11 Best Restaurants in Stone, Staffordshire: From Low-Key to Upmarket

LOOKING FOR THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN STONE?

The sleepy market town of Stone in Staffordshire might not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of culinary hotspots, and despite being a tiny countryside village, it punches well above its weight when it comes to top-notch dining experiences!

Since we live just 15 minutes away in the south of Stoke, we’ve been back and forth to Stone on a mission to sample the local foods and discover the town’s finest eateries.

If we were to pick our top 3 right now, they would be:

★ Little Seeds (cosy and welcoming vibes, amazing brunch)
★ Pasta Di Piazza (authentic Italian)
★ Aston Marina (waterside tranquility with stunning views)

This is a curated list of our favourite places to eat in Stone, Staffordshire, the best of the best when it comes to traditional English as well as modern international cuisine (plus a really amazing Thai spot that always has a queue out the door).

Let’s dive in and explore the finest restaurants Stone has to offer, in no particular order:

11 Best Restaurants in Stone Staffordshire (by a Local)

Our top 11 recommended restaurants in Stone, based on personal experiences, pricing, service, food quality, and rave reviews on TripAdvisor and Google.

Blame Frida (Mexican-Inspired & British)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: vibrant, Instagram-worthy cocktail bar & restaurant with a fiery, artistic spirit

Blame Frida brings a burst of vibrant energy and colour to Stone’s High Street. This is the place to go for a lively social gathering, where fabulous, Instagram-ready decor meets a menu that puts a bold, Mexican-inspired twist on British classics.

The venue is particularly famous for its Sunday roasts, which are anything but traditional. Imagine juicy, slow-cooked meats, crisp roast potatoes, and rich gravy, all infused with a fiery Latin-American flair. It’s a comforting yet exciting dining experience that has earned a reputation as a local favourite.

Pricing: ££-£££ / £15-£30
Tripadvisor Rating: ★3.4/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.3/5
Opening times: Thurs 5-10pm, Fri-Sat 12pm-1am, Sun 12-9pm, Mon-Wed closed

You may also like: 14 of the Best Pubs in Stoke

Little Seeds (British cuisine, bar)

*MICHELIN Guide: “Good Cooking” restaurant since 2023*

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Cosy and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm

Little Seeds should be at the top of your list for two reasons: firstly, the food is truly delightful with impressive presentation, and secondly, this place features in the Michelin Guide UK, meaning the top chefs that dish out Michelin stars have been eyeing Little Seeds with appreciation, though stopping short of awarding a star.

The signature brunch dish at this independent restaurant is the sliced egg and avocado toast, which is a masterpiece of fresh ingredients and flavour. Thick slices of sourdough bread topped with smashed avocado, perfectly poached eggs, and a drizzle of chili oil adding a delightful kick.

We rave over Little Seeds for its cosy vibes, lip-smackingly delicious and healthy fare, and
attentive service that will make you feel right at home.

Pricing: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.8/5
Opening times: Wednesday-Friday: 11:00-16:00, 17:00-21:00; Saturday-Sunday: 10:00-12:00, 12:00-16:00

✦ Related post: Historic Market Towns in Staffordshire

Aston Marina (International, British, grill)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Waterside tranquility and stunning countryside views

Along the peaceful waters of the Trent and Mersey Canal you’ll find Aston Marina, a true oasis that offers a unique dining experience like no other. With picturesque canalside setting and heated outdoor seating, you can watch barges floating by and admire the panoramic views of the majestic Staffordshire countryside while sipping cocktails.

▷ Top Tip: Aston Marina is the perfect stop to drop by for lunch or dinner after trekking through the Staffs countryside and along the Trent and Mersey Canal.

Also known as No.26 at Aston Marina, fresh seafood is what gives them their excellent reputation, the signature dish being the pan-seared seabass.

When it comes to pubs in Stone by canal side, Aston Marina goes the extra mile. We recommend it for the breathtaking waterside views, fresh and flavourful seafood, and tranquil vibes to wind down after an activity-loaded day.

Pricing: ££-£££ / £15-£30
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.1/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Monday-Sunday 10am-11pm

✨ Psst… fancy staying over on a Barge at Aston Marina? Make your trip truly memorable by staying over in one of Aston marina’s narrowboats! With plenty of walking trails, nearby Trentham Estate, making a weekend of Stone is worthwhile. Book your stay at Aston Marina HERE:

Stone House Hotel (International, British & Indian)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Serene country house escape with elegant traditional charm and beautiful gardens

Nestled in a tranquil setting just outside the town centre, the Stone House Hotel offers a delightful dining experience within a tastefully restored former country house. The hotel boasts beautiful gardens and an elegant interior with original features like cosy fireplaces, creating a wonderfully relaxing atmosphere .

