Best Restaurants in Swindon – Top 10 Places to Eat

Swindon has a diverse restaurant scene, with everything from traditional Italian trattorias and authentic Turkish grills to American smokehouses, Spanish tapas bars and Brazilian steakhouses

Whether planning a romantic dinner, a family celebration, a casual lunch or an evening out with friends, there are plenty of excellent restaurants in Swindon to explore.

Old Town is particularly popular for independent restaurants, while the town centre and surrounding neighbourhoods offer international cuisines and more relaxed dining experiences.

This guide explores the 10 best restaurants in Swindon, highlighting their food, atmosphere, average prices, customer ratings, opening hours and contact details to help diners choose somewhere suitable.

Restaurant ratings and indicative prices are based on the supplied listings. Opening hours have been checked against restaurant websites or available business listings where possible, but can change, particularly on bank holidays.

What Makes Swindon a Great Destination for Food Lovers?

Swindon has developed a diverse dining scene, offering everything from traditional British favourites to authentic international cuisines.

Old Town is particularly popular among food lovers, with Wood Street, Victoria Road and Devizes Road providing a selection of independent restaurants, stylish dining spaces and welcoming eateries.

One of Swindon’s main attractions is the variety of cuisines available within a relatively small area. Diners can enjoy freshly prepared Italian pasta, Spanish tapas, Turkish grilled meats, Brazilian barbecue and traditional Indian curries.

The town also caters to different budgets. Visitors can find affordable casual dining options alongside more sophisticated restaurants suitable for romantic evenings and special celebrations.

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, children’s menus and group dining facilities, making Swindon an attractive destination for couples, families and friends.

What Types of Restaurants Can You Find in Swindon?

Swindon offers a broad selection of restaurants catering to different tastes, dietary preferences and dining occasions.

Italian restaurants are particularly well represented, with establishments serving wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, seafood and traditional Mediterranean dishes.

However, the town’s restaurant scene extends well beyond Italian cuisine.

Popular dining options include:

• Italian restaurants: Traditional pizzas, homemade pasta, risotto and Mediterranean specialities.
• Turkish restaurants: Charcoal-grilled kebabs, mixed grills, meze and traditional Turkish dishes.
• Spanish restaurants: Tapas, seafood dishes and sharing plates suitable for social dining.
• Brazilian steakhouses: All-you-can-eat grilled meats served in the traditional churrascaria style.
• American smokehouses: Slow-cooked barbecue ribs, brisket, burgers and Southern-inspired comfort food.
• Indian restaurants: Traditional curries, tandoori dishes, vegetarian specialities and regional Indian flavours.
• Steakhouses: Premium grilled meats, sizzling steaks and contemporary dining experiences.

Restaurants in Old Town are particularly convenient for evening meals, while venues in the surrounding neighbourhoods offer family-friendly settings and more relaxed dining environments.

With this variety, diners can choose restaurants based on their preferred cuisine, budget and occasion.

Top 10 Best Restaurants in Swindon

1. Grano Lab – Best for Authentic Italian Cuisine

Located on Victoria Road, Grano Lab brings the flavours of traditional Italian cooking to Swindon, with an emphasis on freshly prepared pasta, Neapolitan-style pizzas and carefully selected ingredients.

The restaurant offers a more contemporary interpretation of Italian dining while maintaining the comforting dishes that make the cuisine so popular.

Its menu includes handmade pasta, pizza Napoletana, antipasti and substantial Italian main courses, providing plenty of choice for guests who appreciate authentic Mediterranean flavours.

Popular options include Sicilian arancine, rosemary focaccia, freshly prepared pasta and traditional pizza combinations. The menu also features seafood dishes and Italian specialities such as osso buco.

The emphasis on Italian ingredients and traditional preparation techniques makes Grano Lab particularly appealing to diners looking for something beyond a conventional pizza restaurant.

Its Victoria Road location is convenient for couples, small groups and visitors exploring Swindon’s Old Town.

With a strong customer rating and a relatively intimate dining experience, Grano Lab is particularly suitable for romantic meals, weekend dinners and special occasions.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793224344
• Website: granolab.co.uk
• Average price: £20–£40 per person
• Best for: Fresh pasta, Neapolitan pizza, date nights and authentic Italian cuisine 

2. Hickory’s Smokehouse Swindon – Best for American Barbecue and Family Dining

Situated on Middleleaze Drive, Hickory’s Smokehouse brings the flavours and atmosphere of the American Deep South to Swindon.

The restaurant specialises in slow-smoked meats, hearty barbecue dishes and Southern-inspired comfort food, making it a popular choice for guests looking for generous portions and bold flavours.

Its menu focuses on American smokehouse favourites, including barbecue ribs, beef brisket, burgers, chicken and a selection of substantial sides.

The emphasis on low-and-slow barbecue cooking creates a different dining experience from the conventional grills and casual restaurants found across the town.

Hickory’s also places considerable importance on the dining atmosphere. Its American-inspired interior, relaxed seating arrangements and welcoming hospitality make it particularly suitable for family outings and larger groups.

The restaurant offers children’s menu options, cocktails and outdoor seating, giving visitors flexibility when planning lunch, dinner or a weekend meal.

Its location away from Swindon’s busiest central streets is another advantage for diners looking for a more spacious setting.

For families, barbecue enthusiasts and groups celebrating informal occasions, Hickory’s Smokehouse provides a lively alternative to traditional British pub dining.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793209809
• Website: hickorys.co.uk
• Average price: £20–£40 per person
• Best for: Smoked ribs, brisket, family meals, burgers and American barbecue 

3. Lux Turkish Restaurant – Best for Turkish Grills and Special Occasions

Located on Godwin Court in Swindon’s Old Town, Lux Turkish Restaurant offers a refined dining experience inspired by the rich culinary traditions of Turkey.

The restaurant combines traditional Anatolian flavours with contemporary presentation, creating an attractive destination for couples, families and diners celebrating special occasions.

Its menu concentrates on charcoal-grilled meats, freshly prepared meze, kebabs and traditional Turkish specialities.

Popular dishes include chicken shish, lamb shish, Adana kofte, mixed grills and slow-cooked lamb dishes such as kleftiko.

Guests can also choose from a selection of cold and hot meze, including hummus, falafel, grilled halloumi, calamari and Turkish-style pastries.

The restaurant’s interior features warm lighting and elegant furnishings, helping create a comfortable setting for longer evening meals.

Vegetarian dishes are also available, including vegetable kebabs, stuffed vine leaves and aubergine-based specialities.

With its combination of charcoal cooking, polished presentation and welcoming hospitality, Lux Turkish Restaurant is particularly suitable for birthdays, anniversary dinners and romantic evenings.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793575565
• Website: luxswindon.com
• Average price: £30–40 per person
• Best for: Turkish mixed grills, charcoal kebabs, romantic dinners and celebrations 

4. Los Gatos – Best for Spanish Tapas and Sharing Plates

Situated on Devizes Road in Swindon’s Old Town, Los Gatos has become a well-established destination for authentic Spanish tapas and relaxed social dining.

Operating since 2006, the restaurant specialises in small plates inspired by traditional Spanish cooking, encouraging guests to share different dishes rather than ordering conventional starters and main courses.

Its menu includes a varied selection of meat, seafood, vegetables, salads and Spanish-inspired snacks, with dishes prepared on the premises.

The tapas format makes Los Gatos particularly appealing to couples and groups who enjoy sampling several flavours during the same meal.

Instead of concentrating on a single main course, visitors can build their own selection of dishes according to their appetite and preferences.

Vegetarian and vegan options provide additional flexibility, while the welcoming dining room and bar atmosphere make it suitable for informal celebrations and evenings with friends.

The restaurant’s position on Devizes Road also makes it convenient for visitors exploring Old Town’s independent shops, pubs and entertainment venues.

For anyone searching for a sociable restaurant where food is designed to be shared, Los Gatos offers one of Swindon’s most distinctive dining experiences.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793488450
• Website: losgatos.co.uk
• Average price: £20–£50 per person
• Best for: Spanish tapas, sharing plates, date nights and group dining 

5. Rios Brazil – Best for Brazilian Steakhouse Dining

Located on Bridge Street in the centre of Swindon, Rios Brazil offers a traditional Brazilian churrascaria experience built around freshly grilled meats and generous buffet dining.

The restaurant specialises in rodízio, a Brazilian dining style in which different cuts of meat are brought directly to guests’ tables throughout their meal.

Rather than selecting a single main course, diners can enjoy a succession of freshly grilled meats, including beef, chicken, pork and lamb.

The experience begins with access to a buffet featuring more than 25 salads, hot dishes, sauces and accompaniments.

Guests control the pace of their meal using a coloured indicator at the table. Turning it green signals that they would like more meat, while red indicates that they want to pause service.

This interactive approach creates a lively dining experience, particularly for birthdays, group celebrations and family gatherings.

The restaurant also serves Brazilian cocktails and offers alternative buffet options for guests who prefer not to order the full meat selection.

Its central location makes Rios Brazil convenient for visitors planning an evening meal before exploring Swindon’s nightlife.

For diners who enjoy grilled meats, generous portions and a distinctive restaurant experience, Rios Brazil is one of the town’s strongest choices.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793514527
• Website: riosbrazilswindon.co.uk
• Rodízio price: £32.50–£34.50 per adult, depending on the day
• Best for: Brazilian barbecue, all-you-can-eat dining, meat lovers and birthday celebrations 

6. Hungry n Thirsty – Best for Affordable Indian Cuisine

Located on Cricklade Road in Gorse Hill, Hungry n Thirsty combines authentic Indian cooking with a relaxed and welcoming dining environment.

The restaurant concentrates on traditional Indian flavours, offering an extensive selection of starters, curries, vegetarian dishes and chef’s specialities.

Its menu features more than 100 dishes, giving diners plenty of opportunities to explore different regional cooking styles and spice combinations.

The restaurant is particularly appealing to guests who enjoy richly flavoured curries and comforting Indian meals without the higher prices associated with premium dining establishments.

Alongside its main restaurant, Hungry n Thirsty provides a garden lounge with heated outdoor seating, creating an additional space for informal gatherings.

The venue also promotes occasional entertainment, making it an attractive option for groups looking to combine food with a sociable evening.

Its Friday and Saturday lunchtime service offers further flexibility, while Sunday breakfast and brunch options provide something different from the usual evening curry experience.

With an indicative price of £10–£20 per person, Hungry n Thirsty is among the more affordable restaurants in this selection.

It is particularly suitable for casual meals, family outings and groups wanting a combination of Indian cuisine and a lively atmosphere.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +447785450658
• Website: hungrynthirsty.co.uk
• Average price: £10–£20 per person
• Best for: Indian curries, affordable dining, vegetarian dishes and casual group meals

7. Mario’s (Swindon) – Best for Traditional Italian Dining in Old Town

Situated on Wood Street in Swindon’s Old Town, Mario’s is one of the area’s longest-established Italian restaurants, with a history dating back to 1972.

The restaurant is known for its traditional cellar setting, where rustic interiors and an intimate atmosphere create a distinctive dining experience.

Mario’s concentrates on classic Italian and Sicilian cooking, serving freshly prepared pasta, pizzas, seafood dishes and traditional meat-based specialities.

Its menu includes familiar favourites such as spaghetti carbonara, Bolognese, lasagne and freshly baked pizzas, alongside more substantial dishes featuring beef, poultry and fish.

The restaurant also offers a selection of Italian desserts, making it appealing to guests who enjoy a complete traditional Italian meal.

One of Mario’s main attractions is its character. Rather than presenting a modern or minimalist dining space, the restaurant retains the warmth and charm associated with established Italian trattorias.

Its Wood Street location is particularly convenient for couples exploring Old Town or families planning a relaxed weekend lunch.

Vegetarian choices and children’s seating options make it suitable for different dining requirements, while its lunchtime and evening opening hours provide flexibility.

Mario’s is an excellent option for diners who value familiar Italian food, a welcoming atmosphere and a restaurant with longstanding local character.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793531556
• Website: mariosrestaurant.co.uk
• Average price: £20–30 per person
• Best for: Traditional Italian cuisine, romantic meals, family lunches and classic pasta dishes&nbsp

8. Kenzo 72 – Best for Steaks and Interactive Dining

Located on Wood Street in Swindon’s Old Town, Kenzo 72 combines steakhouse dining with Asian-inspired flavours and a contemporary restaurant atmosphere.

The restaurant offers a varied menu featuring sizzling steaks, grilled meats, sharing plates and Asian-fusion dishes, making it suitable for diners with different tastes.

One of its distinctive attractions is the interactive steak experience, where guests can cook their meat on heated lava stones according to their preferred finish.

This approach gives diners greater control over their meal and creates a more engaging experience than a conventional steakhouse.

Kenzo 72 also offers an unlimited steak and meat dining option, subject to the restaurant’s current menu conditions and time limits.

Alongside the steak selection, guests can explore dishes such as gyoza, ribs, Asian-inspired starters and a variety of accompaniments.

Its stylish setting makes it particularly appealing to couples, groups of friends and visitors celebrating birthdays or special occasions.

The restaurant also offers event and private-hire options, providing additional flexibility for organised gatherings.

Its location in Old Town places it close to other restaurants and evening entertainment venues, making it convenient for a complete night out.

For anyone looking for an interactive dining experience that combines grilled meats with Asian influences, Kenzo 72 offers something different from Swindon’s more traditional restaurants.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793250170
• Website: kenzo72.com
• Average price: £30–£40 per person
• Best for: Steak lovers, interactive lava-stone dining, group celebrations and Asian-fusion cuisine 

9. Fratello’s (Swindon) – Best for Wood-Fired Pizza and Family Meals

Situated on Victoria Road, Fratello’s is a well-established Italian restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas, traditional pasta dishes and relaxed family-friendly atmosphere.

The restaurant brings familiar Italian cooking to Swindon through a menu built around freshly prepared ingredients and comforting Mediterranean flavours.

Its pizzas are prepared using a traditional wood-burning oven, helping achieve the distinctive texture and flavour associated with authentic Italian pizza.

Beyond pizza, diners can choose from a range of classic dishes, including spaghetti carbonara, lasagne, antipasti, risotto and other Italian specialities.

The restaurant also offers fish dishes, salads and a selection of desserts, providing variety for guests who prefer something other than pizza or pasta.

Fratello’s features a multi-level dining arrangement, including a cellar area that can accommodate romantic dinners, family gatherings and larger groups.

Its welcoming environment and children’s menu make it particularly attractive to families looking for an Italian restaurant where younger diners are catered for.

The restaurant also offers takeaway and delivery services, providing a convenient alternative for customers who would rather enjoy their meal at home.

For couples, families and groups seeking traditional Italian food at reasonable prices, Fratello’s remains a strong choice in Swindon.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793574444
• Website: fratellos.co.uk
• Average price: £20–£30 per person
• Best for: Wood-fired pizza, family dinners, pasta, birthdays and casual Italian dining 

10. La Strada Restaurant – Best for Italian Dining in a Countryside Setting

Located in Broad Hinton, just outside Swindon, La Strada Restaurant offers traditional Italian cuisine in a peaceful village setting.

Unlike many restaurants concentrated around Swindon’s town centre and Old Town, La Strada provides a more relaxed countryside dining experience.

The restaurant specialises in Italian dishes, including freshly prepared pizzas, pasta, seafood and Mediterranean-inspired main courses.

Its menu draws on traditional Italian cooking, with options suitable for diners looking for either a casual meal or a more substantial evening dinner.

One of La Strada’s main attractions is its setting. The surrounding countryside creates a different atmosphere from the town’s busier dining destinations, making it particularly appealing to couples and families.

The restaurant offers indoor dining alongside outdoor seating, allowing visitors to enjoy the surroundings during warmer weather.

Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options are also available, providing flexibility for customers with different dietary requirements.

Its welcoming environment makes La Strada a suitable choice for birthdays, family celebrations, anniversary dinners and leisurely weekend lunches.

The Broad Hinton location is especially convenient for people living in the villages west of Swindon or visitors exploring the Wiltshire countryside.

For diners seeking authentic Italian food away from the town centre, La Strada combines traditional cuisine with a quieter dining setting.

Restaurant details

• Contact: +441793731510
• Website: lastradaswindon.com
• Average price: £20–£30 per person
• Best for: Countryside dining, Italian cuisine, romantic meals and family celebrations 

FAQs About Restaurants in Swindon

What are the best restaurants in Swindon?

Some of the best restaurants in Swindon include Grano Lab, Hickory’s Smokehouse, Lux Turkish Restaurant, Los Gatos, Rios Brazil and Mario’s, offering a variety of international cuisines.

Where can you find the best Italian restaurants in Swindon?

Grano Lab, Mario’s, Fratello’s and La Strada are popular Italian restaurants in Swindon, serving traditional pasta, pizzas, seafood and Mediterranean dishes.

Which restaurants in Swindon are best for romantic dinners?

Grano Lab, Lux Turkish Restaurant, Mario’s and La Strada are suitable for romantic dinners, offering intimate surroundings, welcoming service and distinctive dining atmospheres.

Are there affordable restaurants in Swindon?

Yes, Hungry n Thirsty offers Indian cuisine at approximately £10–£20 per person, while several Italian restaurants provide meals for around £20–£30 per person.

Which restaurants in Swindon are suitable for families?

Hickory’s Smokehouse, Fratello’s and Mario’s are family-friendly choices, offering relaxed dining environments, varied menus and options suitable for younger diners.

Where can you enjoy international cuisine in Swindon?

Swindon offers Turkish cuisine at Lux Turkish Restaurant, Spanish tapas at Los Gatos, Brazilian barbecue at Rios Brazil and American smokehouse dishes at Hickory’s.

Do restaurants in Swindon require advance reservations?

Not all restaurants require reservations, but booking ahead is advisable for popular venues such as Grano Lab, Mario’s and Rios Brazil, particularly on weekends and special occasions.