Bradford may have been long known as the Curry Capital of Britain, but its food scene is much more than just great curries. The city offers a rich and diverse mix of flavours, shaped by its South Asian heritage, British heritage and beyond. Bradford is full of culinary gems from all over the continent, beloved old favourites to bold, modern kitchens making their mark.
7 Best Restaurants in Bradford
1. Classic Persian
2. The International
3. MyLahore Restaurant
4. Mezza Restaurant
5. Shimla Shipley
6. My Thai Restaurant
7. La Caverna
Best Restaurants in Bradford
So if you are a foodie, buckle up and read because this is a list of some of the best restaurants to try out if you are visiting Bradford.
1. Classic Persian
If you’re looking for something aromatic and a little different from the usual, Classic Persian Restaurant is worth giving a go. The restaurant is known for serving authentic Persian dishes that have been perfected over centuries. Thanks to Iran’s unique blends of interwoven cultures, Persian food is incredibly diverse, and you will taste dishes influenced by Turkey, the Caucasus, Mesopotamia, Greece, and even Russia.
Classic Persian cuisine’s magic lies in the mix of fresh herbs, fruits, rice, and tender meats. The ingredients come together to create complex, satisfying dishes full of flavour and taste. Kebabs are at the heart of the menu, each one carefully prepared over a charcoal grill for maximum flavour. The Chello Kebab is a must-try, with standout versions like the Koubideh (minced lamb, juicy and rich), the Bargh (lamb fillet with grilled tomato), and the Ghafghazi (a delicious mix of chicken and lamb). For something lighter, the Joojeh chicken marinated in lemon juice and saffron is a favourite.
But meat isn’t the whole menu at Classic Persian. The restaurant also offers a fantastic selection of vegetarian dishes, each one a traditional recipe in its own right. Dolmeh (vine leaves stuffed with herbs, lentils and rice) are delicate but delicious, while Kashk Bademjan, a creamy mix of baked aubergine, walnuts, onions, garlic, and spices, is a comforting, hearty choice. Another highlight is Mirza Ghasemi, with smoky grilled aubergine, garlic, tomato, and egg, full of flavour and perfect with warm bread.
Quality and freshness are priorities for all the cooking done at Classic Persian. The service is friendly and attentive, and there is the added thrill of watching your food being prepared on the grill. The atmosphere is relaxed and unpretentious, and you’re welcome to bring your own alcoholic drinks if you like.
Location: 368 Little Horton Lane, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Price Range: £20 – £50
2. The International Restaurant
Walking into The International feels like stepping back into the heart of Bradford’s culinary history. Since opening on Morley Street back in 1976, the family-run restaurant has built a loyal following largely because of three things. Freshly cooked, with a homely feel, and the service is amazing in a pretty down-to-earth setting, all at an affordable price.
Their menu stays true to its roots with classics like the shami kebabs, samosas, biryanis, alongside traditional Punjabi desi dishes like lamb on the bone, maghraz, slow-cooked nihari, and paya (lamb trotters). Also, Vegetarians are well looked after, with plenty of hearty, flavour-packed side dishes that can be put together to make a filling, tasty main. You definitely don’t want to miss soft, fluffy naan, too; it is a major highlight of the meal.
Their portions are generous at the International, so don’t be shy about asking for a takeaway box. Alcohol is not served at the restaurant, but you’re welcome to bring your own, or try their range of mocktails and lassis, which make a refreshing alternative. There are also no dessert options, but with the amount of mains available, you don’t need desserts anyway.
Location: 40 – 42 Mannville Terrace, Morley Street, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Price Range: £15 – £25
3. MyLahore Kitchen
MyLahore is an impressive fusion of British and Asian culture, rooted in Yorkshire. The restaurant was built on the simple idea of bringing people together through great food and memorable experiences. MyLahore ethos was born from its two immigrant founders, and these migrant generations have inspired the team behind MyLahore to set out to share something positive but different.
The menu combines richly spiced South Asian classics with comforting British favourites, blended expertly to create something new. You can’t tuck into a fragrant karahi or go for something very different like the chicken parmesan done the MyLahore way. Signature dishes like chicken methi malal and lamb nihari are paired side-by-side with the classic burgers, creamy chicken pasta and fresh waffles. There are also a few vegetarian curry options like the aloo parak and vegan karahi.
The drinks menu is just as much fun, with simple milkshakes and creative mocktails that are almost as popular as the food itself. From the virgin mojito and mango mist to the kulfi and mango lassi. For desserts, diners have a range of selections to choose from. From the homemade menu of jam roly poly or chocolate sponge pudding to ice cream and crunchy sundaes options.
