NOTE: THIS POST HAS BEEN UPDATED & CAN NOW BE FOUND ON SCENE IN KNUTSFORD: sceneinknutsford.com/best-places-to-eat-in-knutsford
Where are the best places to eat in Knutsford?
Knutsford is a beautiful market town which boasts some of the top restaurants, bars and cafes in Cheshire.
Whether it's for breakfast, lunch or dinner. Casual or fine dining. Family friendly, perfect for groups, or the ultimate romantic setting, Knutsford has somewhere for every occasion.
So if you're planning a visit to the town, and wondering where to find the best places to eat, here I'll share experiences, food reviews and recommendations to help you make the ideal choice for you.
King Street Kitchen
Many of Knutsford's restaurants are located on King Street (also known as Bottom Street), so it seems appropriate to begin with the aptly named King Street Kitchen.
This restaurant is one of my favourite places to dine. The food is delicious and the service is consistently good. Plus, I love all the greenery which compliments the natural wood and muted colours to create a relaxed vibe.
Recommended for: All-day dining and healthier food choices
King Street Kitchen open daily from 8.30am (9am Sundays), closing at 9pm Monday-Thursday, 10pm Fridays & Saturdays, and 6pm Sundays. You're welcome to pop in just for coffee, or stay for some of their fabulous food.
With a focus on healthier meals, there's something to suit most palettes, with plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options.
Breakfast choices include pastries, full English, and breakfast burrito. Plus my personal favourites, the poached eggs & avocado, or Ultimate Porridge bowl. Both offer a generous portion, and are the perfect way to fuel up for the day.
The Ancient Grains bowls are always a popular choice for lunch and dinner. Packed with rice, grains and plenty of healthy vegetables, then topped with meat, fish or halloumi, they're a taste sensation.
One of my go-to evening menu dishes is the Nasi Goreng, available as a starter or a main. I tend to order it as a main, as I just can't seem to resist the King Street Kitchen Salt & Pepper Cauliflower Wings starter.
To make a reservation, check opening times, and view current menus, visit the King Street Kitchen website at kingstreetknutsford.com
The Botanist
Bare brick walls and wooden floors, mix perfectly with floral fabrics and mismatched chairs to create the quirky surroundings of The Botanist. Another of Knutsford's restaurants which provides a relaxed atmosphere and great food.
If you're a fan of having your meal served in a unique way, you'll love this restaurant. Think plant pots, wicker baskets and of course, The Botanist famous hanging kebab.
Recommended for: Family dining
One of the best family friendly Knutsford restaurants, the kids menu includes burgers, chicken fingers and pasta. Adults can choose from pies, burgers, fish, or even a selection of dishes on the Hot Board. And my youngest teenager can confirm the Cookie Dough with Oreos and vanilla ice cream is the perfect way to finish off your meal.
Open daily from noon, The Botanist Knutsford serves lunch and dinner. You can also visit just for drinks, with an extensive cocktail list, plenty of gins, wines, and beers to choose from.
Check out their menu and make a reservation via their website at: thebotanist.uk.com/locations/knutsford
Evuna
Tasty tapas and great wine are on the menu at Evuna Knutsford. Perfect for a light bite at lunchtime, or a long evening sharing fabulous Spanish food and drink with friends.
Set back slightly from the road, the restaurant is deceptively spacious with seating spread over 2 floors. Downstairs provides the opportunity to dine at the bar, or at one of the rustic wooden tables. There are even a couple of high window seats for anyone wishing to watch the world go by as they eat and drink.
Upstairs there's more room for larger groups, plus a small outdoor terrace for when the sun shines.
Recommended for: Delicious tapas and great wine choices
An extensive tapas selection includes plenty of choice from nibbles, vegetarian, fish, and meat options. 3 different types of paella are also included on the menu, and are an ideal size for sharing.
Classic favourites such as patatas bravas and cured meats, are offered alongside Spanish tortilla and a generous serving of calamares. If you're a meat eater, I can highly recommend the Iberian slow cooked pork cheeks with mashed potato, it's rich, tender, and absolutely scrumptious. Whereas, the rest of the family always enjoy the Giant garlic prawns with chilli and oil.
As you would expect, Evuna offers some excellent Spanish Wines to accompany it's tapas dishes. My absolute favourite is the Fulget. A beautifully fruity Albarino white wine which comes in a unique blue bottle.
There's also a great choice of reds, rose, fizz, beers, and even an Evuna Sangria. And you can finish off your meal in style with one of Evunas dessert wines or a delicious alcoholic coffee.
Evuna Knutsford open Noon-11pm Thursday - Sunday, and from 5pm on Wednesdays. They are currently closed on a Monday and Tuesday, except Bank Holidays.
