Craving sunshine and good vibes? Picture this, a warm, golden afternoon where the air is filled with the scent of fresh pastries and sizzling street food, promising a delicious adventure for your taste buds dance?
This eatable paradise can be found in Reading, England, a town that truly delivers when it comes to great food. While many know it for its shopping and business, the culinary scene here is a hidden gem, offering a surprising variety of flavors and dining experiences. From cozy riverside spots to crowded town center eateries, there’s something to satisfy every craving. We’ve rounded up the top 10 places to eat in Reading, highlighting the must-visit restaurants that make this town a foodie’s paradise.
1. London Street Brasserie
A long-standing favourite and one of the top-rated places to eat in Reading, London Street Brasserie offers a fine dining experience on the banks of the River Kennet. This restaurant is celebrated for its modern British cuisine, using high-quality, seasonal ingredients to create appealing dishes. Its stunning waterside setting makes it one of the nicest places to eat in Reading, perfect for a special occasion or a memorable meal with a view.
How to Get There: Conveniently located by the riverside, the restaurant is just a 5-minute walk from Reading train station. It’s also easily accessible by car, with nearby parking available.
2. L’Ortolan
Widely regarded as one of the top restaurants in Reading, L’Ortolan is a Michelin-starred establishment offering a modern European dining experience that’s a true culinary journey. Housed in a beautifully converted 19th-century vicarage, the restaurant provides a luxurious and elegant setting, making it one of the best places to eat in Reading for a truly special occasion.
The menus are thoughtfully planned to showcase the finest seasonal ingredients, with a focus on innovative and beautifully presented dishes.
How to Get There: The Botanist is located right in the heart of Reading town centre, making it easily accessible on foot. You’ll find it close to Broad Street Mall. For those arriving from the airport, Gatwick to Reading Taxis provides a convenient and direct way to get there.
3. Côte Brasserie (Oracle Riverside)
A popular French-inspired restaurant, Côte Brasserie is one of the top places to eat in Reading Oracle, with its best riverside location. It’s a fantastic choice for those looking for classic French cuisine, from steak frites to moules marinières, all served in a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. The beautiful views of the water add to the dining experience, making it a standout among other food places in Reading.
How to Get There: Located inside the Oracle Riverside shopping centre, Côte Brasserie is easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the town centre.
4. Pho Reading (Oracle)
For a taste of authentic Vietnamese street food, Pho Reading is a must-visit. This vibrant restaurant is one of the most popular eating places in Reading, specializing in delicious and aromatic noodle soups, curries, and salads. Located in the heart of the Oracle, it offers a lively and casual atmosphere, perfect for a quick and flavourful meal. Its reputation for serving fresh, authentic dishes makes it a favourite among reading food places for a delicious and healthy option.
How to Get There: You’ll find Pho Reading within the Oracle shopping centre, right next to the popular Riverside dining area.
5. The Botanist
Step into a world of botanical wonder at The Botanist, a beautifully designed restaurant and bar known for its creative cocktails and lively atmosphere. This is one of the good places to eat in Reading town centre if you’re looking for a trendy and unique spot.
The menu features modern British classics with a twist, and the famous “hanging kebabs” are a must-try. The stylish, plant-filled interior makes it one of the nicest places to eat in Reading for a night out with friends or a chic date.
How to Get There: The Botanist is located right in the heart of Reading town centre, making it easily accessible on foot. You’ll find it close to Broad Street Mall. If you’re traveling from further afield, such as from the airport, there are convenient Gatwick to Reading Taxis that can drop you off nearby.
6. The Corn Stores
Located in a beautifully restored building, The Corn Stores is a chic steakhouse and cocktail bar that adds a touch of elegance to the town’s dining scene. It’s one of the top places to eat in Reading town centre for meat lovers and cocktail fans alike.
The menu focuses on high-quality, locally sourced steaks, complemented by a wide selection of fine wines and expertly crafted cocktails. The elegant setting and attentive service make it a standout among Reading town centre restaurants.
How to Get There: You’ll find The Corn Stores on Forbury Road, just a 2-minute walk from Reading train station. It’s perfectly situated for a meal before or after a train journey.
7. Shed
For a more casual and wholesome dining experience, Shed is a popular cafe-style spot known for its delicious brunch and light meals. It’s one of the best healthy places to eat in Reading, with a menu that features fresh, seasonal ingredients and a focus on vegetarian and vegan options.
Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or settling in for a satisfying meal, Shed provides a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Its reputation for great quality and casual charm makes it a top choice among places for lunch in Reading.
How to Get There: The Shed is conveniently located near Merchants Place, just a short and easy walk from the town centre.
8. Tamp Culture Coffee
More than just a coffee shop, Tamp Culture Coffee is a go-to spot for specialty coffee lovers and a fantastic option for a light, healthy bite. It’s one of the most popular places to eat in Reading centre for those on the go or looking for a relaxed spot to work. While their coffee is the star of the show, they also offer a selection of delicious, healthy snacks, pastries, and sandwiches.
Tamp Culture’s commitment to quality and a relaxed vibe makes it a favorite among reading places to eat for a casual, high-quality refuel.
How to Get There: Tamp Culture Coffee is conveniently located in the town centre, right near The Oracle bus stop, making it easily accessible via public transport.
9. Prezzo Reading
For a reliable and family-friendly dining experience, Prezzo is a great choice. This Italian restaurant is a staple among the good places to eat in Reading, offering a wide-ranging menu of classic pizzas, pasta dishes, and other Italian favourites.
With its relaxed atmosphere and consistent quality, it’s a popular spot for casual dinners, family outings, and group gatherings. Its central location makes it a convenient option when you’re looking for places to eat in Reading town.
How to Get There: Prezzo is conveniently located in the heart of Reading town centre, just a short walk from Broad Street and the main shopping areas.
10. Yo! Sushi (Oracle)
For a fun, fast, and flavourful Japanese dining experience, look no further than Yo! Sushi. Located in the bustling Oracle shopping centre, it’s one of the most popular places to eat in Reading, famous for its conveyor belt of fresh sushi, hot dishes, and Japanese street food. The lively atmosphere and quick service make it a perfect spot for a casual lunch or a quick bite while shopping. Yo! Sushi remains a top choice for a delicious and entertaining meal among all the places to eat Reading has to offer.
How to Get There: You’ll find Yo! Sushi inside the Oracle shopping centre, just a 2-minute walk from the Riverside entrance.
Finishing off
When exploring the vibrant food scene of Reading, it’s clear that the town offers an impressive variety of dining options to suit all tastes and occasions. From the scenic waterfront restaurants at the Oracle Riverside to the hidden culinary gems tucked away in the town centre, our guide to the best places to eat in Reading has highlighted some true standouts.
Whether you’re craving a Michelin-starred meal, an authentic taste of international cuisine, or a casual, healthy bite, these restaurants in England consistently deliver on quality and atmosphere.
The diverse range of choices ensures that finding delicious places to eat in Reading is always an exciting kitchen adventure, proving the town is a genuine foodie destination. For seamless travel to and from the area, a service like My London Transfer can provide a reliable link to the capital and beyond.
