Top places to eat in Cirencester

The market town of Cirencester, in Gloucestershire, is a truly charming place to visit. Known as ‘the capital of the Cotswolds’, it has a fascinating history and offers plenty to see and do. To learn more about its intriguing past, head to the Corinium Museum, where you can find out all about its Roman connections, as part of the town’s story which stretches from prehistoric times right up to the present day.

Perhaps a spot of shopping appeals. In that case, Cirencester is a treasure trove of independent shops, alongside a range of markets including the charter market and farmers’ market. The Woolmarket and the Stable Yard are well worth a visit for some retail therapy.

To fuel your Cirencester adventures, make the most of the plethora of restaurants and pubs where you can grab something delicious to eat and drink and soak up the charming Cotswold atmosphere of this wonderful town. We’ve gathered a selection of places to eat in Cirencester for your contemplation, and because you’ll want to spend a few days exploring the town, check out our selection of Cirencester holiday cottages by clicking the button below.   

Cirencester cottages

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Cirencester restaurants

A stay in Cirencester isn't complete without sampling some of the wide range of eateries on offer. With so many intriguing options to choose from, you might have a hard time choosing, so we thought we'd help by featuring five of our favourite Cirencester restaurants. 

Picture credits: La Passione

La Passione

Bringing a taste of Italy to Cirencester, La Passione caters to all types of occasion, from romantic meals for two to large family celebrations. You can enjoy a light-hearted lunch or a sociable dinner; how about a drink in the bar area to start the evening? Friendly staff will ensure all your needs are met and the restaurant itself has a welcoming and authentically-Italian ambience.

The mouthwatering menu offers a range of classics alongside more modern options: pizza and pasta dishes, as well as chicken, steak and fish options. From spaghetti carbonara to pollo alla passione, you’re spoilt for choice. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten and dairy-free options are available, and La Passione offers children’s portions.

Sam and Jak

Sam and Jak are passionate about creating seasonal menus reflecting the quality of the fabulous local produce available to them. The pair met back in 2009 while working at another Cirencester restaurant, and their journey towards owning their first independent venue included running their own outside catering company.

The simple yet stylish menu is a delight for all taste buds. You could pop in for breakfast – set yourself up for the day with a full English, breakfast bagel or French toast croissant – or make an evening of it. Meat eaters might be tempted by the grilled pork cutlet with ‘nduja sauce and roasted tropea onion, while for a meat-free meal, the pea, parmesan and courgette risotto might appeal.

Picture credits: MBB Brasserie

MBB Brasserie

Established in 2008, MBB Brasserie sits in the heart of Cirencester and is the perfect place for a sociable evening with friends and family. The stylish open-plan kitchen ensures you’ll feel part of the action, as the chefs cook up some magic using the best seasonal, local and international ingredients.  

As well as the daily menu and table d’hote fixed price menu, MBB Brasseries serves up a delightful Sunday lunch. If you don’t fancy a traditional roast (chicken, beef, pork or vegetarian with all the trimmings – including Yorkshire puds), then a reduced version of the main menu is also available, such as ribeye steak with chunky chips or the quinoa, vegetables and chickpea burger.

Côte Cirencester

Côte declares itself ‘Cirencester’s French restaurant for all occasions’ and it’s true that it exudes a certain je ne sais quoi. One of four branches across the region (the others are in Cheltenham, Gloucester and Bath), you’re in good hands if you want classic French cuisine in a vibrant and convivial surrounding.

Côte classics include beef cheek bourguignon, a dish which originated in Burgundy, tuna niçoise, a taste of the French Riviera, and poulet Breton rôti, featuring chicken responsibly reared in Northern France. Follow this up with one of the sumptuous desserts, such as crème caramel royale and apple tarte tatin. Staying in Cirencester for a special occasion? Then celebrate with a champagne brunch.

