5 British Restaurants To Visit Before You Die

From the northern villages of Scotland to beachside towns in Cornwall, the UK is jam-packed with world-famous restaurants. But which will bring unforgettable dining experiences? From Michelin-starred establishments to low-key newbies making waves, put these British restaurants on your bucket list. 

Bucket List Restaurants To Visit Before You Die

The River Cafe, London

Since opening in 1987, London’s River Cafe has remained pretty much unchanged – a testament to its timeless magic. The brainchild of Ruth Rogers and Rose Gray, the riverside gem was originally built as a canteen to feed the staff of Ruth’s husband Robert’s architecture firm, but it was quickly recognised as one of the city’s best Italian eateries. When the sun is shining, there’s no greater joy than enjoying a bowl of tagliatelle on its idyllic terrace.

Thames Wharf, Rainville Rd, London W6 9HA, rivercafe.co.uk

Ynyshir

Ynyshir, Wales

With its pumping techno soundtrack and matte black facade, there’s nothing cookie cutter about Gareth Ward’s two Michelin-starred restaurant, Ynyshir. Nestled in a woodland on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, this is about as rural as it gets – but well worth the long drive, provided you don’t have any intolerances or strong dislikes (the menu can’t be altered), and have £385 to splash. Expect a protein-packed, Japanese-inspired affair featuring up to 30 courses, with bedrooms to collapse in afterwards. 

Eglwys Fach, Machynlleth SY20 8TA, ynyshir.co.uk

Inver, Loch Fyne

Noma-trained chef Pam Brunton and her partner Rob Latimer took over a fisherman’s croft on Loch Fyne back in 2015, transforming it into one of the country’s most romantic restaurants. As well as offering beautiful views of the rolling west coast landscape, Inver’s remote location dictates its menu, which is centred around foraged ingredients and fresh seafood from the local waters. Stay overnight in one of the accompanying bothies for the full Scottish experience.

Cairndow PA27 8BU, inverrestaurant.co.uk

Erst, Manchester

For those more drawn to natural wine and small plates than extravagant tasting menus, Erst in Manchester is a must-visit. The small, unshowy restaurant in Ancoats has played a pivotal role in the city’s culinary revolution, spearheaded by plumber-turned-chef Patrick Withington. Amid the pared-back, industrial-style setting, diners are treated to bold seasonal fare sizzled up on the grill: think Cantabrian anchovies, chilli-spiced Carlingford oysters and succulent lamb rib, alongside low-intervention wines, predominantly from Europe.

9 Murray St, Ancoats, Manchester M4 6HS, erst-mcr.co.uk

Restaurant Pine, Northumberland

An old cow barn in a field in Northumberland is an unlikely setting for a fine dining feast – but Restaurant Pine’s unassuming location is part of its magic. Helmed by chefs Cal Byerley and Ian Waller, alongside their respective partners Siân and Vanesa Stoltz (who curates the stellar wine list), it serves an imaginative 19-course tasting menu created using produce from the kitchen garden. And despite its critical acclaim (and Michelin star) there’s a refreshingly relaxed atmosphere. Certainly a restaurant worthy of your bucket list.

Vallum Farm, Military Rd, East Wallhouses, Newcastle upon Tyne NE18 0LL, restaurantpine.co.uk