The Best Restaurants in Wells
Wells, a picturesque town in the heart of Somerset, is not just home to a stunning Cathedral and the historic Bishops Palace. It's also a culinary hotspot, boasting a delectable variety of restaurants that cater to every taste. If you're a local foodie or a tourist seeking an unforgettable dining experience, Wells is the place to be. In this guide, we take you on a gastronomic tour of the top five restaurants in Wells, each offering a unique blend of flavour, ambiance, and service.
1. Root
Opening in 2017, the owners (Josh Eggleton and Luke Hasell) of the Michelin starred Root Wells wanted to create a forward-thinking restaurant that championed local suppliers and producers, and led with a ‘more veg, less meat’ ethos. After the success of Root, Bristol, Head Chef Rob Howell and his wife and Manager Meg Oakley wanted to bring a neighbourhood restaurant to their home of Wells.
Signature Dish: The Cheese Choux puffs with smoked chilli mayonnaise are a crowd favourite, and the Wye Valley asparagus with Alicante sauce and crispy egg is an absolute must-try!
2. The Greek Taverna
A family run restaurant offering authentic Greek meze, grilled meats and seafood in the heart of Wells. Brother and Sister owners of The Greek Taverna – Yianni and Olga – ran a hotel/restaurant back home in Greece for many years before moving to England, bringing with them their family favourite recipes. There is much emphasis placed on sourcing and using the best local produce, as well as using the local high street butcher, however only the best imported premium quality feta cheese, olive oil and oregano is used for a true taste of Greece.
Signature Dish: Have you truly visited a Greek restaurant if you haven’t tried their Tzatziki? The Loukanika is a must try, as it includes a unique Greek sausage recipe made exclusively for the restaurant by Griffiths – the local butcher.
3. Rugantino
Situated directly on the Cathedral green with spectacular views of the Western front of Wells Cathedral, Rugantino is a family run Italian restaurant that has been running for over 40 years. As well as making their own fresh pizza dough and pasta daily, they provide a good variety of meat and fish dishes alongside a wide range of vegetarian and vegan options. This charming restaurant seats around 50 people (so book to avoid disappointment!), and backs onto the Ancient Gatehouse hotel which houses nine beautiful rooms, should you require staying in Wells overnight.
Signature Dish: The Tagliatelle Alfredo is a popular choice, and the Seafood Linguini is favoured amongst locals.
4. Rajah Spice Tandoori
When visiting Wells and you find yourself craving some spicy, aromatic Indian food, pay a visit to Rajah Spice Tandoori. This popular restaurant is dedicated to bringing authentic Indian dishes to the British food enthusiast. As their website states - the cuisine will transport you on an aromatic, flavourful, and spicy gourmet trip. It’s an experience that you will keep coming back for more!
Signature Dish: Are you a fan of seafood? Try the delectable Rajah Special King Prawn – cooked in a signature medium-spiced, thick sauce and served with pilau rice. For the meat lover, you can’t go wrong with the Shahi Morgi Masala. On-the-bone marinated chicken cooked in the tandoor first, and then finished in a medium-spiced sauce with minced meat and fresh herbs.
5. The Olive Tree
The Olive Tree reflects the essence of the Mediterranean in the heart of Wells. This familial restaurant prides itself on a menu that showcases the delicacies of Greek cuisine with a nod to the Cypriot heritage of the head chef. Guests are welcomed with open arms and are immediately made to feel at home. The succulent grilled meats, fresh seafood, and an array of vegetarian and vegan options make The Olive Tree a versatile choice for diners. The open kitchen invites patrons to observe the chefs' skills at work, while the restaurant's panoramic views of the cathedral provide a spectacular backdrop for any meal. Read the reviews!
Signature Dish: Pan-roasted fillet of ling served with a delicate bouillabaisse infused with a hint of Pernod.
Making Reservations and Planning Your Visit
Locals and tourists love these popular dining spots. It's wise to book ahead. When exploring Wells' food scene in Somerset, enjoy the diversity. From comforting Italian favourites at Rugantino, to the Indian Spices of Rajah Tandoori and back to Michelin star quality, British dishes at Root - Wells offers a diverse culinary experience to cater to every palate.
Key Takeaways
Discover local food fests and markets showcasing the region's specialties. Try Cheddar Gorge cheese, Somerset cider, and the famous beef and cider pies. Wells is a town that caters to those who appreciate good food and memorable dining experiences. If you're a local looking for a new favourite spot or a tourist seeking a meal at a popular local restaurant, the top five restaurants in Wells offer the best of culinary excellence. Make your visit to Wells a complete experience by staying at your Cookswood luxury holiday home, a stone's throw away from these remarkable dining destinations. Your culinary adventure awaits - bon appétit!