5 of the Best Independent Food and Drink Venues Near Chester’s City Walls

Chester’s famous city walls form a complete circuit around the historic city centre, stretching for almost two miles.

As you follow the walls, you will pass Roman ruins, beautiful gardens, historic landmarks and some of Chester’s best independent places to eat and drink. From relaxed tapas and French classics to locally brewed beer and modern British dining, there is plenty to discover just a few steps from the route.

Here are five independent Chester food and drink venues worth visiting during your next walk around the city walls.

1. Porta

Close to the Northgate entrance to Chester’s city walls, Porta is one of the city’s best-known independent tapas bars.

Its relaxed menu features Spanish favourites including patatas bravas, tortilla, calamari and a regularly changing selection of small plates. Add a glass of sangria or Spanish wine and it is easy to see why Porta remains such a popular Chester destination.

The atmospheric, softly lit interior creates a cosy setting, while the outside seating is ideal when the weather is on your side.

Porta operates on a walk-in basis and does not take reservations, so arriving early is recommended during busy periods.

2. Chez Jules

Just across the road from Porta, Chez Jules has been serving French-inspired food in Chester for more than two decades.

The restaurant is known for its welcoming atmosphere, dependable service and classic French dishes. Whether you are stopping for lunch, dinner or one of its regular special menus, Chez Jules offers a relaxed and characterful dining experience.

Its popular Tuesday offer currently includes two courses and a bottle of French house red or white wine per person for a fixed price. As offers may change, it is worth checking the restaurant’s website before visiting.

3. Huxley’s

Continue around the walls towards the Eastgate Clock and you will find Huxley’s, a small independent café and bar occupying one of Chester’s most distinctive locations.

Visitors can enjoy locally sourced pies, cakes, scones, ice cream, coffee and a selection of locally brewed Chester beers.

Outside seating provides an excellent place to watch the activity around Eastgate Street. Alternatively, head inside and look through the venue’s unusual porthole-style window for a memorable view over the historic city centre.

Its location beside the Eastgate Clock makes Huxley’s a convenient stopping point during a walk around the walls.

4. Artezzan

Near Chester’s Roman Amphitheatre and Roman Gardens, step away from the walls onto Pepper Street and you will discover several excellent independent restaurants.

Artezzan is a modern Mediterranean restaurant with an impressive glass frontage and a spacious, open-plan interior.

Its seasonally changing menus draw inspiration from across the Mediterranean, accompanied by an extensive choice of wines, cocktails and handcrafted drinks.

The contemporary surroundings and lively atmosphere make it a good choice for lunch, dinner or drinks after exploring the nearby Roman attractions.

5. Chef’s Table

Also located on Pepper Street Row, Chef’s Table is one of Chester’s most highly regarded independent restaurants.

The restaurant serves modern British food using seasonal ingredients, including produce sourced from its own farm. Diners can choose from carefully created à la carte, tasting and lunch menus, with knowledgeable staff available to offer wine recommendations.

Chef’s Table is an excellent option for anyone looking to finish their Chester city walls walk with a more refined dining experience.

For something more informal, Twenty Eight can also be found within the same Pepper Street Row location, offering relaxed food, coffee and drinks.