Restaurants in Southampton
Southampton is home to a vibrant and ever-evolving restaurant scene. Whether you’re craving international cuisine, looking to book a fine dining experience, or seeking family-friendly places to eat out, you’ll find restaurants in Southampton to suit every taste, occasion, and budget. From locally loved independents to well-known national chains, Southampton serves up a diverse dining offer, all within easy reach of the city’s top attractions, hotels and cruise terminals.
City Centre restaurants
At the heart of Southampton’s restaurant scene is the city centre — a hub of dining options that range from contemporary eateries to longstanding favourites. Westquay Shopping Centre is not just for retail therapy; it’s also home to popular restaurants like The Real Greek, Franco Manca, and Cosmo, offering a mix of casual dining and global flavours. Just a few steps away, Above Bar Street and the Cultural Quarter bring their own mix of restaurants and bistros, perfect for pre-theatre dining or a long lunch.
Waterfront and Ocean Village dining
If you’re looking for restaurants with a view, Southampton’s waterfront delivers. Ocean Village, the city’s modern marina, features stylish restaurants overlooking the harbour - ideal for relaxed lunches or sunset dinners. Harbour Hotel’s HarBAR on 6th combines panoramic views with locally sourced dishes, while Banana Wharf and Bacaro offer everything from seafood specials to small plates and cocktails.
Family-friendly restaurants
Dining out with children? Southampton has a great selection of family-friendly restaurants that cater to younger guests without compromising on quality or style. Many venues across the city centre, including Westquay and the High Street, offer children’s menus, activity packs, or relaxed atmospheres that make them ideal for family meals.
Fine dining and special occasion restaurants
For special occasions, romantic dinners, or elevated food experiences, Southampton has an excellent choice of fine dining establishments. From modern British tasting menus to premium steak and seafood, they combine high-quality ingredients with impeccable service and atmospheric surroundings.
Notable venues include The Jetty, Edo Asia, Porters Charcuterie, and Marco Pierre White Steakhouse. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, hosting a business dinner, or simply looking to indulge, Southampton’s fine dining options will not disappoint.
Vegan and vegetarian restaurants
Southampton’s food scene has evolved to meet the growing demand for plant-based and vegetarian-friendly dining. You’ll find dedicated vegan restaurants as well as mainstream venues with strong vegan and vegetarian menu options. These spots don’t just cater to dietary preferences — they focus on creating dishes that are colourful, inventive, and packed with flavour.
Restaurants such as Café Thrive, Padharo, and Késarum are popular local favourites with their menu being 100% plant-based. Many others now provide extensive vegan options, making it easy to find something tasty and inclusive across the city.
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