Lapin

French in flavour and heart, yet resolutely Bristolian in attitude, Lapin is the latest opening from the team behind BANK in Totterdown.

Housed on Wapping Wharf, part of Bristol‘s historic floating harbour, the compact bistro is building a notable reputation for its casual and contemporary take on classic French cooking and Gallic vibes. Its other claim to fame is a fabulous wine list of over 60 French bottles available by the glass, which may well be the best of its type in the region.

Inside, Lapin nails the laid-back bistro aesthetic: chalkboard menus, sage green walls, wooden tables and wine bottles lining the shelves.

A daily prix fixe menu offers good value for a casual lunch, but the full à la carte encourages indulgence. Discover dishes such as confit duck leg with spring cassoulet and kielbasa, pork schnitzel with peas, bacon and morels, and roast duck crown à l’orange – served to share – with bigarade sauce and braised chicory.

Chef-owner Jack Briggs-Horan (also exec chef at BANK) draws inspiration from his childhood holidays in France and crafts his seasonally inspired menus using ingredients from trusted local growers, farmers, butchers and fishmongers. Produce from the team’s own allotment on the outskirts of Bath also appears regularly.

Trencherman’s tip

The epic wine list is grouped by style to encourage guests to broaden their horizons. Unsure where to start? Ask for restaurant manager Carole Petitbois, the palate behind the wine selection.