If you're on the hunt for a tasty bite in Bridgend it's no secret that you've got a whole range to choose from. From hearty pub grub to tasty tapas, there's no shortage of eateries here and more and more are popping up all the time.
There is also something for everyone, whether you enjoy the finer things in life or are eating out on a lower budget. Bridgend has it all. But with so many choices where do you start?
Luckily for you we've scoured the internet to see what people are saying about Bridgend's food scene and narrowed the suggestions down to a list of the very best places to eat. For the latest Bridgend news sign up to our newsletter here.
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Frolics Restaurant
Frolics is a sophisticated dining spot in the heart of Southerndown, and has received some of the most impressive reviews in Bridgend. Rated five stars on TripAdvisor, and 4.9 on Google reviews, it is clear that people have been loving it.
It has a small, but mighty menu according to customers, who have been raving not only about how much they enjoyed tasting the dishes on offer, but also their immaculate presentation. And although its exterior looks fairly simple, the food here looks as good as any Michelin star restaurant would, and all without the hefty price tag.
Facebook is also brimming with positive reviews of this restaurant. One person summed up the gushing feedback they had been getting from customers, by writing: "A small, private, family-run restaurant with delicious food, warm personal service and lovely atmosphere. We had a wonderful lunch. A definite must"
Ashoka Tandoori
Ashoka has been getting some glowing reviews online. One person even said that it was the "best Indian restaurant in Wales" and that it "knocked the socks off" any others.
It has a 4.5 star rating on Tripadvisor and Google reviews, and has been a firm fixture of the community for decades. Established in 1987, it is the longest running Indian restaurant in Bridgend.
Its menu consists of a range of dishes from India, Bangladesh and Pakistan. In 2008, the Ashoka Tandoori underwent a major refurbishment as well as an extension to the premises to modernise its long-standing restaurant.
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Franco's Ristorante Vecchio
Family-run Franco’s Vecchio Italian Restaurant has been delighting customers over the years. It is currently rated five stars on Tripadvisor, and 4.9 stars on Google reviews- but is all about providing customers with something that feels authentic rather than depending on its reputation.
Despite the ups and downs over the years with the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, the owner is now so happy with the way things are going for the foreseeable future that he wants to focus on the customers he has got, rather than try and expand further- so if you are looking for a lesser-known restaurant with that authentic feel, this could be the place for you.
The Green Olive
If you are a lover of all foods fresh and flavoursome, the Green Olive in Porthcawl is the restaurant for you. Think vivid salads, and sandwiches to die for- there is a huge range of healthy options people can choose from, that look as if they will leave you feeling truly nourished and rejuvenated.
Located just by Coney Beach, the restaurant also offers a takeout option as well as having a small seating area. So if you are looking to swap your chips on the beach for something a little more refreshing, then this could be a great shout. It has a five-star rating on both Google reviews and Tripadvisor, and people have also been praising its coffee in the online reviews they have left. One happy customer wrote on their Google review: "Little gem in Porthcawl, fresh food and stunning coffee!
"Where I can I always try and find independent places to grab a bite to eat, this place fitted the bill and what's more it did Coaltown coffee! My fave! I had a prawn mayo wrap and salad, all ingredients were fresh and tasty. Well worth finding this little place and getting lunch here!"
The Star Inn
The Star Inn is a perfect spot for those looking for a quiet evening out, and is located in the village of Treoes. The pub, which is the perfect mixture of modern-meets-classic when it comes to interior, also has a beer garden, and a menu which features a variety of dishes.
Best known for its comforting Sunday lunches and hearty pies, this place has stolen the hearts of locals, and people from further afield. It has a 4.5-star rating on Tripadvisor and Google reviews, and it seems that the pub has had something of a transformation, with one person even describing it as being, "by far, the best the Star has been for food over the last 10 years."
Poco Poco
Poco Poco is one of the highest-rated restaurants in Bridgend, boasting a 4.7-star rating on Google and a 4.5 rating on Tripadvisor. This snug, rustic-chic eatery with a patio dishing up tapas, pastas, seafood and cheese boards has been praised not only for its superb food, but also convenient location in Elder Street, in the town centre and for it's "attentive staff."
According to its website, its mission is to create a dining experience with a European atmosphere. Its range of Tapas draws on inspiration from all around the world. Poco Poco has been a part of the community since 2009 when it was first established, and it did so well that it moved to a bigger premises in 2018 and survived all throughout the pandemic.
The Golden Mile Country Inn
If you are in the mood for proper pub food, the Golden Mile is a must. Set amid beautiful countryside views in Corntown and serving fresh, local produce what's not to love?
People have been raving about its generous portion sizes in its online reviews, where this popular pub is rated 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor, and 4.6 on Google reviews, so it definitely seems like one for the bucket list if you're a foodie with a big appetite.
Leicester's Restaurant
Holding 2 coveted AA Rosettes and twice named Country Restaurant of the Year, Leicester's Restaurant is no stranger to the food scene in Bridgend, and is totally worth going out of the way for in Laleston.
Leicester's is tucked inside the charming Great House Hotel in Bridgend and uses organic local produce wherever possible, including fresh fish caught in nearby Porthcawl. You can sample a terrine of free range chicken and foie gras with parsnip puree and house dried figs, or the justifiably famous Welsh beef, served in a red wine and shallot sauce on creamed cabbage, and there are also loads of vegan and vegetarian options available. It is rated 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor and 4.4 on Google reviews.
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