Two Bristol Indian restaurants have been listed among the best in the UK according to the British Indian Food Guide‘s Top 100. Mowgli Street Food on Corn Street, and Nutmeg – which has a street food kitchen in the city centre and a restaurant in Clifton Village – are the only two Bristol eateries featured in this year’s list.
Mowgli opened in December 2023, four years in the making after the Covid-19 pandemic caused a delay. Along with the pandemic, restoration of the Grade II-listed building within which it sits, pushed back the reopening of what had been a restaurant on many a foodie’s wishlist for the city. The building’s rich history meant it was a more complicated project than anticipated, with delays to the build and planning process even before covid shut operations down.
The building was formerly occupied by Pizza Express. And now, Mowgli has impressed diners with its food and enchanting decor. One reviewer, shortly after it opened, wrote: “So glad there is now a Mowgli in Bristol, had such a lovely evening here! The décor is so pretty (especially if you’re a sucker for fairy lights like me).
“The food was amazing, such a great selection of meat and vegetarian dishes. Would definitely recommend the chat bombs and monkey wrap.
“The desserts we had were delicious and you can’t go wrong with any of the cocktails too. The service we received was fantastic, cannot wait to come back again soon!”
With 4.4 stars out of five on Google, Mowgli describes itself as “transporting you to the exotic Indian street food markets of Varanasi, Mowgli Bristol is set inside an elegantly high-ceilinged building on Corn Street. Showcasing all of Mowgli’s hanging vines, trees and lights, this grand ancient space mirrors and Indian bygone era whilst offering you the fresh, light zing of Mowgli’s firm classics…
“Mowgli was born to feed the raw need Indians have for tiffins full of fresh bright intense flavour. Our food is about the smash and grab zing of healthy, light virtuosic herbs, and spices.”
Items on its menu include a range of dishes, as well as a ‘curry pot luck’, and more.
The second Bristol Indian on the list Nutmeg, located at The Mall, Clifton Village – describes itself as “a vibrant, independent Indian restaurant based in Clifton Village, Bristol, with a menu inspired by the diversity of India and its 29 states, which stretch from the pulse regions of the Himalayas in the north, to the spice and seafood abundance of tropical south India.
“Founded in 2016 by culinary enthusiast Raja Munuswamy, Nutmeg is Bristol’s gateway to India’s diverse flavors. From bustling street markets to upscale restaurants, Raja’s journey across India inspired a unique Bristol menu, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of all 29 Indian states.”
Dishes on the menu include an array of starters, biryanis, sides, mains, breads and rice – including dishes such as onion bhaji, tandoori gobi, tarka dahl, fish moli, and pork belly vindaloo, among others.
With a 4.7 star rating on Google, reviewers consistently commend the food and service, here. One such recent review reads: “One of our favourites in Bristol! Really high quality and fantastic flavours throughout the menu. Would always make sure to book a table as typically very busy!”
On Bristol’s food scene, the British Indian Good Food Guide said: “Bristol is a city known for its eclectic food scene, and Indian cuisine holds a special place in its diverse culinary offerings. Whether you’re looking for traditional Indian dishes or modern interpretations, Bristol has something to satisfy your cravings.”
The Mint Room in Clifton was also listed as being one of the top Indian restaurants in Bristol this year, however the restaurant announced its closure after almost 10 years in the city, back in June.