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 Arty Relaxed Experiences by the River |
16 Narrow Quay Bristol BS1 4QA United Kingdom 0117 917 2305 |
Whether it's the snug colors and lighting that attract you during the winter, or the lavish outside set-up on the terrace in the summer, there is no doubt that the ambiance created at the Arnolfini cafe-bar will impress you. Designed by Bruce McLean, this minimalist bar impresses most with its deep red walls and mahogany bench seating. Complemented by a great dockside location, this is the place for lovers of fine art and literature to discuss the works in the adjoining gallery, which is consistently being voted as one of the best independent galleries outside London. The emphasis in the bar though is on fusing world cuisine with a cocktail menu to die for. Complement anything on the menu with a pint of your favorite ale or lager, and you'll really be living the life of luxury. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: bairuide |
 Winner of Real Ale Pub of the Year |
St Georges Road Hotwells Bristol BS1 5UU United Kingdom +44 117 940 6776 |
Small but perfectly formed is the best way to describe this pub. It's one tiny room with a bar, perched on the edge of a roundabout slightly out of town. But that doesn't stop people flocking here from miles around. Why do they bother? Well, it's the antithesis of a city-centre super pub and that's what the punters like about it. You won't find loud music, fruit machines, flashing lights etc. in here and if you even tried to buy an alco-pop or fizzy, tasteless lager, why, you'd be practically hung for treason! It's a real ale fan's paradise in here. There are always at least four different brews from independent breweries on draught, with a couple of guest ales usually on offer too. Check out their blackboard for the beer's vital statistics - how much a pint and more importantly, the alcohol percentage in each one. Some of these brews are lethal! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Also known as Bar X |
St Stephens House, Colston Avenue Bristol BS1 4SR United Kingdom +44 117 929 2344 |
This large, city centre bar and cafe has a bit of a split personality - it's relatively quiet at lunchtimes, attracting the city's suited workers, but in the evenings, and especially at weekends, it roars into life and becomes a bit of a pre-club warm-up venue. At these times it draws in the city's youngsters, all dressed up for a night on the town and it's correspondingly boisterous. Commercial dance hits are pumped out of the speakers, there are occasional DJs and the crowds buzz round the bar, taking advantage of the frequent drinks promos. If this all sounds a bit too wild for you, visit in the day and order yourself lunch from their menu - slightly more adventurous than your usual pub-grub, around £6 buys you a plateful of balti, burgers, steak or Mediterranean-influenced fare. House wine is available at £9.95 a bottle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Very large, extremely busy, student-friendly pub |
15-19 Queens Road Clifton Bristol BS8 1QE United Kingdom +44 117 927 9550 |
It might be an enormous "super-pub" but you'll still be hard-pressed to find a seat if you don't arrive early enough, even during the week. The fact it's right in the middle of university territory and on one of the busiest roads in the city, makes it very popular with Bristol's student population in particular. The relaxed atmosphere and lack of music or TV screens also makes it popular amongst those who don't want to shout to hear each other - non-smokers will be pleased to hear that there's also a smoke-free area. With its young clientele in mind there are always regular discounts on drinks and special food promotions (food is served from 2p-10p on weekdays) such as "curry night" on Thursdays. A word of warning - you'll feel ancient in here if you're over 21! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Upscale drinking spot |
Hotel Du Vin Narrow Lewins Mead Bristol BS1 2NU United Kingdom +44 117 925 5577 http://www.hotelduvin.com |
Like it's place of residency, The Bistro in the Hotel Du Vin offers upscale service to augment an extensive food and drink menu. The Bistro is known throughout Bristol for its extensive wine menu and its upscale ambiance. Offering a three-course meal including wine for 40 pounds, luxury is the key to service here. Ask knowledgeable staff members for advice on your favorite drinks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Listen to blues in this quirky city centre pub |
The Bunch of Grapes Pub, Denmark Street Bristol BS1 5DQ United Kingdom +44 117 987 0500 http://www.bristolbluesclub.co.uk |
This club holds regular gigs inside the old, backstreet pub, The Bunch of Grapes - a beautifully-preserved drinking den, directly opposite the stage door of the Hippodrome (the stars of the shows and their crew are frequent visitors, hence all the signed photographs on the walls). Established about eight years ago it's for everyone who enjoys all kinds of blues - from "slit your wrists" varieties to "rockin". Bands play almost every Tuesday at the back of the pub - there's no entry fee, but they pass round a collection pot during the evening and it's expected that you show your appreciation by putting something in it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Paul Townsend |