MyLahore is one of the best places to eat in Bradford, a remarkable example of cultural fusion done right.
Location: 52, Great Horton Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Price Range: £10 – £20
4. Mezza Restaurant
Mezza is a family-run restaurant established in 2020 that has quickly risen to fame over the last couple of years. Just taking home the award for Best Lebanese Restaurant in Britain at the British Kebab Awards. The restaurant is located in a once-neglected Grade II listed property, brought back to life by the owners drawing on their childhood memories of Lebanon. The space has been transformed into a welcoming but opulent room.
The menu celebrates authentic Lebanese and Levantine flavours, full of fresh, flavourful dishes that are perfect for sharing. You’ll find colourful mezza plates. ideal for sampling a bit of everything alongside tender grilled meats, fragrant stews, and traditional breads, all made with care and top-quality ingredients. For brunch, there is a whole menu of different types of eggs offered from the Babylonian Mekhlame, cooked with lamb, to the Levantine Omelette, the fatteh or ful medames.
For dinner, the roasted lamb, dolma or spicy tava is a must-try. You can either opt for the traditional dessert option of baklava and kunafa, or simply go for the western pudding, waffle and sundae options. The restaurant also has a lot of vegetarian options, including the veggie tava, falafel and vegetarian kebab options. Every dish is rooted in time-honoured recipes, reflecting the warmth and generosity of Lebanese dining.
Mezza also offers a chance to experience some of the best Middle Eastern food in Bradford. The menu options fit into both casual lunch and a special evening out, where you will get to taste not just great cooking but a unique heritage brought to life.
Location: Legrams Mill, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Price Range: £20 – £35
5. Shimla Spice
Shimla Spice has earned a reputation for its authentic Pakistani and Indian dishes, with a special nod to rich Kashmiri flavours. Founded by three food-loving brothers, it has quickly become a local favourite. Well known across Yorkshire for its excellent service, delicious food, and welcoming atmosphere.
Its chefs use only the freshest ingredients to create bold, flavour-rich dishes. With standouts including the tender lamb rogan josh, the creamy chicken tikka masala, and their humongous, freshly baked naan, which is a must try. If you prefer a more traditional option, try the Maghraz, Lamb Nihari, Meat on the Bone or Paya. For dessert, you can either opt for the traditional, sweet or spicy mango lassi or the mocktail and mineral option.
The restaurant is a very family-friendly restaurant, so you can easily visit with your kids. This doesn’t make it less perfect for a date night or casual hangout with friends.
Location: 69 Otley Road, Shipley, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom.
Price Range: £20 – £60
6. My Thai Restaurant
My Thai in Bradford is a simple no no-fluff restaurant that delivers all the aromatic flavours Thai cuisine is known for. On the menu, you can expect the perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy.
You can get classic options like red curries, wonton soup and tom kha or tom yun (mushroom in lemon grass broth). There is also the main option of tender chicken satay, fiery Yen Ta Fo soup, and of course, the ever-popular Pad Thai and Pad Kee Mow. Like many great Thai restaurants, My Thai prides itself on using fresh, fragrant ingredients and adjusting spice levels to suit your taste
Location: 200 Keighley Road, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Price Range: £20 – £35
7. Best Restaurants in Bradford: La Caverna
If you are a true pizza lover, then you’ll quickly fall in love with La Caverna. The cosy, 20-seat Italian restaurant has a romantic, intimate vibe located within the Sunbridgewell tunnels. Its unique underground setting, with exposed stone walls, soft candlelight, and low lighting, creates an atmosphere that is both charming and unforgettable.
Caverna specialises in authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, made the traditional way in a wood-fired oven. The menu is small with classics like the Margherita sitting alongside more inventive creations like the Messina, topped with tuna and potato, or the Diavola made with nduja and pepperoni. For drinks, they offer classic Italian red wines, white wines, cocktails and mineral water. Totally depending on your preference.
The attention to detail at the Caverna, though, is what keeps diners coming back for more. From the beautifully blistered pizza crusts to the use of imported Italian ingredients. They also cater to everyone, with vegan and halal options on offer.
Location: Millergate, Sunbridgewells, Bradford, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Price Range: £10 – £20
Dining in Bradford is almost too easy with the lineup of restaurants available to be explored, whether you are in search of a good curry house or a Lebanese diner. It doesn’t matter if it is a simple English breakfast, casual lunch or Asian dinner that you are on the lookout for, there is always something for food lovers in Bradford.
