One Fish Street Review: It doesn't get much better than this for a local independent. One Fish Street on Chandos Road has just received a glowing review from Brin Pirathapan, the 2024 MasterChef UK Champion. Brin called Bristol "the greatest food city in the UK" (we agree, obviously) and specifically praised this seafood spot for breathing new life into the neighbourhood. If you haven't been down to check out their new venture yet, this is your sign to book a table before it gets impossible to get in.

Dorothy's Diner Opening: Bringing some serious attitude and glitter to Park Street, Dorothy's Diner has officially launched in the former Garden of Eden site. This isn't your standard burger joint; it's a high-energy, drag-themed diner serving up loaded fries, hot dogs, and burgers with plenty of sass. It’s a bold addition to the late-night scene and looks like a proper laugh for a night out.

Plantuguese Opening: It’s official - the 100% plant-based Portuguese spot is opening its permanent home on Stokes Croft this Friday (taking over the old Caribbean Croft site). Owners Tiago and Gerda, who you might know from St Nick's Market, are celebrating by giving away 200 free pastel de natas to the first customers who reserve a table. Expect "octopus" made from sea plants, lion's mane steaks, and king oyster mushroom "scallops" as they look to plant a bit of Portugal in the heart of Bristol.

Flat Iron Opening: As we warned you last week, the queues for the pre-opening event on Clare Street were absolutely massive. If you didn't manage to snag one of the 300 free Wagyu steaks they gave away on Thursday, don't worry - the doors are now officially open for regular service. You can now head in for their famous affordable steaks and beef dripping chips without the chaotic queues (well, hopefully). They are accepting both walk-ins and bookings.

Adelina Yard Review: Celebrating their 10th anniversary in style, Adelina Yard has just secured a review calling their December tasting menu the "meal of the year." The praise focused on their creative, refined dishes and a standout "chilled mulled whisky Fairytale cocktail." It’s a reminder that while new places open all the time, this veteran of the harbourside is still at the very top of its game.

Whyte's x Bank (Dec 11th): This Thursday, Totterdown is the place to be. Whyte's is joining forces with BANK for a massive one-night-only collaboration menu. Expect big winter flavours and live-fire cooking, featuring dishes like Yorkshire puds with whipped cod’s roe and truffled Romanesco cauliflower cheese.

Beer & Carols at The Lansdown (Dec 11th): For a proper traditional Christmas evening, head to The Lansdown in Clifton this Thursday from 7:30 PM. They are hosting their annual "Beer & Carols" night. It’s a charity fundraiser with a great community atmosphere - perfect for getting into the spirit with a pint in hand.

Frankie's Fried Chicken (Dec 11th): Fried chicken fans, take note. Frankie's current residency at Kitchen by Kask is coming to an end. Starting this Thursday, they enter their final two weeks of service. It's your last chance to catch them this year, and they are celebrating with a proper festive menu featuring "crimbo chicken and waffle" with brie bechamel. They wrap up on December 21st, so get in quick.

SOSIJ Supper Club (Dec 12th): On Friday evening (5-9 PM), take a trip out to Manor Farm in Upton Cheyney for a comforting winter feast by SOSIJ. There are no pre-orders needed, just turn up for raclette (melted cheese over roasties), smoked artisanal hot dogs, and mulled cider.

Tobacco Factory Festive Market (Dec 14th): The third instalment of the Tobacco Factory Festive Market is this Sunday, and they’ve pulled out all the stops for the food. It’s their biggest lineup yet, featuring She Sells Sushi, Cyprus Kitchen, and Niang's Thai alongside the usual local makers.

We’ve swapped out our usual Local Highlight this week to focus on the big one: New Year's Eve. We know the pressure to find a decent plan is real, so we've curated a list of events that prioritise good food and drink over overpriced entry fees and cold queues. From seafood feasts to King Street block parties, these are the foodie-approved ways to ring in 2026.

Pazzo (Dec 31st): Pazzo is hosting a "Party at Pazzo" with two sittings: an early family one and a later "naughty" one. Expect a special menu, cocktails by Dom, and the music turned up loud.

Root (Dec 31st): For £50pp, Root is serving a stunning sharing menu including smoked mushroom kiev, grilled cabbage with peppercorn sauce, and honey & brown butter custard tart. A perfect option for a veg-centric celebration.

Bianchis (Dec 31st): Bianchis is putting on a "Capodanno" (New Year's) five-course Northern Italian feast for £65pp. The menu includes indulgent dishes like house-smoked ricotta tortelli and duck breast with cime di rapa, all set to a "golden disco soundtrack."

The Granary Club (Dec 31st): The Granary Club is throwing a "Great Gatsby" themed party. For just £20, you get arrival fizz, canapés, burlesque performances, and a DJ playing jazz and swing to ring in the new year.

Caper & Cure's Seafood Feast (Dec 31st): Perfect for those who want to celebrate early or line the stomach in style. Caper & Cure is hosting a 4-course seafood feast (£60pp) between 12pm and 3pm, featuring oysters, lobster, and plenty of champagne. It’s a sophisticated start to the festivities and a far cry from the usual chaos.

Renato’s x Small Bar Block Party (Dec 31st): King Street legends Renato’s and Small Bar are teaming up for a ticketed joint party. Expect the usual top-tier craft beer and Detroit pizzas, plus DJs spinning until late. Tickets are flying for this one - it’s rare to see these two heavyweights join forces like this.

No Fuss NYE at No.1 Harbourside (Dec 31st): Another solid free entry option. No.1 Harbourside is promising "NYE without the fuss." No expensive tickets, no queues, just live beats, local beers, and their burger menu served until 9pm. Ideal if you want the atmosphere without the admin.

Bosco Pizzeria Opening: A quick shout-out to a Bristol favourite spreading its wings. Bosco Pizzeria has opened its first site outside of England, taking their wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas to the High Street in Cardiff. If you're heading over the bridge for Christmas shopping, you know where to go for a familiar slice of home.

Earthbound Closing: We are ending on a sad note this week. The much-loved Earthbound on Cotham Hill is retiring and closing its doors this week (Dec 13th). The outpouring of love on social media shows just how much this spot meant to the local community. If you can, pop in this week to say goodbye and grab a final coffee or lunch.

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