Lancaster restaurants are as diverse and welcoming as the city itself. Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional British meal, a taste of international cuisine, or a refined dining experience, Lancaster’s culinary offerings are sure to satisfy your cravings. In this blog, we will take you on a journey through the best places to eat in Lancaster.
What food is Lancaster, UK known for?
One of the most famous foods in Lancaster is the Lancashire hotpot. It is a stew originating in Lancashire in the North West of England, and the name comes from the pot it’s cooked in. It consists of lamb or mutton and onion, topped with sliced potatoes, and slowly baked in a pot at low heat. The ingredients are simple, but they make for a warming and tasty recipe. You can find this dish in many Lancaster restaurants.
There are also many other Lancaster local specialities and popular foods, including goat’s cheese, butter pie, rag pudding, etc. They are just the tip of the iceberg of Lancaster’s diverse food scene. Whether you’re looking for traditional British fare or something more international, Lancaster restaurants have a lot to offer.
Best Restaurants in Lancaster
The Borough
The Borough is a bustling pub, restaurant and hotel located in the centre of Lancaster, spread over three floors of a Georgian townhouse. It was named the best pub in Lancaster as voted for by the readers of the Lancaster Guardian in 2016. It has a great team of Chefs who are creating everything from pub classics to superb specials and delicious desserts. They use the most fresh ingredients: eggs are free-range, and chicken, beef, pork and lamb are from local farms. At The Borough Lancaster, you can also find a garden and a bar with an extensive range of drinks.
Merchants 1688
Merchants 1688 stands out for its culinary delights and inviting atmosphere. It is set in 300-year-old wine merchants’ cellars, with a peaceful beer garden to the front. This restaurant and bar serves excellent British cuisine, 8 real ales and a selection of fine wines. All meals are freshly prepared on-site using the best locally sourced ingredients, the meat coming from the fells and fields of Cumbria and Lancashire, and the fish delivered fresh from Fleetwood. There is also fresh ground coffee.
The White Cross
The White Cross is situated in a refurbished cotton mill warehouse which was part of the old Storey’s Cotton Mill that was built next to Lancaster’s main canal. An original stone white cross was found just two hundred meters away, near where the current bridge on South Road crosses the canal. Canal-side seating makes this a popular venue on summer evenings. They have a vigorous guest beer policy concentrating on local breweries, including Tirril and Dent Breweries. Classic British freshly prepared menu is available every day from 12 till 9 pm with roasts on Sundays.
The Three Mariners
The Three Mariners isn’t just a pub, it’s the oldest and most historical pub in Lancaster. It is located inside a Grade II listed building dating back to the 15th century and one of only two sites in Britain with an original gravity-fed cellar. There is classic British cuisine on the menu and a lengthy list of craft beers. Start with a potted crab or black pudding stack, then move on to a traditional fish and chips, Lancashire hotpot or a damn good gammon steak. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a hearty meal, The Three Mariners has something for everyone.
The Quarterhouse
The Water Witch
The Water Witch is situated on the picturesque Lancaster Canal, a five-minute stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the historic city centre. It was originally converted from purpose-built stables in 1978 and offers a range of high-quality dishes ranging from Great British classics to continental cuisine. They always serve you the very best of what’s in season. At the same time, The Water Witch is a dog-friendly pub, where water, treats and cuddles are always available.
Toll House Inn
Toll House Inn is one of the best restaurants in Lancaster. It is set in a historic building located next to the canal, a short stroll from the city centre. They serve hearty, home-cooked food, ranging from sandwiches to steaks, as well as locally sourced specials and quality cask ales. Guests can enjoy seasonal cuisine in the dining room or in the courtyard. The kitchen uses locally sourced produce, whilst the bar serves local cask ales and hand-picked wines from small vineyards. Toll House Inn is the perfect place to stay in Lancaster to enjoy the city, coast, and country.
Italian Restaurants in lancaster
Zizzi
Spaghetti House
The Spaghetti House is a family-owned Italian restaurant in Lancaster city centre since February 2000. They offer an a la carte, pizza, and pasta menus as well as happy hour specials. Home-cooked quality food, only using the best ingredients. All dishes can be changed in order to suit all tastes and preferences. The service was fantastic, attentive staff and very efficient. The Spaghetti House restaurant in Lancaster also has loyalty cards available.
Etna Pizza Pasta
When it comes to authentic Italian restaurants in Lancaster, Etna Pizza Pasta is undoubtedly a worthwhile choice to consider. It is loved by diners for its authentic Italian flavour, moderate price, and comfortable atmosphere. You can easily infer from the name that Etna Pizza Pasta specializes in Italian pizza and pasta. At the same time, it also offers other European-style dishes, especially the speciality cuisine of Sicily. The decoration of the restaurant are very distinctive, making customers feel as if they are in Italy.
Thai Restaurants in Lancaster
Araya Thai Restaurant
Araya is a traditional Thai restaurant in Lancaster serving authentic Thai cuisine. It always seeks the best quality ingredients and elevate your experience in Thai traditional food and culture. The head chef has 22 years experience and has travelled all over the world working in 5-star hotels and restaurants specialising in traditional Thai cooking. Dishes include Chicken Satay, Goong Chup Pang Tord, Spare Ribs, Phad Thai, a variety of Curry dishes and Stir Fried dishes, and plenty of vegetarian options. You can also enjoy Thai cuisine at home as Araya also provides takeaway and delivery.
Two Thai
Two Thai restaurant in Lancaster was founded in 2017 by two best friends with a passion for bringing authentic Thai street food to the streets of Lancaster. The restaurant’s menu includes a variety of traditional Thai cuisine, such as Pad Thai, red curry, beef, and so on. These dishes are known for their unique spice combinations, sour and spicy flavours, and a wide variety of ingredients. The customers review that the food is considered authentic and delicious, and the service is friendly.