A key highlight is the superb variety of its on-site dining options. You can enjoy candlelit dinners and brilliant Sunday lunches in the Garden Restaurant, or savor authentic, well-spiced curries at the highly-praised Saffron Indian restaurant right within the hotel.

It’s a perfect spot for a special occasion or a refined meal after a day exploring the Staffordshire countryside.

Pricing: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★3.8/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.3/5
Opening times: 8am-9pm daily

Stone House Hotel also does a superb afternoon tea experience, in fact, it’s one of the best places you can go for afternoon tea in Staffordshire.

The Wayfarer (International, British gastropub)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Rustic and cosy, with a warm and welcoming ambience

Situated on the edge of Stone beside the river, The Wayfarer is a true gem that embodies the essence of a traditional British pub. It’s a great spot for a hearty meal with the family or a pint of locally brewed ale.

Their signature offering is the slow-cooked lamb shank, which falls off the bone and is served with creamy mashed potatoes and a rich gravy that will have you licking your plate clean.

We think it’s easily one of the best pubs in Stone, Staffordshire, and highly recommend this place for its warm hospitality, delicious pub fare, and charming outdoor beer garden that offers a glimpse of the picturesque Staffordshire countryside.

Pricing: ££-£££ / £20-£30
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.3/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Monday-Thursday 12pm-11pm, Friday-Saturday 12pm-11:30pm, Sunday 12pm-10:30pm

Staying in the area? Stone is close to the Peak District, and I recommend booking a lodge with a hot tub overlooking the stunning countryside for a truly memorable experience.

The Mill at Stone (Mediterranean, European, Spanish)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Contemporary and stylish, with a touch of industrial chic

Located in a restored 19th-century mill, The Mill is a true gem that retains the site’s original features whilst oozing contemporary sophistication.

The first thing that strikes you on arrival is the ambient and picturesque setting. The views of the River Trent from the terrace are quite something, and the secluded mezzanine space with large social tables looks truly impressive.

The signature dish here is the slow-roasted beef short rib, perfectly cooked and served with a rich red wine jus, creamy mashed potatoes, and roasted vegetables.

Though this spot is a little above our budget, we’d definitely recommend it to celebrate an occasion wilst sipping cocktails, for its innovative and delicious cuisine and stylish ambience.

Pricing: ££-£££ / £19-£65
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.1/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: daily 11am-3pm and 6-11pm

✪ Why not book a Stay at The Mill? – with rave reviews and a Fabulous 8.6 rating, The Mill Hotel doesn’t only serve some of the best local food in Stone, it’s one of the most unique places to stay in Staffordshire. Book your stay HERE:

→ Popular post: Top Free Activities and Attractions in the West Midlands

Pasta Di Piazza (Italian, Mediterranean)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Authentic Italian flair and a lively atmosphere

If you’re on the hunt for an authentic Italian in Stone, look no further than Pasta Di Piazza on Stone’s historic high street. Once you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the tantalising aroma of garlic, tomatoes, and freshly baked bread. 

Pasta Di Piazza is a fantastic spot for a romantic dinner or a lively evening with friends. We listed this spot as one of our top 3 faves as the grub was surprisingly good, and we’re big on Italian food.

Their signature dish is the spaghetti alle vongole, which features fresh clams sautéed in garlic, white wine, and a touch of chili, tossed with perfectly al dente spaghetti.

We can vouch for this place for its belly-filling, authentic Italian flavours, handmade pasta, and lively, vibrant atmosphere.

Pricing: ££-£££ / £15-£40
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.0/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.4/5
Opening times: Monday-Saturday 12-3pm and 5-10pm, Sunday 12-9pm

More Staffordshire food reviews:
7 Best Places to Eat in Cheadle
15 Best Restaurants in Stoke-on-Trent
Top 11 Spots to Dine at in Leek
10 Incredible Eateries in Newcastle-under-Lyme
11 Must-Visit Restaurants in Stafford

Thai Lanna (Thai cuisine)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Authentic Thai flavours and a touch of exotic flair

Now if you’re after something different from the traditional pub fare above, there’s several international options and for authentic Thai cuisine, Thai Lanna is the place to be.

Thai Lanna is a great spot for a casual dinner or a night out with friends who appreciate bold and flavourful cuisine. The Massaman curry is not to be missed, a rich and creamy coconut-based curry that features tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and peanuts, infused with the warmth of spices and a hint of sweetness.

Massaman is also Billy’s favourite Thai dish so we were really excited and it did not disappoint.

We seriously recommend this place for its authentic Thai flavours, and having travelled around Thailand ourselves, we can definitely vouch for Thai Lanna!

We visited on Saturday evening, as a group of five, to celebrate two birthdays – an 18th and an 89th, and we all really enjoyed it. We tried various options from the set menus and were really impressed with both the range of dishes and their quality. Good service, very competitive prices.

andrew d, tripadvisor review

Pricing: ££-£££ / £13-£38
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.0/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday 6-11pm, and 5-10pm, Friday-Saturday 12-2:30pm and 6-11pm, (closed Sundays and Mondays)

✦ You may also like: Leek’s Best Pubs & Country Inns: An Insider Guide

Smoke & Rye (American Steakhouse, BBQ)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Rustic and cosy, with a touch of Southern US charm

I couldn’t curate this list without including a proper BBQ spot, and the American Southern-style Smoke & Rye totally exceeded our expectations across the board.

The signature dish is the slow-smoked beef brisket, served with a yummy homemade barbecue sauce, creamy coleslaw, and crispy fries.

Smoke & Rye is the best Stone restaurant for BBQ cuisine. You’ll find mouthwatering juicy steaks rival that of the greatest pub grills around, but with the US-style BBQ flavours offering something a little different, and we can’t get enough of it.

Pricing: ££-£££ / £8-£25
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.6/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Thursday-Sunday 12pm-12am (closed Monday-Wednesday)

★ Insider Tip: Don’t miss the monthly farmers’ market held in the town centre – it’s the perfect place to stock up on local produce, artisanal cheeses, and mouth-watering baked goods.

Read more: Smokin’ Hot Buffet and Grill (Review): is this the best restaurant in Coventry?

The Spotgate Inn (classic English country pub fare)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Traditional British pub charm and a warm, welcoming atmosphere

One of the finest country pubs near Stone, The Spotgate Inn is actually on a country road just outside of town, and what makes this former coaching inn a real gem is that it delivers hearty meals at affordable prices, which is a rarity these days.

Their signature dish is the beer-battered fish and chips, a country classic which features fresh cod fillets carefully cooked in a crispy, golden batter and served with thick-cut chips, mushy peas, and a tangy tartar sauce.

We recommend this spot for quality grub at an affordable range, perfect for families and those who want a memorable dining experience without necessarily having to push the boat out.

Pricing: ££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.2/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.3/5
Opening times: Tuesday-Thursday 12-9pm, Friday-Saturday 12-11pm, Sunday 12-6pm (closed Mondays)

→ Read more: Birmingham in Summer: 23 Family-Friendly Things to Do

The Butchers Block (steakhouse, pub grill)

Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Rustic and contemporary, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients

One of the top places to eat lunch in Stone is the Butchers Block, a traditional town pub that celebrates the art of exceptional meat and locally sourced ingredients. Expect rustic and contemporary decor, good company, warm lighting, and belly-filling, meaty meals.

The Butchers Blocks’ signature dish is the massive bone-in ribeye steak that is exceptionally grilled and served with a side of crispy triple-cooked chips, roasted garlic butter, and a creamy peppercorn sauce that will have you savouring every bite.

Another reason why we recommend the Butchers Block is that it’s quite affordable given the large portions.

Pricing: £-££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.1/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.3/5
Opening times: Wednesday-Friday 11am-11:30pm, Saturday 10am-11:30pm, Sunday 10am-9:30pm (closed Mondays and Tuesdays)

Map of Best Eateries in Stone

Here is an interactive map of the top dining locations so you can zoom in and click on them for more details and see the distances.

More Top Recommendations:

Conclusion: Best Restaurants in Stone

And so I leave you with the best spots to eat in Stone, Staffordshire:

• Blame Frida (Mexican-Inspired & British)
• The Wayfarer (traditional English pub and grill style)
• Little Seeds (cosy, warm and welcoming vibes)
• Stone House Hotel (International, British & Indian)
• Aston Marina / No. 26 (waterside tranquility and stunning views)
• Pasta Di Piazza (authentic Italian flair)
• The Mill at Stone (contemporary and stylish)
• Thai Lanna (Best authentic Thai spot in town)
• Smoke & Rye (rustic and cosy style)
• The Spotgate Inn (charming, countryside pub style)
• The Butchers Block (rustic and contemporary style)

Bear in mind that it’s always a good idea to check the reviews and ratings online for the most up-to-date information on Stone eateries, and booking reservations may be a good idea during holidays!

Read more

• 

  15 Best Restaurants in Ironbridge, Shropshire (2026 Edition)

• 

  Shifnal: Discover Shropshire’s Sleepy Market Town (Complete Guide)

• 

  26+ Best Things to Do in Stoke-On-Trent in Summer: [by a local]