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Booming, beautiful brasserie |
38 Queens Road Bristol BS8 1RE United Kingdom +44 117 930 4777 http://www.browns-restaurants.... |
The magnificent Venetian facade of this building matches its high-quality food and drink and the somewhat lavish ambience inside. The outside tables serve as a hip student/professional hang-out, making it very much a place to be seen. At weekends in particular it gets busy with a mix of well-heeled types - stay away if you like your drinks cheap and your surroundings earthy. Everything is rather grand and impressive: the food ranges from Mediterranean-inspired dishes to old favourites such as steak and Guinness pie - expect to pay £10-14 for two courses. As for drinks, you could stick to wine or beers, but when you can get cocktails mixed and shaken before your very eyes, why would you have anything else? It really comes alive in the summer, with barbecues held on the terrace and there's live jazz on Friday and Sunday evenings throughout the year. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Ross Bowman  |
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A theatre-goer's first stop |
10 St. Augustine's Parade Bristol BS1 4UZ United Kingdom +44 117 923 3696 |
Sitting snugly between the box office and The Bristol Hippodrome theatre, Cast leads a bit of a double life. By day it's populated with tourists, locals and office workers, all enjoying the prime central position and the French cuisine. At night there's a bit of a transformation and it becomes perilously packed with both theatre-goers and predominantly student-aged crowds—although not many students tend to come here, it's a bit too towny for them. There are always loads of drinks promotions and at weekends in particular, the queue to the bar can get ridiculously long and you'll have to squeeze your way through the lively and loud crowd to get served. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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For all you oldest swingers in town |
The Watershed, Canon's Road Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 929 1361 |
This large bar/restaurant boasts a fabulous location - right on the waterfront - attracts an over-21 crowd (often very much over) and gets very busy and loud at weekends. There's a small dance floor, with a disco glitter-ball suspended above it - perfect for your Travolta impersonation! And the music policy reflects the age of the customers; only records from the years 1957-1986 are played. As well as plenty of bar stools and sofas, there's also a large dining area, where you can get main courses (e.g. roasted herbed crusted cod, jambalaya of chorizo, chicken and shrimp etc.), or sandwiches. A kid's menu is also available and little ones are welcome during the day. At nights though, it turns into something of a pick-up place and you'll only survive by working your way through their wonderful cocktail menu! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small but trendy cafe-bar |
Christmas Steps Bristol BS1 5BS United Kingdom +44 117 914 9922 |
Located halfway up Christmas Steps, this place is a great little find - popular with trendier business people, students and Bristol's young and trendy, who enjoy the laid-back Mediterranean feel. Food is available during the day - baked potatoes, sandwiches, salads, Thai fish cakes, vegetable bakes etc. - plus hot and cold drinks and a small selection of bottled beers and spirits. The vibe totally changes on Friday nights, when it becomes more of a pre-club venue and gets lively, loud and busy with the city's hipsters. Various DJs play and there is occasionally a small admission charge on these nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Plush, lush superclub for glammed-up nights |
13-21 Baldwin Street Bristol BS1 1NA United Kingdom +44 117 922 7177 |
A lot of money has been spent on this venue, and it shows. The walls are plush red velvet, there's some wonderfully deep, comfy sofas and booths in the chill out rooms (a very dark and womb-like area), a back room playing slightly more mellow tunes and two bars, plus a VIP bar which towers above the dance floor for those who don't want to mix with the riff-raff. Ah yes, the dance floor—it's large and almost always full of posing lads and groovy, lyrca-wearing women strutting their stuff! People dress up to come here and you'll stand out if you don't. It regularly attracts big name DJs thanks to its state-of-the-art sound systems and enthusiastic crowds. Avoid it at chucking out time—the surrounding streets resemble some kind of apocalyptic scene, with crowds of folks stumbling drunkenly all over the place. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Funky house for the over-twenties |
Evolution, The Harbourside Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 922 0330 |
