wooden-beamed bar and quirky restaurant decor. Naturally, traditional British favourites form the bulk of the menu.
Hotel Indigo Chester, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1QQ
The kitchen is placed front and centre at this elegant British restaurant in the heart of town. Watch chefs lovingly prepare elegant, uncomplicated dishes while you relax in its cosy dining room, all of which are made using wild, local and sustainable ingredients.
CLooking for more delicious places to eat in the north west? Just a short drive away, discover all the best restaurants in Manchester for everything from reliable cheap eats to Michelin dining. And while you’re there, why not take a look at Manchester’s best Indian restaurants, or the best bottomless brunches in Manchester to book ahead of the weekend.
If you’re on the hunt for places to eat in Chester for a special occasion, then consider booking a private dining room in Chester for a guaranteed way to make your meal extra special. You can even filter the list according to budget, cuisine, occasion and more, making finding the perfect private dining room as pain-free as possible.
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