To check up to date opening times, view full menus, and to book a table, visit the website at: evuna.com/restaurant/knutsford
Gusto Italian
Staying with Mediterranean cuisine, this time we're heading to Italy courtesy of Gusto Italian.
Recommended for: A lively atmosphere and group dining
A lively atmosphere makes this restaurant popular with families and large groups, so booking is highly recommended.
On the menu there's a whole host of Italian classics including pizzas, pasta, meat dishes and salads.
The Pan Fried Fillet of Sea Bass always gets the thumbs up from my husband, and I absolutely love the Romesco Bucatini pasta dish. The pizzas and garlic breads are particularly good, especially if you prefer them thin, crispy, and covered in plenty of toppings.
Begin your meal the Italian way with one of the many traditional Aperitivo on the drinks menu. Gusto also serve an impressive list of cocktails, including non-alcoholic versions, plus there's a good selection of Italian wines to choose from.
Gusto Knutsford open daily from noon until 10pm. To book a table or view the current menu, visit gustorestaurants.uk.com/restaurants/knutsford
Pastiche
If you can't decide between tapas or pizza. Or you'd rather dine somewhere a little quieter, then Pastiche is the place for you.
Recommended for: A relaxed atmosphere and tasty Italian classics
This relaxed and friendly family run restaurant located on Tatton Street serves some mouthwateringly good tapas. Their extensive pizza menu is always a popular choice, and they also offer a delicious selection of Italian dishes.
Dine on classics such as Spaghetti Carbonara, Lasagne al Forno, or my personal favourite Pastiche dish of Canneloni.
It's easy to see why this great restaurant is so popular when you're served a generous bowl of creamy Chicken & Sun Blush Tomatoes with linguine. Or the tasty Pasta de la Casa with it's choice of sauces.
Check out the full menu at www.pasticherestaurant.co.uk/menu
Pastiche open Monday - Saturday from 5.30pm, making the restaurant an ideal location for a laid back evening meal with family or friends.
Project 53
Discover even more casual dining and great pizzas, at Project 53 on Minshull Street.
Recommended for: Casual dining, great beer choices and good pizzas
This welcoming bar is a testament to some of the fantastic food and drink produced in Cheshire. Locally brewed beer, artisan gins, tasty sharing boards and hand pulled pizzas combine perfectly with the rustic yet charming surroundings.
Project 53 are open Wednesday - Sunday from noon until late, Tuesdays 11am-4pm, and close on a Monday. For up to date opening hours, and to learn more about the back story to this great Knutsford establishment, visit the Project 53 website at: project53.bar
April's Kitchen
April's Kitchen is one of Knutsford's most diverse eateries, with relaxed surroundings, delicious food and an impressively well stocked bar.
The restaurant is no longer open in the evenings, however, it still provides the ideal spot for a casual breakfast, lunch or a catch up over coffee and some of their tasty cakes.
Recommended for: All-day dining, with plenty of healthy options.
Breakfast offerings on the all day breakfast and lunch menu include healthy oat dishes, pancakes, omelettes and a full English.
There's a wide choice of sandwiches and Buddha Bowls which are perfect for lunch. And don't forget to check out the daily specials board which changes on a regular basis.
In the past, we've enjoyed a whole range of delicious plates including Hoisin Duck with Stir Fried Noodles & Julienne Vegetables, or Piri Piri Chicken Wings & Sriracha Mayo.
April's Kitchen has one of the best menus if you have any special dietary requirements including vegetarian, vegan, dairy free and gluten free. Check out full details on their website: www.aprils-kitchen.co.uk/aprils-knutsford
Due to it's popularity, and the layout of the restaurant, I recommend booking a table prior to your visit.
You may have luck being seated straight away if you're dining as a couple, but as there are a limited number of tables suitable for large groups, booking is advised if you're planning to arrive en masse.
Kampai Sushi Bar & Restaurant
If you're a Sushi fan, then head to one of Knutsford's newest restaurants, Kampai Sushi Bar & Grill. An inviting blossom tree adorned entrance leads to where Japanese artefacts, pictures and low level lighting create a more intimate atmosphere.
Recommended for: More adventurous eaters and a more intimate atmosphere
The layout of the restaurant provides areas suitable for larger groups, as well as couples. Although it's family friendly and has dishes to suit most palettes, I recommend checking out the menu if you have very young children or particulary fussy eaters before you book a table.
As a non-fish eater, I discovered plenty of vegetarian and meat options. In fact, the hardest part is choosing from the extensive range of hot and cold starters, skewers, Uramaki, Sashimi, specials, sharing platters and more.
The impressive looking Seafood Sharing Platter certainly got a thumbs up from my fellow diners.