All those funky house fans of the world ? get yourself down here for a continual evolution of music anthems that are sure to blow your mind. Guest DJs from Galaxy 101, Bubblegum, Belief or Aubergine will be spinning the discs, but arriving sharpish is advised - as the night goes on, the admission prices will put an increasing dent in your pocket. However, if you grab a club flyer from the advised pre-club bar, Brasshouse (The), next door, you can sometimes get in at a discounted rate. It's a night for over 20s only, and the dress code is described as "stylish and sexy", so make sure you dress to impress (they're strict about this). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Deep beats on the boat |
East Mud Dock, The Grove Bristol BS1 4RB United Kingdom +44 117 929 3301 |
Thank goodness - a night where you don't have to listen to the same old house that every other club in the city seems to be playing. Those of you hankering after something a bit different (in both ambience and music) should make your way to this night, held on alternate Saturdays at the popular and slightly grungy club, The Thekla. It's mostly breakbeat, with side orders of disco, dub, superfunk and special effects - your ears will be ringing for days afterward. Resident DJs - Krishna, Sid Fossil, Aether, Tim Spin and Justin - work alongside special guests, and occasionally there's even a soundclash between the two!Attracting a mix of the trendy, slightly grungy and glammed-up customer, it's a very popular night with the city's more knowing and less Ibiza-obsessed clubbers. You will probably get frisked by the bouncers at the door - don't take it personally, it's policy. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Womb-like underground club/lounge |
12-16 Park Row Bristol BS1 5LJ United Kingdom +44 117 925 1177 |
Whether you call it a lounge, a bar, a club or just the Dojo, this progressive underground venue attracts the kind of crowd who want to escape the typical townie clubbers and enjoy more individual, less commercial, surroundings. Everywhere is painted in the deepest, darkest red, giving it a funky and unique look, if making it a tad claustrophobic. Thankfully air-conditioned,the dancefloor is usually teeming by midnight to disco/funk/house and old skool hip-hop sounds. With the roof terrace opened on Friday and Saturday nights — offering clubbers a bit of breathing space — and regular drink promotions,this venue is definitely one for the discerning clubber. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bristol's biggest drum n' bass night |
The Thekla The Grove Bristol BS1 4RB United Kingdom +44 117 929 3301 |
Born in 1996, this amalgamation of old and new school jungle beats has found its resting place at one of Bristol's longest-running venues. The queues on these nights are predictably long but the crowd - who take their clubbing very seriously - are in high spirits. As always with this place, the dress code isn't fixed, so turn up in whatever takes your fancy - it doesn't matter here, as all the focus is on delivering the music that supports the claim that this really is "the best Drum n' Bass night in the West." If you're lucky you might even catch one of their infamous breakdancing sessions in the upstairs bar - start practising spinning on your head now! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Q-Burns Abstract Mes |
 Photo: Matthew George |
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Trendy waterfront bar |
Canons Road Bristol BS1 5TX United Kingdom +44 117 907 4287 |
Walking into E-Shed is like entering an artery; absolutely everything is a deep, vibrant red, including the walls, the bar, seating and even the tiles in the bathroom. Catering to a the funkier and young hipsters in the city, there is a different musical line up seven nights a week, including house, hip hop, funk and disco, as well snowboardng, skating and retro cartoons shown on a big screen in the evening. The bar menu includes a sinful selection of homemade stone baked pizza, salads and melts. An excellent variety of rum, bourbon and absinthe is availailable, as well as some unique cocktails like the double chocatini. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: richt... |
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Both pre-club warm-up and business person's favourite |
7-9 Baldwin Street Bristol BS1 1RU United Kingdom +44 117 930 4370 |
Edwards is one of the busiest drinking and eating holes in the city, attracting suits in the daytime and lively young things in the evenings. It's popularity is due to its dead-central position—slap bang in the middle of the city centre with super-club Creation just round the corner—rather than anything particularly special about the place itself. The atmosphere is upbeat and dancey enough to keep them going until the clubs open but it could be anywhere really. Daytimes, it's good for a leisurely breakfast or lunch—they serve cooked breakfasts, traditional pub meals like sausage and mash and fish and chips and snacks such as sandwiches and baked potatoes. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Elbow Room |
64 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JN United Kingdom +44 117 930 0242 http://www.elbow-room.co.uk |
At last! A truly trendy place to drink and eat, a hybrid of pool hall, bar, restaurant and nigtclub - which sums it up exactly. It doesn't convey the sheer style and class of the place though. There are two beautiful, purple-baized pool tables to play on, they offer food of the American kind - fajitas, nachos, burgers and club sandwiches- and of course a well-stocked bar. If you fancy staying all day and night here, no problem. It's open late six days a week and has DJs every night except Thursday, when it's live music night (there is usually a small admission charge for these nights). What else do you need to know - except perhaps that its London branch won best bar of the year back in 1996 when it opened. No doubt it will soon do the same here. Try it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andy Waller |
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Trendy pub with 1960's decor |
2 Trenchard Sreet Bristol BS1 5AN United Kingdom +44 117 922 6464 |
This new cafe/bar is not only styled like something out of Barbarella with 1960's pod chairs and spinning, psychedelic images projected onto the walls, it is also open until 2am, making it the perfect place to go for a spot of late night drinking without the hassle and expense of going to a club. It is also a very popular place for a meal, with pub fare being served until 1:30am. Over 50 fabulous cocktails are offered; but just try one at time or the walls will really be be spinning! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Twice the clubbers dream |
The Harbourside, Canons Road Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 922 0330 |
Walk past this venue on a weekend night and here's what you'll see - an enormous queue of glammed-up clubbers, most under 21, with the girls wearing very little and all the boys wearing identikit shirts. The number of people waiting to get in is testament to this place's popularity. It's slick, right on the waterfront, and offers two rooms in which to party - one playing popular chart hits and "cheesy" hits of yesteryear, the other devoted to all the latest club anthems - plus large dance floors, and plenty of seating to rest your legs. To get in, dress smartly, leave your jeans and trainers at home and bring ID (proof of age), or the enormous and strict (they have to be - it's that sort of place!) bouncers won't let you in. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Traditional, old pub in beautiful listed building |
17-18 King Street Bristol BS1 4EF United Kingdom +44 117 929 1763 |
This enormous old pub on busy King Street is popular with locals, students and tourists alike, mainly because the building itself is so ancient and beautiful and oozing historic charm. It's split into four areas, each with its own bar and plenty of nooks and crannies to hide away in. Real ale is big here, although they also stock the usual draught lagers and beers, and food is also served. This includes main meals such as Sirloin steak, red pepper lasagne etc. and bar snacks (baked potatoes, sandwiches and salads). Sunday lunches are also very popular. At weekends in the evening it becomes full of a slightly more boisterous crowd, so if you're after a quiet civilised drink, best to avoid this place Friday and Saturday evenings and try it in the daytime. They also host live bands on alternate Fridays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Private Club for Everybody |
69 Park Street Bristol BS1 5PB United Kingdom +44 117 945 1959 http://www.goldbrickhouse.co.uk |
Rich wooden floors, comfortable chairs, a warren of linked intimate drinking and dining spaces spread over three floors-Goldbrick House, its authentic restoration complemented by modern design, has the feel of a chic private club. Opened only in 2006 in side-by-side Georgian townhouses it has already been awarded two AA rosettes for its contemporary and unpretentious cuisine. The service is relaxed and friendly and there is a continuing program of special events (Wine Club, truffle-making, ladies poker and cocktail evening to name but three). Whether you're part of the smart set or just a passer-by, you'll find something exciting at Goldbrick House. - Peter Clements Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Courtyard bar catering to the well-heeled types |
20a Berkeley Square Clifton Bristol BS8 1HP United Kingdom +44 117 927 7333 http://www.hahaonline.co.uk/ |
This smart and expensive cafe-bar is very popular with young professionals, oldest swingers in town and the richer-end of Bristol's student population. What it offers them all is plenty of draught and bottled beers, wines and spirits plus a good brasserie-style menu and brunch menu (the latter only at weekends from 10a-noon). Dishes include Parma ham with pasta and cream and upmarket light meals, served with sauces, which are also for sale. If you're after a quiet drink though, be aware that from early evening it gets packed with the entire Sloane population of Bristol's 20-30 somethings. Dress smartly and flash a few designer labels or you'll stick out like a sore thumb. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The oldest pub in Bristol |
