Bristol is well known for its vast number of spectacular restaurants and bars, with new establishments popping up frequently. There is a cuisine and atmosphere to suit every occasion and every taste. If you are looking for a place to wine and dine clients, or a discreet destination for doing business, then our guide has it covered. To make sure you do dine in style, with good food, good service and good ambience, here are our recommendations for the best spots for a client lunch.

 

1. The Ivy Clifton Brasserie

Located in the heart of Clifton Village, The Ivy Brasserie is set in a stunning, historical Georgian building. With beautiful, high ceilings and an ornate interior, the décor is as impressive as the cuisine. This is refined dining with a charming ambience, perfect for that power lunch.

 

2. Pinkmans

This is a contemporary take on the traditional British bakery yet with an ambitious menu. Pinkmans creates a rustic and authentic feel, with everything baked fresh on site. With a large selection – from pizzas and salads, to delicious patisseries – this is perfect for those looking for a relaxed atmosphere.

 

3. The Ox

This hidden gem is located in an old bank vault in the historic quarter of Bristol’s city centre. The Ox offers the best steak in the city, in a quirky and unique environment. The delicious menu is complimented by carefully crafted cocktails. A great venue for those looking to celebrate a business achievement.

4. Riverstation

Set on the harbourside, the Riverstation is in a beautiful location for a business lunch on a clear day. Overlooking the river, there is no better way to enjoy the fresh seasonal cuisine on offer. The venue also offers a private dining room suitable for those entertaining a group of clients.

 

5. East Village

For those looking for a light and healthy business lunch, the East Village in Clifton Village is the perfect café. Everything on the menu is 100% vegetarian, with many vegan and gluten free options also available. This café is utterly chic, with a delicious yet nutritious menu.

 

6. Cosy Club

Situated in the Old City of Bristol, this building was previously a bank and oozes grandeur with its spectacular yet quirky interior and historic features. The ambience of the Cosy Club is, however, wonderfully relaxed and provides informal, casual dining with a menu catering for a host of occasions. This is a versatile spot for a variety of client lunches.

 

 

Rosemarino

This Italian restaurant is tucked away on the edge of Clifton and is a firm favourite for those looking for a vegetarian-friendly option. The menu changes daily to accommodate the best seasonal produce, allowing diners to enjoy a delicious array of plates. This gem offers an intimate, friendly and peaceful lunch venue.

 

8. The Jetty

This effortlessly stylish restaurant is located in the Bristol Harbour Hotel. A 5-star establishment, the hotel has a modern and contemporary décor, providing an exceptional stay for clients visiting from out of town. The Jetty is known for its fresh fish and sumptuous seafood, and makes for a charming and favourable rendezvous for a business lunch.

 

9. Mud Dock Café

This unique venue has a rustic interior and provides the perfect balance between a café and restaurant in terms of ambience. Mud Dock Café occupies the third floor of an old boating warehouse on the harbourside. The outside terrace is a perfect suntrap in the summer months for those wanting a leisurely alfresco lunch.

 

 

10. Spicer & Cole

With a choice of three locations around the city, this is a perfect choice for an informal and casual client lunch. Spicer & Cole offers a delicious range of tasty, traditional lunchtime treats – from tarts and soups, to hearty sandwiches. Finish off with a cup of coffee and one of their delicious homemade cakes. A great spot to take your laptop.

 

11. Aqua

With two great locations – on the Welsh Back and on Whiteladies Road – Aqua hosts a great selection of Italian cuisine. Offering a diverse menu, this is a good choice to accommodate those who might opt for a lighter lunch. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxing, creating a good mix with the fine dining.

 

12. The Olive Shed

On a warm summer’s day, this is the perfect spot for a client lunch. The Olive Shed is situated right on the water’s edge of the harbourside, with one the best restaurant views in Bristol – a skyline hosting an array of Bristol’s finest landmarks. The tapas menu offers a wide variety of fresh fish, meat and vegetarian plates, while the large platters are a great option for sharing.