Sushi and Sashimi starter options include salmon, tuna, seabass and eel amongst others. Whereas hot starter choices range from Gyoza, Tempura, Japanese Croquettes and Boa Buns. The Chicken Katsu version are excellent.
Also worth a mention are the Kampai Skewers. The Yakitori Chicken Thigh Skewers are extremely tasty, and the Beef Yakiniku are packed with succulent meat. Absolutely delicious.
Kampai Sushi Bar & Grill Knutsford are open for dinner from 4pm Tuesday - Friday, closing at 10pm (11pm Fridays). On Saturday and Sunday the restaurant opens at 12 noon, giving you the opportunity to enjoy their food and hospitality for both lunch or dinner at the weekend.
To check opening times, view the menu or make a booking, visit the Kampai Sushi website at: kampaisushibar.co.uk
Rose & Crown
Cosy surroundings, excellent service and one of the best Sunday roast dinners in Knutsford await you at the Rose & Crown.
This 17th century coaching inn is still used as a hotel today, with newly refurbished rooms providing a great base from which to explore the local area.
You're also welcome to stop by for a drink at the bar, or stay for a meal in the comfortable restaurant area. A large outdoor terrace provides extra space, meaning the Rose & Crown can cater for various group sizes from couples through to big family gatherings.
Recommended for: Delicious pub food, including one of the best Sunday Roast dinners in Knutsford
The a-la-carte menu, which is available during the week and Saturdays, offers a great selection of traditional pub meals. Choices include homemade pie & mash, beer battered cod & chips, and braised lamb shoulder.
We've tried a number of dishes at The Rose & Crown, including Pie & Mash, and a Steak Burger with all it's trimmings. Both are absolutely delicious, and we would certainly recommend ordering either for your meal.
A smaller selection of a-la-carte meals are available on the Sunday menu, alongside a number of delicious roast dinner options. Perfectly cooked meat is accompanied by a large range of tasty vegetables such as, carrots, greens, cauliflower cheese, and of course, crispy roast potatoes and Yorkshire puddings.
All the Rose & Crown menus regularly change to reflect the seasons, so it's worth checking what's included when you book.
Bookings and enquiries can be made by calling the restaurant on Tel: 01565 652366. Alternatively, email your details over to the team and someone will contact you back.
Current menus and the contact form can be found on the Rose & Crown website: knutsfordroseandcrown.co.uk
Shamoli
Directly across the road from The Rose & Crown is one of Knutsford's less visible eateries, Shamoli.
This fabulous Indian restaurant is easily missed due to all seating being below street level, but it's certainly one worth seeking out.
Recommended for: Excellent service and a huge choice of tasty Indian cuisine
Whether we're popping in to pick up a takeaway, or dining at the restaurant, we're always given a warm welcome and friendly service here.
There's a huge selection of Indian cusine to choose from on the menu. These include traditional classics, chefs recommendations, and Shamoli signature dishes.
My husband's favourite is the North Indian Garlic Chilli. A rather spicy but extremely tasty dish. If you're seeking something a little milder, the Chicken Tikka Chom Chom and the Tandoori Butter Chicken are both delicious choices.
Personally, I love the Chicken Tikka Byriani from Shamoli. The large chicken pieces are always perfectly cooked, and the accompanying sauce is packed full of scrumptious vegetables.
Shamoli open 7 days a week from 5pm (4pm Sundays), making them a great choice if you're seeking fabulous Indian food during the evening.
Tables can be booked by calling Tel: 01565 652735, and you can check out the restaurant and takeaway menus on their website: shamoli-restaurant.com
The Courtyard (Coffee House)
Another of Knutsford's hidden gems is The Courtyard.
As the name suggests, this delightful cafe boasts a wonderful cobbled courtyard where guests can dine surrounded by flowers and quirky artefacts.
The quirkiness continues inside with an impressive array of antique Penny Farthing's which hang from the ceiling of the main cafe building and adjoining conservatory.
If there's no room inside, a large outdoor marquee provides plenty of extra seating. Plus the chance to enjoy the tasty food and drinks even in wet weather.
Recommended for: Daytime dining and lighter bites
The breakfast menu is served all day, and includes a number of classic hot favourites, as well as a selection of pastries.
My husband is a fan of The Courtyard Breakfast with it's high quality ingredients which are all perfectly cooked.
Personally, I tend to choose the tasty Eggs Florentine. I love the generous serving of spinach and poached eggs covered in a delicious hollandaise sauce.
Lunchtime provides the opportunity to enjoy a warming soup of the day, plus a selection of omelettes, sandwiches and salads. There are also additional hot options on the menu including a delicious Pan Seared Sirloin Ciabatta served with chunky chips and caramelised onion marmalade. Yum.