27 Frogmore Street Bristol BS1 5NA United Kingdom +44 117 929 4118 |
Although looking a little down-at-heel these days, this place is still worth a visit, if only because it's the city's oldest pub. Licensed in 1606, it still retains some historical character (although it is unfortunately surrounded by concrete monstrosities) and office workers and students alike enjoy the traditional village atmosphere, with its roaring open-fire, and ancient pictures lining the walls. Don't expect the behavior of its patrons to be equally refined and old-world however - Thursday through to Saturday nights see the place dragged into the 21st century with karaoke and DJs all until 1.30am and the crowd gets younger and much more boisterous. It's always free to get in, but don't hang about because doors close at midnight. Those after a quiet pint should only venture in during the day! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Adrian Skeates |
 Photo: Adrian Skeates |
 Photo: Jane Williams |
 Photo: chesswithdeath |
 Photo: Lora English |
 Photo: dirk ramrod |
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A Taste of the Mediterranean |
55 Queens Rd Clifton Bristol BS8 1QQ United Kingdom 0117 929 4323 http://www.hermanos.co.uk |
A taste of the Mediterranean is what awaits you at this contemporary café-bar on the Queen's Road. During the day, you can pamper yourself with a tasty selection of homemade produce, from soups to open sandwiches, salads to tapas dishes. Visit during the evening and there is a distinctly Cocktail Bar feel, where a strikingly individual and stylish set-up impresses you upon your arrival. Hermanos is decked out in chocolate and vanilla luxury, perfectly complimented by chilled music which lends a mellow light mood. The number of times we have decided to skip dinner to enjoy a light tapas bite here is quite astounding – but it's simply because the offering is so appealing. Hermanos hits the spot with their choice of DJ talent on show, and, complemented as it is with the simple yet attractive décor for which they are famed, the occasion can only be a success! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Contemporary elegance but a traditional feel |
8-10 Colston Avenue Bristol BS1 4ST United Kingdom +44 117 929 8210 |
Promoting a more modern way to go to the pub (the national pastime, in case you hadn't noticed) Hogshead is part of a national chain offering stylish surroundings, lots of real ales and a particularly good selection of wines. Being right in the centre of town, it attracts a mixed clientèle - students, office workers, suits and tourists and while it's relatively quiet at lunchtimes, the vibe gets much livelier and louder at night, especially at weekends, when it can get totally packed. There is a non-smoking area and a food menu which offers main meals and bar snacks from quite an adventurous menu. A second branch, on Cheltenham Road, is much the same, but with a more "studenty" feel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Karin Rautio |
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Extremely busy, loud, city centre pub |
14-15 St Augustine's Parade Bristol BS1 4UT United Kingdom +44 117 929 8391 |
The queues to get in here during a Saturday night are unbelievable and it's very popular with Bristol's young, loud and occasionally intimidating. Once inside, if the claustrophobia of the crowds at the regular bar downstairs are driving you crazy, venture upstairs to the terrace and cocktail bar. All those guilty of singing in the shower, shed that shame and come to Tuesday's karaoke night, where you could win a prize for your efforts. There are also theme nights on Wednesdays - turn up and see what's on offer. Food is available from midday to closing time and in the calmer, more sedate daytime it's actually quite a good, central spot for a bite to eat. At nights, it's a perfect place for when you're feeling lively and energetic; a terrible place if you fancy a quiet pint! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Old grooves and new tunes at club Evolution |
The Harbourside Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 922 0330 |
Party animals, soul sisters, mad Motown fans and just about everyone else who appreciates a diverse range of music, will love this weekly event. With room one offering the best in commercial dance and chart anthems, and room two catering for those who prefer the good old grooves of 60's, 70's and 80's motown and soul hits. So, you can chop and change all night long from the groovy hits of old to the modernity of current favourites, in atmospheric mayhem. The dress code is smart/casual, meaning no trainers or blue denim. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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17th century merchant's house, now a pub |
3-5 King Street Bristol BS1 4ER United Kingdom +44 117 926 0783 |
