It was inevitable that in my quest to showcase the very best spots in Bristol I would soon turn my attention to North St favourite and Bedminster gem, The Old Bookshop. If you’re one of the lovely people who is working their way through my humble little list of my favourite places in Bristol then this really is a must visit – put it at the top of your list!
This little Bemmie boozer has evolved dramatically over the years since it opened in 2011, going from a teeny tiny bar and kitchen and expanding next door into an amazing cocktail bar, while establishing itself as one of Bristol’s top live music venues. Ain’t no mean feat. The list of gigs is impressive, the cocktails are delicious (plus they’ve just started infusing their own spirits), and the food never, EVER disappoints.
Last Sunday, myself and other Blog Club lovelies Hayley, Sophie and Lyzi popped down for one of their now-legendary roasts. We each sampled a different meat offering (I opted for beef) and us greedy gals just about managed to fit it all in, with a little room for pud. They do a pretty tidy offer of two courses for £14.95, and considering the quality of the food and how stuffed I was, I’d say it is an excellent deal.
With our bellies comfortably full of chocolate mousse we decided to check out their new(ish) space out the back, which is every bit as quirky and amazing as the interior. I really wish I’d got some more pictures of the inside, but that will just have to be a nice surprise for when you visit
I did get a little snap happy in the amazing garden, however. Myself and Sophie sat in our amazing boat thrones and warmed ourselves up by the burner, and had a little chat with the owner, Ben. He informed us that everything in the bar had been constructed by him and his dad, which is mighty impressive. Even the old wood burner used to be his when he lived on a boat! I love how every time I pop in here Ben and his mum (hi Kath!) stop to have a chat with me, and the rest of the lovely staff are just as friendly too.
As well as their impressive Sunday roasts, The Old Bookshop have got a number of guest chefs taking over the kitchen in the coming months. For more info, take a look at their (and don’t forget to , will ya).