Sunday roasts are a long-established tradition in Britain. Whether you cook up a storm in your own kitchen or you make a day out of it at a warm winter pub, it’s a weekly event made up of catch-ups and get-togethers with your loved ones over a steaming hot plate of comfort food. The subject of best roasts in Bristol is certainly a contentious one but only because our gastronomic city is a mecca of ravenous roasts to get stuck into. Here’s our pick of the bunch - but feel free to let us know if we’ve missed out a roast worthy of recommendation.
The Bank Tavern, Broadmead
Credit to Charlie Harding
Having achieved cult status with their low-cost, generously portioned Sunday servings that have been described as “faultless”, “astounding” and “majestic” by their loyal fans. This legendary roast was named Bristol’s Best Sunday Lunch at the Bristol Good Food Awards in 2018, Observe le Food monthly awards in 2019 and have been applauded for their locally sourced ingredients and vegetarian options that are just as mouth-watering as the meat cuts. But don’t think about booking a roast here this Sunday, or any in the near future as a matter of fact: there aren’t any free tables for the next 16 months - yep, it’s fully booked until June 2021.
Yurt Lush, Temple Meads
In true Bristol fashion, the roasts at Yurt Lush live up to the eatery’s name. Another previous winner of the city’s greatest Sunday lunch, the roasts are all lovingly prepared a week in advance using only the freshest local ingredients. Quality components like sirloin, ox cheek and pork belly are a mainstay but add-ons like the cheesy cauliflower and leek gratin are a must-have if you’re looking to indulge. This one is for the foodie bucket lists.
The Lock Up, Redfield
The options at this trendy haunt are plentiful, which is why it has become a firm favourite among Bristolians. And what’s even better is that all these choices exceed expectations: beef, pork, nut roasts and rarer meal centrepieces like lamb and hake. Piled high with a huge Yorkshire pudding and vegetables that don’t scrimp, make sure to grab a bowl of the divine cauliflower cheese. Buddy up with two for £10 on Bloody Marys and Bucks Fizz all-day on Sundays, leaving no excuse but to make it a celebration.
The Love Inn, Stokes Croft
Did you know this popular bar also serves some of the best roasts in the land? Truly a hidden gem of the Sunday scene, they’re spooned out on the 7th day of the week by pop-up kitchen Tubby’s Corner. There’s two veggie options on offer as well as beef, chicken and pork belly, all of which are joined on the plate by - deep breath - swede mash, carrots, lemon greens, red cabbage, plantain, stuffing, tatties and puds. Supersize your meal with the to-die-for big pigs in blankets.
Green Man, Kingsdown
Gravy boats at the ready for your Sunday suppers in this cosy pub just off St. Michael’s Hill. Housed in a characterful Grade II listed building, the roasts are renowned for their value, which is why securing a spot proves to be difficult. From deep-fried croquettes to crispy parsnips to brussel sprouts with bacon, the sides are known to be tremendous and the staff accommodating to veggies and vegans. We can promise this lives up to the hype.
The Lion, Cliftonwood
Gastropubs don’t come any more charming than The Lion. Bright and airy by day and illuminated by fairy lights at night, you’ll find classically brilliant roasts just off Hotwells Road. Purists beware, though: only the beef comes with roasties by standard; the lentil roast, pork, lamb and chicken are all accompanied by luxurious dauphinoise potatoes, but we believe this is a welcome treat. Celiacs need not be shy here either as all their roasts have a gluten-free option available on request.
Have we missed out your favourite roast in Bristol? Be sure to shout about your top picks and let us know where we should venture next.