Built in 1664, three out of an original row of five timber-framed houses each of four storeys and a basement, have been combined to make this fascinating public house and restaurant. Built for wealthy merchants, the antiquity of the building has been tastefully preserved - there are several bars, cosy niches, a non-smoking area (daytime only), plenty of bench seating outside and a restaurant upstairs. There is a good variety of regular pub-grub dishes on the menu, an excellent selection of steaks, plus bar food in the evenings and a popular Sunday Lunch. Real Ales fans in particular can have a great time in here - choose from three varieties of Theakstons, Old Speckled Hen, Old Peculiar and Directors beer. Watch out, they're pretty potent! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Peter Morris |
 Photo: James Nicholls |
 Photo: Kah-Lin Chong |
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Bristol's biggest indie night |
The Bierkeller All Saints Street Bristol BS1 2NA United Kingdom +44 117 926 8514 |
Sitting at home paying homage to all things indie in the sanctity of your room just won't do. Come together instead with indie fans city-wide to dance your way into the weekend with none of those cheesy house tunes and definitely no teenybopper chart hits. Tonight is all about indie, playing stuff like Happy Mondays, Stereophonics, Hendrix, The Smiths etc. plus the odd bit of alternative dance beats, and it's a very popular mix. Drink promotions all night help the good atmosphere - bottles of lager are just £2. Best of all, there's no dress code, so you can come looking as scruffy as you like, in true indie style! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: John Goodwin |
 Photo: MY LIPSTICK HELL |
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Unpretentious pub, popular with those over 30 |
St. Michael's Hill Bristol BS2 8DX United Kingdom +44 117 926 4500 |
Located in trendy and buzzing St. Michael's Hill—it's very steep and you'll need a drink after you've tramped up here— this popular, unpretentious pub has its own brand ale on tap, regular locals and a bustling atmosphere. The beer gardens are open all year, but naturally those who prefer their drink unfrozen stick to the summer months to go al fresco. Traditionally decorated with the usual commodities of pool table, cigarettes machine and arcade games, this pub is particularly popular with 30 year-olds upwards, especially post-graduates and doctors and nursing staff from the nearby university and hospital buildings, who appreciate its mellow and traditional feel. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Academics from far and wide |
The Harbourside, Canons Road Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 922 0330 |
Add hundreds of students, two rooms and three nights together, and what have you got? Student mayhem at Evolution! With commercial chart music in one room, and house anthems in the other, the two resident DJs promise hours of non-stop dance for all those club-a-holic students out there. With cheap drinks thrown into the bargain, it makes for a popular and lively night out, whatever you prefer to shake your thing to! The dress code is casual, but no tracksuits are allowed and it's over 18s only, so bring ID if you don't want to be turned away by one of the enormous bouncers. The night is only open to NUS (National Union of Students) members, so bring your NUS card (or overseas equivalent) as well. There are actually three student nights held here, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays - the latter two nights go under the name of "Wedgies" but it's the same thing. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Native |
15 Small Street Bristol BS1 1DE United Kingdom 0117 930 4217 http://www.nativebristol.com |
The owners of Native, the newest hot spot in Bristol, describe the venue as "a warm, unpretentious space for some of the world's finest acts to perform in a much smaller and relaxed venue than often they would play". Big names play regularly, which include Bristol's very own Daddy G of Massive Attack as a regular. The club covers all musical styles and many nights feature live bands. This venue is quite simply All About Music, getting lost in the music and enjoying the underground style bar – where you will find premium spirits aplenty, you can also buy high quality draught premium lager and cider by the pitcher so you will feel at ease relaxing with your friends, without having to make trips to the bar every ten minutes. If you are into your music and are looking for a venue to enjoy live acts, or to sit back and take in the latest awesome DJ set, this is definitely the best place to go in Bristol. You can also reserve the luxurious and comfy seating areas for you and your friends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bristol's 21st century gay venue |
9 Frogmore Street Bristol BS1 5NA United Kingdom +44 117 926 4342 http://www.queenshilling.com |
Equally loved by Bristol's gay and straight communities, this is a great place, full of friendly faces and a welcome relief from the sameness of many of the city centre bars. There are DJs throughout the week, usually playing a mixture of chart hits and house, although a regular RnB night is coming soon. Particularly popular are the student nights on Thursdays (free admission) and the Galaxy 101 nights on Fridays and Saturdays - Galaxy is a Bristol radio station which plays chart and cheesy house to the masses. On the rare occasion that the dancing becomes too much, there are more sedate areas for you to sit and chat with your friends. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Friendly pub with small beer garden |
56 St Michael's Hill Cotham Bristol BS2 8DX United Kingdom +44 117 929 1334 |
Popular with postgraduates,nurses and locals,this small pub is good for a quiet pint away from it all in the daytime, but gets livelier at nights,especially towards the end of the week, with Saturday being karaoke night!Board games, such as Jenga and Dominoes are kept behind the bar for quieter occasions. Everything in here has a Robin Hood theme — snacks like Maid Marian Munchies(crisps and guacamole) and Friar Tuck (salami with olives) are served alongside meals such as ploughman's lunch, pork pie and jacket potatoes,all served with salad and crusty bread. Even the drinks include a range of flavoured schnapps called Maid Marian's Chill Outs and flavoured vodkas called Robin's Vodka Shots. What Robin Hood would be doing so far away from his native Nottinghamshire is anybody's guess, but it's a great pub nevertheless. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Kimari Sabaj |
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Dance music's big name DJs plus local talent |
Creation 13-21 Baldwin Street Bristol BS1 1NA United Kingdom +44 117 922 7177 |
This night bills itself as "a blueprint for 21st century clubbing" - nothing like a bit of modesty is there? Actually, they have got a point, it is a rather splendid night, with all the stops pulled out. They always manage to get some of the nation's biggest and best DJs, who agree to play here mainly because the crowd is so lively and ready for some serious partying. They also feature heroes from the local DJ circuit, but whoever's on the decks, you can expect a mix of R'n'B, soul, funky house and garage to blow those weekly cobwebs away from a state-of-the-art sound system. The dress code is stated as streetwear. No lager boys, football shirts or tracksuits - adhere to it or you won't get in. They want beautiful shiny people here you see and if you haven't got your best, most skin-tight and glamorous clubbing clothes on, forget it. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Trendy Japanese Restaurant and Bar |
Unit 2, Unite House Frogmore St Bristol BS1 5NA United Kingdom 0117 927 6003 http://www.sukoshi.co.uk |
Fusing a south East Asian atmosphere with a truly Western contemporary design, Sukoshi is one of the trendiest establishments in Bristol. Whether your palate desires traditional Japanese cuisine, sumptuous fillet of beef, noodles or even a vegetarian alternative, Head Chef Jean-Paul Olivier's team serve up a treat every time. And not only with their food: Sukoshi was voted the Champagne Bar of the Year for 2004 and tempts its clientele with fascinating entertainment, which include novel casino and Horse Racing evenings. All decked out in kimono! We think this is one of the best-decorated venues of its genre we have seen, and with its wide-ranging menu which caters for Japanese food enthusiasts, as well as offering fusion dishes for those new to this cuisine, you simply can't go wrong if a taste of the Orient is what you crave. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bristol's version of a Soho jazz bar |
39-41 St Nicholas Street Bristol BS1 1TP United Kingdom +44 117 940 2304 http://www.tantric-jazz.co.uk |
Is it a cafe or is it a nightclub? Thats for you to decide. The Tantric is a new concept for the downtown Corn Street area of Bristol—a groovy and laid back jazz bar, offering food and live music or DJs playing jazz and world music, seven nights a week. Take your pick from any dish off the North African/Middle Eastern menu. Very popular with Bristol's arty and Bohemian crowds, this place gets deservedly and extremely busy at weekends, when booking is essential. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Bristol Ram |
32 Park Street Bristol BS1 5JA United Kingdom +44 117 926 8654 www.bristolram.com |
Smiles all around here, and that's not just because "Smiles", the local brew, is the main ale served. The interior boasts warm, inviting colors throughout and there's much more on offer, with something to please everyone. The energetic amongst you will appreciate the dancing-till-the-early-hours at the end of the week (Resident DJ on Fri & Sat) and for the rest of us, there's the simple pleasure of a drink in the bar or perhaps a meal from their menu, full of traditional English food, from around £8. It's a very popular place, and tends to fill up with professionals at lunchtimes and smarter students and young professionals at night. A new innovation are the free live music nights - currently held every Tues & Thurs. There is a £3 admission charge Wed-Sat nights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Elegant Dining Combined with a Decadent Bar Experience |