Carrot Cake fans will be pleased to know this is one of the large range of scrumptious cakes and hot drinks also served throughout the day. In addition, there's an extensive gluten free menu, and one for children up to the age of 12.
All this makes The Courtyard an ideal spot for a hearty breakfast, mid-morning pick me up, casual lunch, or a relaxing afternoon catching up with friends and family.
How to find The Courtyard
Due to it's unique location, The Courtyard can be easily missed. The cafe is accessed via the cobble lined alleyway leading off King Street (at the Minshull Street end).
Look for the chef located next to the distinctive black and white building, then follow the cobbles under the sign.
The Courtyard open daily from 9.30am (10am Sundays) and close at 4pm (3.30pm Tues & Weds).
This is a popular cafe throughout the day, therefore I would recommend booking to guarantee a table by calling 01565 653974.
To check current opening times and view menus, visit The Courtyard website at: www.thecourtyardknutsford.co.uk
Cafe on the Corner
Situated a little further along from the entrance to The Courtyard is Cafe on the Corner. This family run eatery offers seating over 2 floors, plus a small outdoor terrace, as well as a takeaway service.
Recommended for: Casual dining and takeaways
The extensive menu incudes a number of breakfast and lunchtime favourites, some with a tasty Turkish twist. Hot drinks and cakes are also available, together with a selection of rather delicious milkshakes. All this makes Cafe on the Corner another of Knutsford's popular locations.
Cafe on the Corner open at 8.45am, so you can start your day with something from the all day breakfast menu. Options include: Full English, Smoked Salmon Bagel, Steak & Eggs, plus a Vegetarian Breakfast.
The servings are always a good size, and I love the variety of Turkish inspired dishes on the menu. I'll often order the tasty Meze Platter with it's deliciously fresh mediterranean cheeses, olives, hummus and pita.
Other choices include a wide variety of paninis, sandwiches, salads, kebabs and jacket potatoes. Baguettes can be ordered as full or half portions. And many of the dishes are served with salads and fries.
To view the full menu, visit the Cafe on the Corner website: www.cafecornerknutsford.co.uk
Angel at King Street
On the opposite corner of Minshull Street, with the main entrance facing King Street, is what's known locally as The Angel.
Recommended for: Cheaper dining within pleasant pub surroundings
This welcoming pub has some great beers and pleasant surroundings. It's a Joseph Holt establishment, so there's the usual selection of classic pub dishes on the menu.
These include: fish & chips, pies, steaks, burgers, and a mixed grill. There are also a number of vegetarian options, including a chilli, curry, and a tasty Seeded Beetroot, Red Pepper & Quinoa Burger.
A number of offers are available throughout the week, such as Curry Thursday, Fish Friday, and free ice-cream & drinks for the kids, making this one of the cheaper venues to eat in Knutsford.
In my opinion, the food is good rather than excellent, but this is a great place for casual, classic pub dining.
Angel at King Street open daily from 11.30am-11pm, with food served from noon-9pm.
The Lambing Shed Farm Shop & Kitchen.
Situated on Chelford Road (on the outskirts of town but well worth the walk or short drive here) is The Lambing Shed.
This award winning farm shop and kitchen serves breakfast and lunch on a daily basis, and their food is fabulous.
Recommended for: Breakfast, lunch, cakes & shopping
What better way to start the day than with a Farmers Breakfast, including sausages and bacon from The Lambing Shed's very own butchers counter.
For lunch, I can highly recommend the Buttermilk Chicken Strip Wrap which is served with a generous side of fries. Or how about the best Chicken Caesar Salad ever, thanks to the parma wrapped chicken which really lifts the dish to another level.
Another of my favourite mains here is the Lentil & Squash Chilli Burrito. It's packed with ingredients and plenty of flavour. The perfect vegetarian meal, with a vegan option also available.
The Lambing Shed also serve an impressive selection of cakes and bakes on a daily basis, together with a range of hot and cold drinks.
If you're planning a visit to The Lambing Shed, make sure you set aside time to mooch around the adjoining farm shop. Here you can purchase some of their fantastic produce on the butcher and deli counter. Plus there's a great choice of wines, gins, fresh fruit & veg, frozen goods, and some lovely jars and tins of treats which make wonderful gifts.
There's more to come
I've considered these some of the best places to eat in Knutsford, and have included a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants to give you an idea of the diverse range of eateries the town has to offer.
However, this list is by no means complete. Which means I'll be adding more of Knutsford's dining locations as we eat our way around the town.
So whether you're visiting Knutsford for shopping, a walk in Tatton Park, or meeting up with family and friends, don't forget to check out some of these wonderful locations, to enjoy a plate or two of the best food in Cheshire.
You may also like:
