We can all agree that there are times when nothing can beat having a hearty bowl of pasta. Whether you want to experience going to a homely family-run restaurant or somewhere a bit fancier, Bristol has a number of scrumptious traditional Italian pasta restaurants which you can get stuck right into. Here is a list of some of the best places to choose from.
1. Moltobuono!59
Moltobuono is a family-owned restaurant, with their menu having been handed down for a number of years. The restaurant has become loved by many, and particularly due to their freshly made pasta using flour and eggs sourced from Italy giving the dishes a real authentic feel. What is great about Moltobuono is that you can order these delicious dishes without breaking the bank. Their rich tomato pasta with basil and mascarpone cheese is a winner.
Address: 59 Park St, Bristol BS1 5NU
2. Pasta Ripiena
Pasta Ripiena has become notorious due to the food critic Jay Rayner rating their pasta so highly – describing it as “silkily delicious”. The restaurant specialises in folded pasta dishes such as ravioli, mezzaluna and cappellacci. So, if you love a good pasta dish which bursts with flavour as you bite into it, Pasta Ripiena is the place to go. The best time to go if you are watching your spending is to go at lunch as their set menu is decently priced.
Address: 33 St Stephen’s St, Bristol BS1 1JX
3. Giuseppe’s
Giuseppe is another well-established pasta restaurant, having perfected their dishes for over 35 years. Its menu is centred around the seasonal produce they source from the markets, filling their dishes with rich flavours. Giuseppe has an amazing lunch menu, offering any pasta dish with a glass of wine for just £10! The star of the menu for me is the gnocchi all sorentina.
Address: 59 Baldwin St, Bristol BS1 1QZ
4. San Carlo
If you are a sucker for going to restaurants awarded for their delicious menus, you need to head to San Carlo. San Carlo is a prestigious pasta place which has been voted one of the top 10 Italian restaurants in the UK by the Times newspaper. It has also been the winner of 36 industry and consumer food and drink awards. One of their most popular pasta dishes is based on traditional Southern Italian flavours, served with aubergine, tomato, basil and garlic, topped with pecorino cheese.
Address: 44 Corn St, Bristol BS1 1HQ
5. Bosco Pizzeria
Dotted around Bristol in several areas, Bosco Pizzeria is always a solid choice when it comes to choosing where to get your next pasta fix. Dining at Bosco Pizzeria is always an experience as its chic interior makes you feel that you have levelled up and are having your meal at a luxurious restaurant. When I am feeling a little fancy, a personal favourite of mine is the duck ragu, served with egg pappardelle and aged parmesan.
Address: 96 Whiteladies Rd, Clifton, Bristol BS8 2QX
6. Bella Vista
A traditional family-run restaurant nestled in the heart of Bristol, Bella Vista offers both classical and unique pasta dishes alongside beautiful views of the riverside. They pride themselves on authenticity and using responsibly sourced ingredients to make the tastiest meals. With a selection of different menus to choose from, Bella Vista spoils you for choice!
Address: 2B Victoria St, Redcliffe, Bristol BS1 6DT
7. Prego
Prego, located in Westbury-on-Trym, is a classic Italian eatery that has been a favourite amongst locals. With a friendly and cosy atmosphere and a focus on authentic dishes, Prego is the place to go for comforting, unpretentious Italian food, including excellent pasta. They have a fully covered and heated terrace so you can make the most of the last few days of summer! Even better, they make fresh pasta in-house daily, so you can enjoy the very best quality pasta dishes. Prego also offers click and collect takeaway, so if you’re in the mood for enjoying fresh Italian pasta at home, it’s a perfect option for a cosy night in.
Address: 7 North View, Westbury Park, Bristol BS6 7PT
8. Cotto
Located on St Stephen’s Street in the heart of Bristol, Cotto provides home-cooking in a warm atmosphere that makes for a wonderful Italian dining experience. The restaurant is small and cosy, creating an intimate setting perfect for enjoying well-executed pasta dishes. Cotto takes pride in its simplicity and authenticity, focusing on traditional Italian techniques while using the finest ingredients.
Address: 31, Saint Stephen’s Street, Bristol BS1 1JX
9. Pastan
Located between Bristol’s Harbourside and Queen Square, Pastan offers a relaxed space where you can enjoy a range of plant-based pasta dishes. They have also recently added 100% vegan pizzas to their menu, so make sure to try one of those!
Address: 53, Prince Street, Bristol BS1 4QH
10. Zerodegrees
Zerodegrees is a microbrewery and restaurant that offers house-brewed beers alongside a delicious menu of pasta dishes and pizzas. With its large, industrial-chic interior, this spot is perfect for casual dining in a vibrant atmosphere. Their award-winning microbrewery restaurant spans two floors, blending unique decor with a rich history that beer lovers and history buffs will appreciate.
Address: 53 Colston Street, Bristol BS1 5BA
That’s it for our list of the best pasta places in Bristol. Have we missed any? If you want to explore more of Bristol’s food scene, check out our article on the best bottomless brunch places around the city.
Last Updated on September 10, 2024
Published on November 8, 2021