15 Berkeley Square Bristol BS8 1HB United Kingdom 0117 921 0455 http://www.thesquareclub.com |
Your first step inside The Square will confirm that this, indeed, was the correct place to host your closing meeting or bring that special person for dinner. The Square combines one of the city's most elegant dining experiences with a genuinely decadent bar experience. We think the food is very well presented and adventurous – but not overly adventurous, which we like. And we would bet our house on the fact that you will be aching to re-sample the desserts on offer as soon as possible after your first meal! Whether due to the opulent dining room, polished wooden floors, striking sculptures or beautiful works of art, the ambience created at this location gently facilitates the conversation in small groups or romantic evenings. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Legendary club on a boat |
East Mud Dock The Grove Bristol BS1 4RB United Kingdom +44 117 929 3301 |
The infamous Thekla is one of Bristol's oldest clubs located inside an iron ship moored in the harbour. Do not expect super-club glam, do not bother dressing up and definitely do not look for any frills. However, what you can expect is top music; downstairs the live acts and DJs get the dance floor moving and upstairs is often more lively. Hosting various nights, from jungle to break beats to garage and funk, the crowd attracted is a good mix. This is the only club in the city where you can gaze out of portholes at swans asleep on the water below! Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Daniel Bracken |
 Photo: MatHampson |
 Photo: smushed_cow |
 Photo: Alice Bottini-Hall |
 Photo: Peter Broderick |
 Photo: Benjamin Brown |
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Pub With a Dance floor |
31 Corn Street Bristol BS1 5TL United Kingdom +117 945 9990 |
At Toad, the DJ plays urban tunes seven nights a week. There is a massive dance floor in case you get into the mood. For sports fanatics, there is a big screen with perennial sports feed. There's plenty food for the hungry as well - gorge on burgers, pastas and other specials. Happy hours: 4p-8p M-W, and 8p-10p Th-Sa. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Light up the harbourside |
The Waterfront, Canon's Road Bristol BS1 5UH United Kingdom +44 117 922 0382 |
With fabulous views over the harbour, this place is equally popular with families and business people at lunchtimes and beered-up, lively young things at night. Open until 1a Tu-Sa, it acts as a pre-club venue for the popular club Evolution next door and gets very busy and rather loud, as DJs play and people take to the small dancefloor. Dress smartly - if female that translates as lots of skin-tight lycra and if male, make sure you have your checked shirt and chinos on - or you may not be admitted. The bouncers are tough here, they have to be. For those after a quieter time, food is served daily until 8p and includes sandwiches, "lite-bites" (e.g. grilled sardines, mixed olives, pickled vegetables and ciabatta etc.) and main courses such as mussels cooked in white wine, and lamb's liver and bacon with potato and cabbage pie. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Aussie-mania in enormous city-centre bar |
40 Corn Street Bristol BS1 1HQ United Kingdom +44 117 930 0181 |
Walk in here and you'll think you're down-under. The bar staff are genuine Australians, the walls are covered in what looks like Aborigine art and the Aussie theme is just everywhere. It's in the menu - crocodile or kangaroo steak anyone? In the drinks - loads of Australian beers and mixers. In the love of sport - there's a TV screen the size of a small house in one of the rooms, showing, what else, sport. And finally, it's in the laid-back atmosphere, which, it has to be said, hots up considerably in the evenings, when this place becomes an absolute magnet for young locals wanting a lively night out. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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City centre meeting spot |
Units 1-3 The Colston Centre, Colston Avenue Bristol BS1 4UB United Kingdom +44 117 929 2304 |
Yates is not a bad spot for a pint or a meal in the city centre, but it must be admitted that the chain has become synonymous in Britain with a certain type of naffness - it was one of the first places to offer wines in pub-settings (hence the name), but was long ago eclipsed by trendier, more sophisticated places. The city's hip young things wouldn't be seen dead in here, but if you're not bothered about that, it's worth a visit for the following reasons. Firstly, in the daytime it's a good choice for some very filling pub-grub and traditional Sunday lunches. In the evenings, thanks to its frequent drinks promotions and its late licence, it becomes packed with 20, 30 and 40-somethings, all out to drink until they drop, making it perfect if you fancy a riotous night out. Yes, it's rough round the edges, but then, where isn't on a Friday night in England? Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |