Eating out isn’t just about the food. It’s about the company, the ambience, the service… and the surroundings.
If pleasant settings are a priority when picking a food destination, read on. In this mini guide, we are going to talk about six restaurants in Chester that offer a memorable view, as well as top-rated food.
The Moorings
A charming riverside cafe and restaurant situated right on the banks of the River Dee. If weather permits, you can dine alfresco and enjoy impeccable English breakfasts, Sunday lunch and freshly made sandwiches. In colder climes, the indoor seating still allows you to keep an eye on the river’s boats and wildlife.
And how about this… You can actually stay above the restaurant in this historic building, which was once inhabited by 19th-century boat builders. There is a 2-bedroom apartment with a private rooftop terrace at the residence known as No 23 at The Moorings. With two large double rooms and one of the best restaurants in town downstairs, this is a prized location for your Chester stay.
Hickory’s Smokehouse
Another eatery which takes full advantage of an enviable spot on the banks of the River Dee, Hickory’s Smokehouse (https://chester.com/listing/hickorys-smokehouse/) gives you the traditional cooking of the southern United States. Expect fall-off-the-bone tender meat from their smoker, and the warm welcome that this region of the US is known for.
From brisket to back ribs and cheese sausages, there are enough barbecue options to send you gently into a short food coma! If you are just stopping by for a snack or drink, there is also a sharing menu and lighter bites to choose from.
The Chester Fields Country Pub & Restaurant
If you’ve already spent a few days in Chester city centre, you may feel that it’s time to explore further afield. The Chester Fields is located a few miles outside Chester in tranquil countryside. It is known for a distinctive Austrian ski lodge in its beer garden, as well as an excellent menu which focuses on local provenance.
Stars of the varied summer menu include the Middle Eastern Mezze and NYC Burger, and you should consider an aperitif – the Austrian Schnapps is the real deal, and the range of real ales is impressive. The beer garden isn’t out of bounds in the winter – heaters and blankets can be provided – and you might notice a rare sight next door; a field of alpacas, the lovable furry mammals native to South America.
The Boathouse Inn & Riverside Rooms
Let’s head back to the river. The Boathouse Inn & Riverside Rooms is on the River Dee, and a short walk from the city. You’ll get the river view, as well as a menu centred on classic dishes – from pub favourites to a popular Sunday Lunch and regularly praised English breakfast.
Other than dining on a boat, the unique floating deck/bar area is surely the best way to soak in the river atmosphere near the heart of the city. Practically speaking, free parking might be a big pull for some, considering The Boathouse Inn & Riverside Rooms’ location near some of Chester’s most in-demand attractions.
The Pheasant Inn
If you fancy a hike in the Peckforton Hills – which offer panoramic views across the Cheshire plains and to the Welsh mountains – you can do a lot worse than double up with a meal at the Pheasant Inn.
This restaurant and pub is also a boutique hotel, and has earned an AA Rosette for its superb comfort food. Fish ‘n’ chips, steak and ale pie and roasted rump of lamb are all prepared and served with aplomb. Whether you want a rewarding dinner or a fuelling lunch, the Pheasant Inn is calling.
Rooftop Social Club
We’ll end with a vibrant evening option in the heart of the city centre. The Rooftop Social Club is a place to convene, catch up and feast. And if you were worried about a scant, bar-style menu, you needn’t be.
Food is provided by a collection of independent traders who have set up stalls in this two-level venue – with a retractable roof – so you’ll choose from delights such as tacos, gyros, burgers and pizza, with craft ale, cocktails and wine taken care of by the Liquor & Co.