Chinese Restaurants in Lancaster
Full House Noodle Bar
Full House Noodle Bar is a popular Chinese restaurant in Lancaster, a must-visit for those craving authentic Chinese flavours. It is famous for its wide variety of delicious noodle dishes. From classic favourites like Beef Chow Mein to spicy Dan Dan Noodles, there is something for everyone’s taste. In addition to noodles, Full House also offers an excellent selection of Dim Sum, such as steamed dumplings and BBQ pork buns. You can enjoy the fabulous dishes in the restaurant upstairs and then go downstairs to the supermarket to find ingredients to create your own at home.
Golden Dragon
Golden Dragon is a highly-respected Chinese restaurant in Lancaster. It has been situated in the centre of Lancaster for over 20 years. It has won high praise from numerous diners because of its authentic Chinese cuisine, elegant dining environment, and high-quality service. They offer high-quality Chinese cuisine with a large selection of vegetarian dishes as well as Cantonese and Peking styles, all freshly prepared. The chefs are well known for their excellent Chinese cuisine and are experts in choosing the colour, aroma, flavour, and taste.
Indian Restaurants in Lancaster
Sultan of Lancaster
Sultan of Lancaster Indian restaurant is set in an old Methodist church and kept the original features from the glorious ceiling, ornate pillars, and hand-crafted screens, all to be marvelled at. This Indian restaurant in Lancaster offers authentic home-style cooking using only natural spices and ingredients that ensure culinary satisfaction. Treat yourself to something new with Sultan of Lancaster’s special dishes, such as a super spicy salmon masala balanced with fragrant herbs and bright citrus, or tuck into the Sultan Mix for a carnivorous carousel of succulent lamb chops, seekh kebab, chicken tikka and tandoori.
Babar Elephant
The Babar Elephant has become an instant success as an Indian restaurant in Lancaster. Situated in a landmark building dating back to 1686, formerly the Lancastrian Hotel, the Babar Elephant has been refurbished to reflect the exquisite Indian cuisine. The menu includes many Indian dishes with a Lancashire twist, from delectable starters to mouthwatering meat and vegetarian options. The team of chefs are highly trained with a vast knowledge of authentic cooking.
Bombay Balti
No gimmicks, just good food at great prices, friendly atmosphere, fully licensed Indian & Bangladeshi restaurant and takeaway. Bombay Balti‘s menu includes various traditional Indian dishes such as crispy samosas, fragrant curries, and a variety of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to meet the tastes and needs of different customers. It is one of the longest established Indian restaurants in Lancaster with staff who are always willing to help and are very accomodating.
Other Good Restaurants in Lancaster
Quite Simply French
This French restaurant in Lancaster is a foodie’s destination, where refined tastes visit for the flavour-intense cooking – and return for the service they’ve enjoyed, or stay in one of the unique boutique bedrooms. Their dishes include various traditional French delicacies such as frog legs, snails, fresh oysters, and various steaks. The menu changes every day and with the seasons, and every plate is cooked to order. In addition, Quite Simply French restaurant in Lancaster is the city’s only Five Star Hotel as rated by both The AA & Visit England.
Go Burrito
Goburito is a popular Mexican-style restaurant in Lancaster, owned and operated by two locals who hope to try something different in their beloved city. Goburito’s business scope includes breakfast, lunch, late-night meals, takeout, booking, packaging, and delivery services. The restaurant offers a variety of Mexican cuisine, including homemade spicy sauces, rich nachos, and delicious burritos. All food is freshly prepared using the highest quality ingredients, aiming to achieve their persistent pursuit of taste.
Nami Sushi
Lancaster’s one and only sushi bar. Nami Sushi is a Japanese cuisine restaurant located in the centre of Lancaster, featuring authentic Japanese flavours and fresh local ingredients. The restaurant offers a variety of sushi, sashimi, tempura, curry rice and other delicacies. They also offer a variety of set-meal options, including vegetarian and vegan options. Nami Sushi’s team is composed of a group of sushi enthusiasts whose mission is to spread their love for Japanese cuisine to every person in Lancaster.
Conclusion of Lancaster Restaurants
After exploring the 20 Lancaster restaurants above, are you ready to start a culinary journey in this city? Lancaster is not only a destination for heritage seekers but also a haven for food lovers. The diverse culinary landscape that ranges from traditional British fare to international cuisine caters to every taste and budget. So, when you find yourself in this charming city, let your taste buds guide you on an adventure.
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FAQs about Lancaster Restaurants
Are there any dog-friendly restaurants in Lancaster, UK?
Certainly yes! There are many Lancaster restaurants that welcome dogs. Some recommended dog-friendly restaurants include The Three Mariners, The Quarterhouse, Quite Simply French, The Stork Hotel, and more. When choosing places to eat in Lancaster, please remember to call in advance to confirm their pet policy to ensure that you and your pet can enjoy a pleasant dining experience.
How to find delicious restaurants in Lancaster?
To find delicious restaurants in Lancaster, you can try the following methods:
- Use online platforms such as TripAdvisor, Google Maps, and OpenTable, which provide restaurant ratings, user reviews, and menu information.
- Refer to local guidelines: Lancaster’s tourism bureau or local newspapers may publish restaurant guides introducing popular restaurants and speciality cuisine in the area.
- Ask local residents to learn about their favourite Lancaster restaurants and must-try cuisine.
What is the price level of Lancaster restaurants?
The price level of Lancaster restaurants varies depending on the type of restaurant, location, and quality of meals. Generally speaking, ordinary British restaurants or fast-food restaurants have more affordable prices, while high-end restaurants or speciality restaurants may have higher prices.
