Updated on 22 January 2020
Nestled between the Chester’s medieval streets and ancient fortress walls are some incredible foodie spots. Whether you're after authentic Italian cuisine, Instagrammable cocktails or somewhere to pimp your own fries (who isn’t looking for pimped fries?) Chester has got what you need. A beautiful city, drenched in history, but dated? Absolutely not.
Whether you’re looking for street food to get you from A-B when sightseeing, dinner with a live music backdrop or award-winning menus for a romantic treat, we've found something for you.
Great British food and good ol’ country pubs dominate the food scene in Chester, but you'll also find incredible wine bars, speciality coffees and an extensive range of cuisines, our list caters for different budgets and has options for every occasion.
After an afternoon discovering the beautiful sites, a canal sidewalk or a day at the races we can probably all agree that not many things are worse than wandering indecisively with aching feet and an empty tummy. So, our roundup has everything you need to know about the places you’d be crazy to miss in Chester. For more details click through to each restaurant’s listing where we have included details on menu items and price, restaurant decor and ambiance and (of course) the all-important taste test - our honest reviews ensure you don't miss a trick when choosing where to eat in Chester.
4 Music Hall Passage, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2EU
Feel like part of the family at this wonderfully intimate, 30 seat restaurant. The independent, local team won the 2019 taste of Chester award. They do say the best things come in small packages.
Ethos Court, Chester, CH1 3AT
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 delicious, seasonal, daily changing menus. Bon appetit.
39 Watergate Row South, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2LE
There’s more to this guy than good looks and big mussels, okay? This cosy Belgian bistro also serves up delicious steaks, burgers, cocktails and much more. Moules A Go Go have been preparing fresh Anglesey mussels for over 20 years.
9 Elephants Thai Drink & Dine 11A Upper Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 4EE
9 Elephants breathe new life into Thai dining: think a tasty Thai tapas. There are bicycles and birdcages on the ceiling and the lively menu is just as fun and eclectic as the decor.
134-140 Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, Cheshire, CH1 2HT
Starting as a 14 cover restaurant, Joseph Benjamin has grown into one of Chester's best eateries. Join the Wright brothers in their deliciously creative restaurant. These talented brothers take modern British food on world tour.
5 City Walls, Chester, CH1 2JG
57 Northgate Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2HQ
Drenched in history, yes, but dated? Absolutely not. The Pied Bull, Chester’s oldest coaching house has held a continuous licence since 1533. It's safe to assume they really know what they’re doing by now.
Watergate Square, Chester, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 2LY
Wine and dine whilst taking in the stunning panoramic views of Chester Racecourse. This arena is the oldest continually used sporting venue in Britain, with the first race taking place in (you guessed it) 1539. Expect some delicious twists on British classics or enjoy afternoon tea by the winning post.
The Chester Grosvenor, Eastgate, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1LT
Simons Radley’s one Michelin Starred restaurant offers over-indulgence at its best. Experience the delicious 8 course tasting menu or the impeccable a la carte menu set to the delectable backdrop of the Chester Grosvenor. If that doesn't sell it for you, there's an enormous bread trolley. We repeat, bread trolley.
63 Bridge Street, Chester, CH1 1NG
57 Rupert Street, London, W1D 7PL
The Yard provides a modern Italian in the heart of Chester, combining style and substance with a cheerful, welcoming decor. Their head chef learnt under Gordon Ramsey and knows a thing or two about Italian food.
11 Charles Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH2 3AZ
Don't let the unassuming shop front exterior trick you at Sticky Walnut, what's behind is anything but ordinary. This cosy, foodie hot spot serves up delicious European cuisine. This contemporary restaurant is no stranger to an award or two.
Looking for more delicious places to eat in the North West? Check out our guide to the best cafes in Manchester.