Places to eat in Rugby

Our number one recommendation when it comes to restaurants in Rugby simply has to be Café Vin Cinq, a pretty French bistro on the High Street. It’s lovely and relaxed, the food – as far as French eating goes – is unpretentious and delicious, the service is exceptional, it’s won countless awards, and best of all, it’s barely more than a five-minute drive from either of our Rugby hotels.

From the official best restaurant in Warwickshire to the best takeaway in Rugby, if you need some quick eating and you enjoy pizzas and kebabs, then you can’t go wrong with a flying visit to Lazzoli on Bilton Road. Prices are more than reasonable, and the pizzas are some of the best you’ll ever have – and that includes far fancier establishments.

Our next pick might sound like a novelty but On The Rocks – the restaurant where you can cook your food on a superheated volcanic stone plate – is an excellent dining experience, as well as one you won’t find anywhere else. Your volcanic stone comes to your table at 440ºC, so mind your fingers while you sizzle your steaks on it. The prices are reasonable and the wine list is good, while the restaurant itself is simple but stylish and boasts a great location on Albert Street.

In the village of Clifton-upon-Dunsmore, five minutes from our Rugby North (M6 Jct 1) hotel, you’ll find one of the best gastropubs on the planet. The Bull Inn dates back to the 19th century and is well known for its excellent homemade food using only the finest local ingredients. In the winter months, you can warm yourself by any one of three log fires, while in the summer there’s a delightful courtyard garden where you can sit, sipping on a pint of the good stuff, while trying to eat your way through their leviathan portions of fish and chips.

Transport yourself from the heart of England to the jalapeno-loving world of Mexico with a visit to La Casa Loco in the Churchside Arcade. It’s the perfect place to go if you just want a casual evening’s meal. The decor is colourful, the atmosphere is lively, the service is friendly, and the food is fantastic. It’s authentic Mexican and Cajun cuisine from an independent restaurant that’s been a local favourite for more than 25 years, so they well and truly know their way around a taco.

One last honourable mention goes to the Curry Club on the Railway Terrace. It doesn’t look like much from the outside, but don’t judge a book by its cover – this little restaurant whips up the best Indian cuisine this side of Mumbai.It’s a cliche, but we’ve saved the best until last. If you want high-quality bistro eats then make your way to La Petite Gare. It’s a lovely little neighbourhood restaurant opposite Kidderminster Station with the best chateaubriand in the business. Having said that, don’t let us sway your decision; everything on the menu is delicious. The prices are reasonable considering the exceptional eating and first-rate service.

If you’re on the hunt for a cuppa, or somewhere to grab a bite to eat during the daytime, Café Coco is a cracking option. Your brunch options are absolute eggcellent, the full English is a beauty, the superfood salads are the perfect healthy option, while there’s also a plethora of burgers if you just don’t care. It’s also fully licensed if you fancy something a little stronger than tea and coffee.

Planning on paying a visit to the Malt Kiln Farm Shop to pick up some of the finest local produce in the area? Be sure to pop into Rebecca’s Kitchen, the onsite café where you can munch through breakfast and lunchtime menus featuring all the favourites. There’s also ever-changing daily specials ready to tantalise your taste buds. On Sundays, Rebecca and co also put on a corking roast.

Next up are a couple of the most stylish cafés in Rugby. Three on Clifton Road is focussed on refining the best of French and British food – with flourishes and influences from around the world. The breakfast menu is a blend of Britain’s favourites and American guilty pleasures. For lunch, Three goes all French bistro with a wonderful menu of tasty, easy eating. On Fridays, there’s also a supper club with an ever-changing menu, should you want to visit later in the day.

In the summer months when the bifold doors open out onto Henry Street and the sun floods into the café, Oliv can be an absolute delight. It’s a stylish café filled with charming furniture and plants. The food is equally as lovely to look at and tastes as good too.

Last but not least, if you’re looking for some of the best cakes in the business, head down to Papillon Café Bar in the Churchside Arcade. If you’re lucky, you’ll catch the scones straight after they come out of the oven. In terms of drinks, Papillon is best known for its hot chocolates – the oreo one being a particularly popular guilty pleasure – but it’s also fully licensed if you fancy a glass of wine or a cocktail.