Picture credits: Igloo

Igloo

The family-run, family-owned Igloo is all about a relaxed dining experience where fresh food using locally sourced produce doesn’t break the bank. Call in for breakfast or a bottomless brunch to start your busy Cirencester day, or celebrate a day well spent with an enjoyable evening meal. Friday nights mean cocktail night, with 2-4-1 deals on drinks including the Moscow mule and strawberry daiquiri, as well as bottled beers and ciders.

The main menu offers a tantalising array of dishes. Tuck into a noodle bowl or get your chops around a chicken enchilada or the goat’s cheese and olive penne. The Igloo team take dietary requirements very seriously and there are vegan and gluten-free options available.

Pubs in Cirencester

Whether you're looking for a meal or a couple of pints on a sociable evening out, Cirencester's pubs will give you a warm welcome. For more inspiration, check out our guide to the best pubs in the Cotswolds.

The Bear Inn

You’re guaranteed a warm welcome at The Bear Inn, a Cirencester fixture since the 18^th century. The open fire provides a gorgeous glow on colder days, while the beer garden is great for sunny days and evenings – with the added bonus of being covered and heated. 

Head to the bar to sample the Butcombe beers, ales and ciders on offer, or enjoy a tasty, seasonal meal in the dining area. It’s well worth visiting on a Sunday and ordering The Bear’s iconic roast. For those with a sweet tooth, the desserts are also first class, including Triple Valrhona chocolate brownie with banana praline, chocolate sauce, and salted caramel ice cream or Yorkshire rhubarb and apple crumble.

Black Horse

You’ve had a lovely day exploring Cirencester or the surrounding area, and don’t fancy cooking back at the cottage. May we recommend spending an evening at the Black Horse? You’ll be treated royally by the staff and enjoy a wonderful meal into the bargain. They do a great line in cask ales, lagers, wines and spirits to wash it down with.

The menu offers pub classics from steak and ale pie to scampi and chips, which sit alongside burgers including the ultimate veggie burger and the cowboy burger. You can also order something from the grill. Feeling peckish at lunchtime? No problem: go for the lunch menu deal, or a sandwich, baguette or jacket potato.   

The Crown

Step through the door of The Crown and you’ll be made to feel like one of the family. This charming, family-run pub is right in the heart of the Cirencester community, sitting a stone’s throw from the parish church. Tuck into a hearty meal together in this relaxed and vibrant space.

A glance at The Crown’s summer menu reveals a treasure trove of delicious dishes. You can opt for a lighter bite such as Thai crab cakes or go all in with a southern fried chicken burger or a chargrilled 8oz ribeye steak with all the trimmings. Or possibly a hearty portion of chilli and cheese chips will keep hunger at bay?

Picture credit: The Fleece

The Fleece

Expect seasonal specials and pub classics taken to the next level at The Fleece. Right in the heart of Cirencester, this venue comprises a series of Grade II-listed buildings. It’s the perfect place to while away a memorable evening with friends and family. You can put the world to rights over a drink in the locals' bar or book a table in the atmospheric dining room.

Talented chefs work closely with local producers to create enticing menus for every season – and all times of day. Brunch, lunch or dinner; no matter when hunger strikes, The Fleece has something to suit all appetites. Signature dishes at the time of writing include crab tart and roasted pork belly.  

The Twelve Bells

Tucked away a short stroll from Cirencester town centre, The Twelve Bells is a quintessential English pub run by a friendly local couple with many years’ experience in the hospitality industry. Take your pick from the lively bar, cosy front room with wood burner, exclusive library (with just three tables), or the back room with a large table that might well suit a family celebration. On fine days, the beer garden beckons.

Wholesome pub grub is the order of the day. Think battered cod served with seasoned chips, peas and tartare sauce and Wiltshire ham, a brace of eggs and chips. The daily specials board is worth exploring and children’s portions are available.

Map of Cirencester places to eat

Here is a handy map of all the delicious places to eat while visiting Cirencester.

Stay in Cirencester

Give yourself time to visit a few of the restaurants and pubs mentioned above by booking a Cirencester holiday cottage. Whether you're on a long weekend with your special someone or enjoying a family reunion with nearest and dearest, we have a cottage to suit all tastes and requirements.

Cottages in Cirencester