Sample Hereford’s Foodie Scene
Serving up gourmet adventures by the plateful, savour our recommendations for the city’s best places to eat
For a small city, there’s a whole lot of foodie action in Hereford. There’s a fresh generation of chefs on the scene, committed to local provenance, gorgeous design and, of course, fabulous food.
The Bookshop
This modern British restaurant serves a daily brunch, a steak-led evening menu and an award-winning Sunday lunch, feted by The Observer Food Awards. The team are masters in the arts of fermenting, pickling and foraging and focused on ethical eating. Drop in for cake and a locally-roasted coffee or wind down with a cocktail.
Cotto
For fresh Italian flavours, head to this stylish, family-run favourite. Sip a cocktail aperitif in the pretty garden in the summer or watch their chefs in action at the open-kitchen bar. With a touch of Neopolitan flamboyance, Cotto offers authentic Italian food with a modern twist.
Green Dragon
An iconic building in the heart of the city, the Green Dragon is one of the oldest hotels in Britain. Recently refurbished, its ground floor is a fantastic showcase of local, sustainable and seasonal food and drink, from its panelled brasserie The Hereford to the sumptuous Offa Bar. Catch up over coffee in the Garrick Lounge or try the new alfresco dining space.
Déjà Vu
New to the scene, Deja Vu has quickly established a reputation for serving eclectic cocktail creations, worthy of every Instagram feed. There are non-alcoholic options too, including the Superstar Wannabe, poured from a bubbling teapot. To accompany, try the equally delicious small plates menu.
No.9 The Balcony
Hidden away in the city centre, No.9 is a superb brunch/cafe spot by day and a small plate restaurant in the evening. With fresh deliveries from St Ives, seafood is a speciality - don’t miss the bestselling lobster rolls. And as the name suggests, there’s a balcony (even better, it’s heated!).
Sensory & Rye
It’s all about the senses at this friendly eaterie, from cool interior design and creative flavours to beautifully presented dishes and the best tunes. The brunch menu comes highly recommended and we love the sunny terrace which is hidden away at the back. Plenty of choices for vegan and gluten-free diets.
The Beefy Boys
When we say ‘award-winning burgers’, we mean winners of the best burger title at the World Food Championships! A buzzy place to meet up with friends and family, the PBJ boy (with chipotle peanut butter and bacon jam) and the Blue Boy (with blue cheese mayo) are very popular. With great sides and veggie options to boot.
Ponte Vecchio
Beautifully situated between the Old Bridge and the Cathedral, Ponte Vecchio is a charming trattoria. The husband and wife team recreates the passion of the Italian family table. Meanwhile, the menu features traditional dishes alongside modern plates and the most delicious homemade gelato.
En Korean BBQ
Making an entrance onto Hereford’s food scene for summer 2021, en BBQ fuses Korean and Japanese flavours, from sushi rolls to bibimbap. Korean barbecue is a unique dining experience - just grill, season, dip and go! Meanwhile, the Asian-inspired cocktails are a taste sensation.
Bastion Street Feast
This regular event brings together the best street food traders in one place. Fun for families in the daytime, and a popular spot for group get-togethers and date nights in the evening. Keep an eye out for special events, from comedy night to Chase distillery tastings.
Burger Shop
This place does what it says on the tin: brilliant burgers from the team behind The Bookshop. Everything is made from scratch, the beef is the finest grass-fed, and the buns are organic and vegan. The Buttermilk Chicken and Vegan Arches are tasty options too. Eat inside or outdoor in the cool Yard space.
La Madeleine
Church Street is the heart of the city’s independent quarter and tucked in amongst the individual boutiques is French-inspired, La Madeleine. Local seasonal produce inspires the regularly changing menu, which offers all-day dining. Cosy up in the intimate dining room or relax in the secluded garden.
