Best Bring Your Own Bottle Restaurants in Bristol

Bristolians love to eat out, but as we all know restaurant alcohol prices can be a killer. Bring in the magical label of BYOB, however, and you can have a dining experience for which your bank balance will thank you.

By Charlie Walker | Updated Apr 12 2024

A wooden table with several bottles of red wine, each with a white label, arranged in a row. The background is softly blurred, suggesting an indoor setting with various objects and greenery. — Image © kaboompics

Like any cultural melting-pot Bristol is a city of many cuisines, so we’ve scouted out our favourite BYOB restaurants with incredible international dishes – where you’re free to enjoy the food with your own bottle of whatever you fancy.

A cappella

A close-up of a freshly-baked pizza topped with melted cheese, mushrooms, pieces of meat, and freshly torn basil. The pizza has a golden-brown crust and is presented on a white plate. Dim lighting creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. — Image Credit: Bristol Bites, A cappella

184C Wells Rd, BS4 2AL

A cappella is a café and pizzeria tucked between Totterdown and Knowle on Wells Road. Crowned Bristol’s best budget Italian by the Guardian, at this place they wear their authentic credentials with pride, with fresh mozzarella sourced straight from Naples.

Their traditional stone-baked pizzas and BYOB policy make them a highly popular haunt for locals and tourists alike looking for a great meal on the cheap.

Chai Shai Kitchen

A table filled with various Indian dishes including naan bread, yellow rice, spiced curry dishes, and assorted sauces. Two people are partially visible, seated and eating. There is also a drink bottle, a glass of water, and a glass of chai on the table. — Image via tripadvisor

4 Jacob's Wells Rd, BS8 4NF

Chai Shai - meaning ‘tea and more’ - can be found on Jacobs Wells Road. This restaurant serves Indian food with a modern twist, complete with miniature herb garden out front.

Opened in 2014 by former Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress of Bristol Faruk and Shilpi Choudhury, Chai Shai has become a key player on the Bristol food scene, boasting a menu that features seasonal dishes alongside classics from Indian street food cuisine.

Thai Garden

A white rectangular plate holds two crispy spring rolls on a bed of shredded cabbage. A small bowl of dipping sauce with red chili flakes is placed beside the spring rolls. In the background, there is a glass of water and a garnish of parsley and carrot. — Image via Tripadvisor

100 West Street, Bedminster, BS3 3LR

This unassuming restaurant is a little off the beaten track, but it is well worth the trip south of the river to Bedminster. Their sizeable menu has all the satay, pad Thai and deep-fried king prawns you could wish for, and the informal vibe is infectious.

Authentic and affordable, this Thai treasure is a great option for good food and a place to unwind.

Dain Korea

A table set with Korean cuisine including a bowl of spicy tteokbokki (stir-fried rice cakes), plates of assorted seasoned vegetables (spinach, carrots, and mushrooms), a small salad, a can of Diet Coke, and several small side dishes. Someone is holding chopsticks. — Image via Tripadvisor

27 Gloucester Road, BS7 8AA

If you’re a sucker for a good bibimbap, head to Dain Korea on Gloucester Road; one of Bristol’s hidden Korean gems (which also serves Japanese food).

With very reasonable prices, generous portions and friendly service, Dain Korea ticks the boxes when it comes to eating out - and the kimchi pancakes come highly recommended. Bring your own bottle for a relaxed dining experience on a budget.