Spitfire Barbecue

Restaurant | Bristol | England | United Kingdom

Authentic barbecue cuisine Bristol

The "Spitfire Barbecue" in Bristol, England, is a renowned restaurant specializing in authentic barbecue cuisine, located right on the picturesque Harbourside of the city. Founded by Billy Steyn, whose South African roots have a significant influence on the concept and flavors of the establishment, the restaurant combines traditional cooking methods with a modern twist. It is known for its generous portions that appeal to both meat lovers and food enthusiasts. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, with a touch of rustic charm enhanced by the use of a traditional wood grill, which imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the dishes.

South African influences in restaurant

Culinarily, "Spitfire Barbecue" stands for high-quality ingredients and careful preparation. The St. Louis ribs are particularly highlighted, slow-cooked in the smoker for up to 14 hours until they are tender and juicy, topped with a sweet and spicy glaze that makes them irresistible. Another highlight is the pulled pork, which is also braised for a long time and served with a tangy BBQ sauce—perfect for anyone seeking the typical taste of Texas barbecue. The dirty fries, lavishly topped with melted cheese and meat scraps, are also a favorite and perfect for sharing. In addition to the meat dishes, there are options like jerk-seasoned grilled chicken, bringing a Caribbean flair, as well as vegetarian alternatives that are prepared with care.

Tasty St. Louis ribs specialty

The drinks menu is equally diverse and complements the hearty dishes perfectly. The cocktails are eye-catching, often featuring creative names and flavors inspired by South African and American influences. Particularly popular are the 2-for-1 cocktail offers available on certain days, making for a more sociable evening. There is also a selection of craft beers and local beverages that emphasize quality. To round off the meal, tempting desserts such as a rich chocolate brownie or a refreshing lemon cake provide a harmonious ending.

Cozy restaurant by the harbourside

The ambiance of "Spitfire Barbecue" is characterized by its waterfront location, giving the restaurant a unique charm. The decor is modern yet not overly fancy, with a focus on coziness and enjoyment. The aroma of wood fire and grilled meat fills the air, creating an inviting atmosphere reminiscent of a campfire. The service is friendly and attentive, with staff often providing tips on the best combinations of food and drinks. The venue is suitable for families and groups alike, offering indoor seating as well as a terrace overlooking the harbor, which is particularly popular in good weather.

Contact details

Web

Phone

Address
1 Hannover Quay
BS1 5JE Bristol

Map view

Opening hours

Sunday12:00 - 23:00
Monday12:00 - 23:00
Tuesday12:00 - 23:00
Wednesday12:00 - 23:00
Thursday12:00 - 23:00
Friday12:00 - 23:00
Saturday12:00 - 23:00

Reviews

2660 Reviews

Karen Rojas Dueñas
09.03.2025

My chicken burger was more spicy than I expected. However, everything it was ok
Curtis
03.03.2025

Fire food, great service and a great atmosphere. I ordered: brisket mac and cheese Fried cornbread Beef brisket Sausage Half rack of ribs The spitfire lager is also fire Fire
Carl Buckley
03.03.2025

Very disappointed. Initial greeting was very miserable. Was put right next to kitchen and witnessed one of the chefs who was not wearing a hat scratching his head vigorously on more than one occasion and then touching food. Informed the manager and left the restaurant.
JOSHT
02.03.2025

Top tier grub
Jack Butterfield
22.02.2025

Really nice atmosphere, fast service and brilliant food. Would definitely recommend.
Rahman Amin
21.02.2025

First time here and really enjoyed the experience. Special thanks to Lucas for providing us with great service. Lovely food, lovely experience. If you are visiting Bristol, make it part of your visit.
Tracy Franklin
19.02.2025

Highly recommend, great food, great atmosphere,
Mlc Lc
19.02.2025

Very friendly staff. We forgot our backpack and they came running to find us! Food was delicious! Very enjoyable experience
Amy Meadmore
18.02.2025

Absolutely amazing BBQ food at really reasonable prices. Was stuffed by the end. Such a nice location too!
Scortcoz
15.02.2025

Food was absolutely terrible. Took us 30 minutes to serve us. I would not recommend.
Drue Thompson
11.02.2025

Another great meal at Spitfire! The staff are friendly and welcoming! And the food is just outstanding!
Sam Evans
08.02.2025

Looked online saw there was tables available, as we was only 5 mins away we walked round only to be told there was no tables available!! As I left I could still book tables online which was confusing.Really disappointing and a waste of our time.
Katie Russell
06.02.2025

Lovely place on the waterfront, we all really enjoyed our meals, personally had the burger and it was lush! Wasn't pink like I'd worried and not gritty at all! Delicious 😋 service was excellent and quick as well 😄 fairly priced as well, deffo go back
Sarah Readman
31.01.2025

Excellent
Hugo R
27.01.2025

Solid Bbq establishment
Tom Smith
26.01.2025

Amazing food, right on the harbour side
Jon Davies
25.01.2025

Brisket was a bit dry, but overall food and service was top tier.
Ella Louise
20.01.2025

We have been to this place 3 times now and we absolutely love it! Absolutely amazing food, can be expensive but is worth it! The cocktails are not great unfortunately so stick with spirits or beer. We did have ONE slightly disappointing experience last valentines day however they were extremely busy so we gave them, the benefit of the doubt. It was an hour wait for food then when it came was slightly overdone. Again we put this down to it being an extremely busy day. The ribs, pulled pork burger and mac n cheese are our personal favourites! Definitely the best bbq/grill place in the centre. Just wish they did better cocktails! Also the parking isn't great but that isn't their fault.
Dominic Wade
17.01.2025

It felt very American, that being a good thing 😜
F P
13.01.2025

Had a nice time at spitfire. We thought the meat was a bit tough and not too flavoursome unfortunately and were a bit gutted as were looking forward to it. Not sure it is Smoked for hours/days/whatever it says! The cocktails were OK but they are reasonably priced for Bristol so can't complain, does the job lol! The atmosphere was a bit quiet but maybe that was the time of day and it is winter in January after all! Our server Lucas (apologies if I got your name wrong!!) was very friendly and efficient and I think that's quite rare these days, so we were grateful for that :) I will probably be back in the summer as I want to try the ribs!!! Overall - had a nice time and will be back to try other items :D

 

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