14 Top Restaurants in Stoke-on-Trent: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Eat
SEARCHING FOR THE BEST RESTAURANTS IN STOKE? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!
As a Potteries resident, I’ve made it my mission to track down every decent bit of grub across town. I’ve eaten my way through every corner of Stoke’s six towns – from Longton to Burslem, Hanley to Fenton – hunting out the spots that make this place special.
Over the last few years, I’ve watched this city transform from a place where a decent curry house was considered fine dining, into somewhere that’s properly exciting for food lovers.
If you’re just visiting and want my absolute must-try places, these three are guaranteed winners:
★ Lunar by Niall Keating (Modern British with an Asian twist – proper special occasion stuff)
★ Slamwich Club (Reinventing what a sandwich can be – and doing it brilliantly)
★ Sindu Mahal Sri Lankan (The finest Sri Lankan cuisine in Staffordshire)
What I love about Stoke’s culinary scene is how it reflects our city – unpretentious, multicultural, and full of surprises. You’ll find everything from proper Sri Lankan street food to fine dining, family-run Italians to the modern British carvery.
Let me take you through some of the restaurants near me that makes dining in Stoke special..
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Stoke-on-Trent Restaurants: My 15 Top Picks
My recommended 15 best places to eat in Stoke on Trent based on personal experience, produce quality, pricing, service, and reviews on TripAdvisor and Google.
1. Slamwich Club (British, American, bar)
Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Trendy, casual, buzzing
This place is what happens when creative minds go wild with sandwiches. Forget your boring cheese and ham – we’re talking next-level creations that’ll truly impress. The exposed brick walls, quirky artwork, and indie tunes create a proper cool atmosphere that makes you want to hang about all afternoon.
Their Brisk + Stout sandwich is legendary – gravy glazed beef brisket, beer onions, cheddar cheese & ale rarebit, and this ridiculous mustard mayo that’ll have you questioning everything you thought you knew about sandwiches.
The veggie options are just as creative – their ‘Buffalo Bill’ with crispy tofu might just convert the most dedicated meat-eater.
→ Top Tip: They’ve got a secret menu that changes monthly – just ask the staff what’s new. And if you’re going at weekend lunch, get there before 12:30 or after 2pm – the queue at peak times can be mental.
It’s perfect for first dates (casual enough to not be awkward), lunch with your mates, or solo dining at the bar while catching up on some work. The crowd’s usually a mix of creative types, students, and resident foodies.
Absolutely incredible food, the flavours in each slamwich are just perfect. Definitely got some left ofers for food this evening! The team were absolutely amazing & service was quick. Could not fault them in any way. Amazing!!!
shayna m, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.8/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.8/5
Opening times: Tue-Fri 12-10pm, Sat 11am-10pm (closed Sun-Mon)
2. La Bella Napoli (Authentic Italian)
Postcode: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Authentic, family-run, lively
This isn’t just another Italian restaurant – it’s like someone picked up a proper Neapolitan pizzeria and dropped it right in the middle of Stoke. The minute you walk in, you’re hit with the smell of that wood-fired oven and fresh basil.
→ Good to know: They make a limited number of their incredible tiramisu each day – if you want it, order it when you first sit down.
Their Diavola pizza is absolutely spot on – proper spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, and this tomato sauce that’s so good you’ll want to drink it.
Their pasta alla Genovese is the real showstopper – slow-cooked onion and beef sauce that you rarely see outside Naples.
Just passing through and found this place. Food was all lovely and the service great. There were 6 of us and most had pasta with meat or fish. I had the chicken with tarragon and veg. All were very happy. Staff were very friendly and the service was great.
brytoon, newcastle, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★3.7/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.2/5
Opening times: Mon-Fri 11am-3pm and 5-10pm, Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 11am-10pm
Related: A Guide to Staffordshire’s Historic Market Towns
3. London Road Ale House (Authentic Thai Cuisine)
Location: (Google Maps) | Vibe: East meets West in authentic culinary harmony
London Road Ale House has established itself as one of Stoke’s most unique dining and drinking destinations through its successful combination of authentic Thai cuisine and quality British ales, creating a genuine celebration of two culinary traditions beautifully complementing each other.
The Thai kitchen operates with cultural authenticity whilst the ale selection maintains traditional British pub standards that reflects genuine knowledge rather than adapted recipes.
Frequent Thai food nights have evolved into social events that draw customers from all over Stoke.
Tom yum soup was amazing, really rich and tasty, best I’ve tasted… ever. Generous portion as well. Would definitely recommend. Beer was well kept and a good choice, cannot fault at all.
matthew r, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.6 | Google Map Rating: ★4.7
Opening times: Tue 4-11pm, Thur-Sat 4-11pm, (CLOSED Sun, Mon and Wed)
✨ Exclusive Offer: Experience a true taste of Thailand without leaving Stoke! Get up to 38% off this immersive two-course à la carte meal with real ale or wine, allowing you to explore vibrant, authentic flavours in a unique ale house setting. Grab your offer HERE:
4. Little Dumpling King (Asian fusion)
Directions: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Casual, authentic, cosy
This tiny spot might look unassuming, but it’s pumping out some truly impressive dumplings. The kitchen’s open, so you can watch the dumpling masters at work, folding each one by hand.
Their prawn and chive dumplings are perfectly pleated and bursting with flavour. But don’t sleep on their Sichuan won tons in chilli oil – they’ve got this perfect balance of heat and numbing spice that’ll warm you right up on a cold Stoke day.
→ Useful Tip: They make a limited batch of their house-made chilli oil every week – you can buy a jar to take home, but you need to ask for it specifically as they keep it under the counter.
It’s great for a quick lunch, casual dinner with a mate or two (it’s too small for big groups), or solo dining at the counter watching the kitchen work their magic.
I have visited here several times when visiting family and it’s never disappointed . Great flavours and wine. It’s served when it’s ready and at its core are meat , fish and vegan dishes that are full of flavout and finishing touches which make you relish every mouthful
lesley d, southport, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.8/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.8/5
Opening times: Tue 5–9pm, Wed-Sat 12-3pm and 5-9pm (closed Sun-Mon)
5. Lunar by Niall Keating
**Michelin Guide restaurant**
Where to find it: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Sophisticated, special occasion, innovative
Set in the heart of Staffordshire, Lunar offers a unique dining experience at the home of one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most prestigious brands, Wedgwood. The name takes inspiration from ‘The Lunar Society’, founded in the 1700s by a collective of great thinkers of the time which included Josiah Wedgwood himself as a founding member.
→ Worthy Advice: Book for the first dinner sitting and request a window table – you’ll catch the sunset over the estate.
Although Chef Niall Keating left the restaurant in May 2024, Carl Riley has taken up the position as new head chef, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a distinguished culinary background. The restaurant continues to operate under new leadership.
Easily one of the finest restaurants outside of London (or in the UK for that matter) it’s perfect for special occasions, impressing out-of-town guests, or when you just fancy treating yourself to something special.
Wow what an experience. Decided to treat Hubbie first his birthday. He loves food and it’s always nice to find somewhere new and special.
Abi, rugeley, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.3/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Thur-Sat 12–11pm, Sun 12–6pm (closed Mon-Wed)
More Staffordshire restaurant guides:
9 Best Eateries to Indulge in Stone
Where to Eat in Cheadle Staffordshire: 7 Top Picks
My Top 11 Restaurants in Leek
10 Unmissable Restaurants in Newcastle-under-Lyme
11 Must-Try Places to Eat in Stafford
6. Jamaican Grillz (Authentic Jamaican cuisine)
Directions: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Relaxed, friendly, authentic
This place is pure Jamaica in the heart of Stoke. The jerk chicken recipe came straight from the owner’s grandma in Kingston, and you can taste the generations of know-how in every bite. The space is bright and cheerful, with reggae music playing and walls covered in vintage Jamaican album covers.
The jerk chicken is obviously a winner – spicy with that smoky flavour you only get from real pimento wood.
But the curry goat, my absolute fave, is the dark horse here – tender as anything and served with rice and peas that’ll transport you straight to the Caribbean.
→ Good to know: They make a wicked rum punch, but it’s not on the menu – you have to know to ask for it. Also, if you pop in on a Thursday, they often test out new recipes and give regular customers a taste.
It’s especially good for casual dinners with friends who can handle their spice, Caribbean cuisine lovers, or anyone looking to try something different from your standard Friday night takeaway. Also great for groups – the sharing platters are epic.
Price range: ££
Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Mon-Sat 12–9pm (closed Sunday)
✪ Good to know: time your visit for May when the town puts on the famous Stone Food & Drink Festival – a vibrant celebration of culinary delights that features cookery demos by top regional chefs, a Gourmet Marquee, live music, entertainment, and stars from The Great British Bakeoff. Book your tickets HERE:
→ Related post: Staffordshire Maps: Free Printable PDFs
7. Miso Japanese (Authentic Japanese cuisine)
Located: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Modern, calm, authentic
This is no ordinary sushi joint. The chef trained in Japan for years, and it shows. The space is minimal and calm – proper Japanese style – and you can watch the chefs work their magic at the counter.
I swear by their udon noodles – the broth simmers for 24 hours and comes out rich and complex. The gyoza are made fresh every morning, and if you’re lucky enough to catch their daily special of black cod, grab it.
→ Lesser-known Tip: Ask for the ‘chef’s choice’ sashimi – you’ll get whatever’s freshest that day, often including some unusual fish that aren’t on the regular menu.
Recommended for solo diners (the counter seats are perfect), date nights, or small groups who appreciate proper Japanese cooking. Superb for lunch if you work nearby – their bento boxes are brilliant value.
What a gem of a restaurant. Amazing, authentic food and friendly, attentive staff. Can’t believe we’ve not visited before. Will definitely return. Thank you.
rachael holf, stoke, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.4/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.7/5
Opening times: Tue-Thur 6-10pm, Fri-Sat 6–11pm (closed Sun-Mon)
Further reading: 8 Incredible Log Cabins with Hot Tubs in Staffordshire [Insider Guide]
8. Sindu Mahal Sri Lankan (Authentic Tamil / Sri Lankan)
Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: No-frills, authentic, friendly
This is one of our absolute favourite spots in the region (and in the UK we daresay), and once you’ve experienced this place you’ll agree – let alone the fact that it has a perfect 5/5 rating on Google.
Don’t let the basic decor fool you – this place serves some of the most authentic Sri Lankan cuisine you’ll find outside Colombo.
→ Local’s Tip: On weekends, they sometimes make lamprais (rice and curries wrapped in banana leaf) but you need to order it a day in advance.
Their lobster curry is the superstar – they dish it out in front of you on a spade, laid out on banana leaves, all rhythmic and theatrical. We cannot recommend the lobster enough if you’re willing to push the boat out.
Adventurous eaters, spice lovers, and anyone who appreciates proper home-style cooking will love this place. It’s also really good for vegetarians – their dahl and veggie curries are incredible.
Price range: ££-£££
Google Map Rating: ★5/5
Opening times: Tue-Sun, 2–10pm (closed Monday)
Read also: Our Review of Smokin’ Hot Buffet: is this Coventry’s best restaurant?
✪ Good to know: Stoke is a short drive from Alton Towers – the UK’s Number 1 theme park. Save 50% on your tickets when you book in advance HERE (£29 instead of £68!)
9. The Orange Tree Bar & Grill (Bar, European)
Address: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Casual, welcoming, family-friendly
What started as a typical local pub has turned into something pretty special. They’ve kept the cosy carvery feel with the log fire and exposed beams, but the fare’s gone upmarket. The chef used to work in fancy London spots and it shows.
Their steaks are phenomenal – they dry-age them on site and cook them over charcoal. And their Sunday roast is truly special – with massive yorkshire puddings, crispy roast potatoes (none of that soggy nonsense), and their cauliflower cheese with truffle is worth the trip alone.
It’s ideal for Sunday lunch with the family, date nights by the fire, or when you fancy a proper carvery atmosphere but with cooking that’s a cut above.
Stunning food and stunning service! Will 100% be back here again! we had the platter and it was amazing with a bunch of sides to compliment this. The cocktails are unreal!!
gabby l, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.3/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Mon-Thur 12–11pm, Fri 12 pm–12am, Sat 9am–12am, Sun 9am–11pm
Read: Best Time to Visit The West Midlands [An Insider Guide]
10. The Milehouse (Gastropub, steakhouse)
Located: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Traditional pub, friendly, relaxed
This place has really nailed that sweet spot between proper pub and quality carvery restaurant. The building’s got loads of history – it was an old coaching inn – and they’ve kept all the character while bringing the grub right up to date.
Their pies are something else – proper shortcrust pastry and fillings that change with the seasons. They do this brilliant thing where you can mix and match your sides – the beef dripping chips are non-negotiable though.
→ Top Tip: The quiz night portions are bigger than usual – time your visit for quiz night (Wednesday) and you’ll get extra chips.
Perfect for: Big group gatherings (they’re great with birthdays), casual date nights, or just a quality pub meal after work. Brilliant for sports fans too – they show the football but keep it in a separate bar so it doesn’t disturb diners.
What a lovely relaxed lunch made better by the brilliant service from Jamie Paul and Sophie ! Lovely food we will definitely be back Thankyou
melissa d, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.6/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.4/5
Opening times: All week from 12pm–12am
West Midlands Pub Guides:
Award-Winning Pubs in Stoke: Our Guide
Best Pubs & Country Inns in Leek: Insider Guide
11. Phoenix Vietnamese (Authentic Vietnamese)
Address: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Casual, authentic, busy
A delightful spot that feels like you’ve stepped into a Hanoi street kitchen. The family recipes have been passed down through generations, and you can taste the love in every bowl.
Billy had the beef pho and it was incredible – a rich broth that’s been bubbling away for hours, packed with fresh herbs, zesty lemon and hot chilli, and tender meat.
Their banh mi are spot on too – the bread’s crispy in all the right ways and the pickled veg gives it that perfect tang. But the sleeper hit is their ca kho to (caramelised fish in clay pot) – it’s not pretty, but my goodness it’s tasty.
→ Local’s Tip: If you see elderly Vietnamese people eating there (and you often will), order whatever they’re having.
This place makes for a perfect quick lunch, a casual dinner, or anyone who appreciates proper, uncompromising Vietnamese cuisine. Great for solo diners – the counter seats are perfect for slurping pho.
Definitely a hidden gem and would highly recommend. Delicious, authentic Vietnamese food and an absolute bargain with the whole meal for 2 costing less than £35 (and we were stuffed)!
emily a, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.8/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.8/5
Opening times: Mon-Thur 12–10:30pm, Fri-Sat 12-11pm, Sun 12-9:30pm
You may also like: Best Free Kid-Friendly Activities in The Midlands
12. Art of Siam (Authentic Thai cuisine)
Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Traditional, romantic, relaxed
We think Art of Siam is arguably the best Thai joint in the region. The decor’s beautiful – all traditional Thai carved wood and soft lighting – but not over the top. The owners haven’t watered down their recipes for British tastes.
Their Massaman curry is rich and complex – the kind that’s been simmering for hours. The pad thai hits that perfect balance of sweet, sour and salty that’s so hard to get right.
It’s excellent for date nights, catching up with friends, or when you want an incredible Thai feast. Great for vegetarians too – they take their meat-free dishes seriously and don’t just rely on tofu for everything.
Staff were friendly and welcoming. Great range on the menu Decor was unique and authentic. Food was unbelievably good. Fully recommend this restaurant.
andrew s, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.1/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Tue 5-10:30pm, Wed-Thur, 12-2:30pm and 5-10:30pm, Fri-Sat 12-2:30pm and 5-11pm, Sun 12-2:30pm and 5-10:30pm (closed Monday)
13. Portofino Italian (Italian)
Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Traditional Italian, romantic, warm
This place has been around since the 80s, and there’s a reason it’s survived while others have come and gone. It’s proper old-school Italian – Chianti bottles with candles in, the lot – but it works because it’s genuine, not tacky.
The seafood linguine is life – properly al dente pasta loaded with fresh seafood in a light wine sauce.
→ Heads Up: On Sundays, they often have a family lunch special that’s not advertised – authentic Italian style with multiple courses.
Their tiramisu is the real deal too – made fresh every morning to Nonna’s recipe. But if you’re really in the know, ask about their saltimbocca – it’s not on the menu but it’s amazing.
Perfect for: Family celebrations, romantic dinners, or when you want proper Italian grub without any modern twists. Brilliant for big groups too.
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.0/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.4/5
Opening times: Mon-Fri 12–2:30pm and 5:30–10pm, Sat 12–10pm, Sun 12–2:30pm and 5:30–9pm
Related: 26 Fun Family-Friendly Summer Activities in Stoke
14. Capello Lounge (Bar, American, Mediterranean)
Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Eclectic, relaxed, all-day dining
This absolute find mixes mismatched furniture and random art that actually works, and there’s always a good buzz about the place. They do grub all day, and they do it well.
Their brunch menu is unique – the huevos rancheros will sort out even the worst hangover, and their pancakes are legit American-style fluffy ones. Later in the day, their Buddha bowls are brilliant, and their Cuban sandwich is worth telling your mates about.
Ideal for: Working on your laptop during the day (good wifi and plenty of plugs), meeting mates for breakfast, or casual dinner dates. Great for dietary requirements – they’ve got separate gluten-free and vegan menus that are actually decent.
I had the lunch deal and the soup was so good I asked the chef for the recipe. Would recommend, will definitely be going back again.
teague d, tripadvisor review
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★4.2/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.5/5
Opening times: Sun-Thur 9am-10pm, Fri-Sat 9am-11pm
Read more: 42 Fascinating Facts about Stoke You Never Knew
15. The Moroccan Cafe (Authentic Moroccan cuisine)
Location: (Google Maps)
Vibe: Authentic, cosy, friendly
We were pleasantly surprised to stumble upon the Moroccan Cafe. Don’t let the simple name fool you – this place is a proper taste of Marrakech.
The owner used to cook in riads in Morocco and it shows. The space is cosy, with traditional lanterns casting pretty patterns on the walls and cushioned benches that make you want to settle in for the evening.
The tagines are an absolute delight – slow-cooked until the meat falls off the bone, with preserved lemons and olives from the owner’s family farm in Morocco.
Their mezze platter is perfect for sharing – the baba ganoush is smoky and silky, and they make their own merguez sausages. The mint tea ceremony at the end of your meal is proper theatrical.
**Update: The Moroccan Cafe has relocated to Longton Exchange, just down the road in Longton.
This is the spot for relaxed dinners with friends, date nights, or anyone who loves exploring authentic cuisines. Also great for groups who like sharing dishes – the mezze portions are generous.
Price range: ££-£££
Tripadvisor Rating: ★5/5 | Google Map Rating: ★4.9/5
Opening times: Tue-Sat 8:30am–6:30pm (closed Sun-Mon)
What food is Stoke-on-Trent famous for?
Stoke is renowned for the Staffordshire oatcake, a savory pancake often filled with bacon, cheese, or beans. Other local dishes include Lobby (a hearty stew) and Cheese and Ale Pie. The city also boasts a strong pub culture, with Titanic Brewery ales being a favourite. Read our guide on the best pubs in Stoke here.
What are some cheap places to eat in Stoke-on-Trent?
Affordable restaurant options in Stoke-on-Trent include The Slamwich Club (gourmet sandwiches), Hanley Brewers Fayre (pub meals from £5), and Weathervane (budget-friendly pub grub). For Indian cuisine, Sangam Balti offers great value.
What are some good places to eat in Hanley?
Our top picks include: Portofino (Italian classics), Jamaican Grillz (authentic Caribbean cuisine), and La Bella Napoli (family-run Italian). For a casual bite, The Slamwich Club is a popular choice, and for a true taste of Asian cuisine, we recommend Phoenix Vietnamese.
So to conclude my list of the Potteries’ finest eating spots:
- Lunar by Niall Keating (fine dining with a Stoke twist, seasonal Staffordshire ingredients)
- Slamwich Club (creative sandwiches, indie vibes)
- La Bella Napoli (proper Neapolitan pizza, wood-fired perfection)
- London Road Ale House (Authentic Thai cuisine and real ale fusion)
- Little Dumpling King (handmade dumplings, Sichuan classics)
- Jamaican Grillz (authentic Caribbean, grandma’s jerk recipe)
- Miso Japanese (proper ramen, fresh sushi)
- Sindu Mahal (Sri Lankan home cooking, kottu roti theatre)
- The Orange Tree (next-level carvery, that truffle cauliflower cheese)
- The Milehouse (pie heaven, regional ales, quiz night carvery feasts)
- Phoenix Vietnamese (authentic pho, banh mi perfection)
- Art of Siam (proper Thai spice, Bangkok street food vibes)
- Portofino (old-school Italian charm, seafood linguine dreams)
- Capello Lounge (all-day dining done right, hangover-curing brunches)
- Moroccan Cafe (tantalising tagines, proper mint tea ceremony)
Stoke’s culinary scene is properly coming into its own, with new places opening their doors all the time. Sometimes a great eatery will open up, but then (sadly) close down a few months later.
That’s why I keep this article updated regularly in case a true gem pops up, or one of the above no longer opens its doors.
