Nadu Review: If you're looking for an antidote to the incoming wave of turkey and stuffing, get yourself to Stokes Croft. A recent review by @easy.thaifood has declared us "officially obsessed" with Nadu, specifically singling out their slow-cooked Black Pork Kari as "unreal" and "out of this world." It is a massive endorsement for the team and a reminder that the city's Sri Lankan scene is absolutely thriving right now.

Haute Dolci Opening: Signage has officially appeared at Cabot Circus for Haute Dolci, a luxury dessert and brunch cafe taking over the unit next to Escape Hunt. While the hoarding teases "life's sweetest moments" we now know the menu goes beyond just sugar; expect everything from mac n cheese and arrabbiata pasta to brunch staples like egg muffins and omelettes, alongside their famous patisserie. No official opening date has been confirmed yet, but previous openings in Manchester saw them hiding "golden keys" around the city for finders to get discounts - so it might be worth keeping your eyes peeled just in case.

The Cheese Connection Festive Boards: It might be Wapping Wharf's newest addition, but this spot is already getting plenty of love online from the local food community. Owned by Luke (a familiar face from his mobile cheese van days with 20+ years in the game), it is the place to get your Christmas cheeseboard sorted this week. They are stocking serious local hitters like "Gert Lush", "Driftwood" and "Kelston Park".

Winkle Picker x The Scrandit (Dec 18th): The Scrandit on the Christmas Steps is closing out the year with a classy pop-up. This Thursday is one of your last chances to catch Winkle Picker serving a menu of elite bar snacks, including crispy fried scallops with chilli and Devon brown crab rarebit. There is a special Oyster Happy Hour from 5:30-6:30 pm (£2.50 a shuck).

Lone Rambler Christmas Special (Dec 18th): A brilliant alternative Christmas party happening at 6 pm. The Lone Rambler shop is ditching the mulled wine for beer and tacos. Alta Loma will be slinging tacos out front, and the John E Vistic Band will be playing live country music.

Drizzle After Dark (Dec 18th): Another reason to head to the Christmas Steps this Thursday. Drizzle is staying open late (until late) for a festive evening. They'll have fresh festive loaves, new hot drinks (hot choc & matcha), music, and a raffle. Perfect for a cosy pitstop if you're doing late-night shopping.

Finzels Reach Market (Dec 19th): This Friday marks the final Finzels Reach Market of the year, and the traders are bringing the festive goods. Look out for Gurt Wings' Oumi cheese bites with cranberry dip, Bake 16.17's Christmas Yule Log, and For Mice and Men's honey mustard glazed Christmas ham.

Renato's Christmas Party (Dec 20th): King Street legend Renato’s is throwing a Christmas bash this Saturday. It's the "last slice of DJing for 2025" with Tom From Space on the decks playing funk, soul, and disco. Expect their famous Detroit-style pizzas and plenty of festive drinks from 8 pm until late.

Tobacco Factory Sunday Market (Dec 21st): This Sunday is your last chance to catch the street food traders at the Tobacco Factory for 2025. The lineup includes Ah Ma's Dumplings, Gurt Wings, Big Nath's BBQ, and Jim's Pizza. A perfect spot to grab a bite while finishing your last-minute gift shopping.

This week’s highlight comes with a bit of a "Buzz Alert" and an SOS. Fat Dad's Kitchen has just received a massive 10/10 rating in a recent review, with their "Schmokie" and "Sloppy Joe" burgers being hailed as some of the absolute best in Bristol.

However, this praise comes at a critical moment. Their residency at The Gallimaufry is ending, and they are urgently on the hunt for a new kitchen. We cannot lose a gem like this from the scene. If you know a pub or venue looking for one of Bristol's best burger slingers to take over their kitchen, get in touch with them immediately. Let’s help keep these 10/10 burgers in Bristol.

More info: instagram.com/fatdadskitchen

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