££Traditional Cuisine
Sitting a short walk from the city centre, this 1850s-era pub blends in with Chester’s historic architecture thanks to its red-brick and mock-Tudor exterior. It’s received a top-to-toe refurbishment in recent years, with a proper pubby feel remaining in the downstairs bar thanks to its wood panelling, flagged floors and open fires – plus regularly changing ales on tap of course. The first-floor dining rooms are the place to go for wholesome British dishes with a few nods to the Mediterranean. For dessert, look out for the soda bread treacle tart.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Kew, The Jolly Gardeners offers traditional cuisine in a welcoming, community-focused setting. Positive reviews highlight good food quality, friendly staff, and a pleasant atmosphere suitable for families and events like football matches. However, negative feedback points to inconsistent service, particularly slow meal pacing during peak times and occasional unfriendly attitudes. Some guests note that value for money is average, with prices perceived as slightly higher than nearby pubs. The experience varies significantly depending on timing and specific staff members.
Suitable for families or visitors seeking a traditional pub experience; visiting during off-peak hours is recommended for better service.
££££Modern Cuisine
A fine, Grade II building, The Chester Grosvenor hotel has stood in the heart of the city since the 19th century, and its signature restaurant – named after a famous racehorse – is decked out in the same kind of classically formal elegance the hotel is known for. The menus highlight the best of British produce, from Isle of Wight tomatoes to Herdwick hogget, and the modern dishes are flavoursome and eye-catchingly presented. Extend your evening with a drink in the chic cocktail lounge.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Arkle, located in Hough Green, offers modern cuisine with high ratings (4.7/5). Food quality is frequently praised, particularly the innovative tasting menu and Wednesday ABC event, though some guests noted issues with dish temperatures or flavors. Service is generally described as professional and attentive, with sommelier support, yet occasional complaints cite slow greeting and ordering responses. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, suitable for celebrations, although some visitors felt the casual dress code diminished the formal dining experience. Regarding value, most find it justified, while others consider the price point high relative to the service polish. Overall, it remains a top choice for special occasions.
Ideal for diners seeking refined modern cuisine for special occasions, with attention to service consistency.
££Modern Cuisine
One of several eateries run by chef-restaurateur Andrew Sheridan, this Chester operation was inspired by the fact Sheridan’s first job in a professional kitchen was right here in this historic city. Just six tables make up Noted’s intimate dining room, where the menu is designed for sharing and focuses on British produce mixed with a range of international flavours, be that prawn toast bao bun or crab arancino. On Sundays, the kitchen looks back to the 1980s for inspiration and serves a sharing-style roast dinner.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Noted in Catterick is a beloved independent shop known for its modern cuisine and extensive selection of pies, quiches, pastries, and cooked meats. Reviews frequently highlight the high quality and taste of their food, with many praising the pork pies and friendly staff. While the exterior may seem modest, the interior offers a wide variety of options. However, some customers express concerns regarding value for money and inconsistent portion sizes, with rare but serious complaints about food safety and undercooked items. It is a charming spot for traditional homemade flavors, though visitors are advised to arrive early to ensure the best selection.
Ideal for travelers seeking authentic handmade pies and cooked meats, arriving early is recommended for the best selection.
£££Meats and Grills
Inspired by the steakhouses of New York, Upstairs at the Grill has a chic yet cosy atmosphere, courtesy of its mix of modern and retro elements. Prime quality steaks include porterhouse and bone-in fillet or rib-eye; the 5-week dry-aged cuts are from premium Welsh beef, and various rare breeds are sourced from around the world.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Upstairs at the Grill offers a meat-focused dining experience in Hough Green with generally positive feedback. Food quality is highly rated, with steaks, lamb rump, and desserts like Ferrero Rocher receiving praise. Service is often described as professional and attentive, though some guests noted issues with meal pacing, seating delays, or lackluster greetings. The atmosphere is comfortable and elegant. While isolated complaints exist regarding wait times and disjointed experiences, the consistent quality of cuisine and knowledgeable staff make it a reliable choice for those seeking a refined meal.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality meats and an elegant setting; advance booking is recommended.
£££British Contemporary
A family business has been run on this 17th-century premises for three generations. For many years it was a butcher's shop, the current incarnation of which now sits two doors down, and today Sommelier Vicki has taken on the mantle to run it as this sweet restaurant with her husband Richard. His dishes are founded on excellent quality ingredients, from both specialist suppliers and their own butcher's – like supremely flavoursome Welsh Black beef. Low-ceilinged rooms and exposed beams add to the charm.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Next Door in Frodsham offers contemporary British cuisine with a strong 4.5/5 TripAdvisor rating. Reviewers frequently praise the high-quality, locally sourced ingredients and flavorful dishes, particularly noting the impressive nine-course tasting menu and lunch selections. The atmosphere combines rustic charm with modern polish, creating a warm setting ideal for celebrations. Service is generally described as helpful and friendly, though some guests experienced slow pacing or communication issues due to quiet staff. While many find the value good, a minority felt the food was overpriced or portions insufficient. Overall, it is a reliable choice for fine dining, despite occasional inconsistencies in service speed.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality contemporary British cuisine for special occasions.