Nestled in the heart of the charming town of Bradford on Avon, Wiltshire, lies a culinary treasure that locals and visitors alike can’t stop raving about: Fat Fowl. This cozy restaurant and café on Silver Street has carved out a special place in the community with its commitment to locally sourced ingredients, warm atmosphere, and innovative menus. Whether you’re a foodie seeking a memorable meal or a family looking for a welcoming spot to relax, Fat Fowl delivers an experience that’s as delightful as the town itself. Having visited this gem during a weekend getaway, I can personally attest to its charm and quality—let me take you on a journey through what makes Fat Fowl a must-visit destination.
A Taste of Bradford on Avon’s Culinary Scene
Bradford on Avon, with its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and serene River Avon, is a quintessential English town that feels like stepping into a storybook. Known for its vibrant community and independent businesses, it’s no surprise that Fat Fowl fits right in. The restaurant embodies the town’s ethos of quality, creativity, and local pride. From the moment you step through the door, you’re greeted with an inviting ambiance that blends rustic charm with modern flair. The light, airy interior and friendly staff make it a place where you instantly feel at home.
During my visit, I was struck by how Fat Fowl captures the essence of Bradford on Avon’s food culture. The town is known for its farm-to-table ethos, and Fat Fowl takes this seriously, sourcing ingredients from nearby producers to ensure freshness and support the local economy. Whether it’s the creamy goat’s cheese from a nearby farm or the seasonal vegetables that change with the seasons, every dish tells a story of Wiltshire’s rich agricultural heritage.
The Fat Fowl Experience: Food That Warms the Soul
What sets Fat Fowl apart is its dedication to “simple, robust, and locally sourced seasonal food,” as once described by a former head chef in a 2006 interview with the Swindon Advertiser. This philosophy still holds true today. The menu is a celebration of British cuisine with a modern twist, offering everything from hearty brunches to elegant dinners and a standout tapas selection. During my visit, I couldn’t resist trying their tapas, inspired by a glowing review from a local blogger who praised the king prawns in garlic oil and the Spanish tortilla.
The tapas menu is a highlight, especially for those who love sharing plates and savoring a variety of flavors. I ordered the charcuterie platter with rocket salad, marinated olives, and the smoked salmon and gruyere fishcakes. Each dish was a revelation—the fishcakes were perfectly crispy on the outside, tender within, and paired beautifully with a tangy tartare sauce. The charcuterie was a generous spread of cured meats, showcasing the quality of local produce. My partner opted for the venison burger with red onion jam and tzatziki, which was juicy, flavorful, and a testament to the chef’s skill in balancing bold flavors.
For families, Fat Fowl’s upstairs space, known as The Roost Family Café, is a game-changer. It’s a child-friendly haven with a play area that lets kids have fun while parents enjoy their meal. I saw families laughing and relaxing, with toddlers happily entertained upstairs while their parents savored coffee and pancakes below. It’s this thoughtful touch that makes Fat Fowl more than just a restaurant—it’s a community hub.
A Menu That Evolves with the Seasons
One of the things I love most about Fat Fowl is its ever-changing menu. The lunch offerings shift daily, ensuring that even regular visitors like myself are always in for a surprise. The dinner menu, updated monthly, keeps things fresh while staying true to the restaurant’s focus on seasonal ingredients. During my visit in autumn, the menu featured dishes like gnocchi with Dolcelatte, walnuts, and spinach—a creamy, nutty delight that felt like a warm hug on a chilly day. The rosemary panna cotta for dessert was an unexpected treat, its subtle herbaceous note perfectly complementing the rich creaminess.
The tapas selection, available on certain evenings, is a nod to global flavors while staying rooted in local ingredients. I was impressed by the attention to detail, from the crusty bread served with the prawns to the vibrant presentation of the mixed fish platter. It’s clear that the chefs at Fat Fowl take pride in their craft, ensuring every dish is both visually appealing and bursting with flavor.
A Personal Connection to Fat Fowl
As someone who’s spent years exploring the UK’s food scene, I’ve learned to appreciate places that balance quality with approachability. Fat Fowl does this effortlessly. On my visit, I struck up a conversation with a server who shared that the restaurant’s team is passionate about creating a welcoming space for everyone—whether you’re popping in for a quick coffee or settling in for a three-course meal. This passion shines through in every aspect of the experience, from the carefully curated wine list to the friendly banter with the staff.
I also learned about Fat Fowl’s history of resilience. In 2013, the restaurant faced a devastating flood that forced it to close temporarily, as reported by the Wiltshire Times. Yet, the team bounced back, installing new drainage systems and reopening with even greater determination. This grit and dedication to the community are part of what makes Fat Fowl so special. It’s not just a place to eat; it’s a testament to the spirit of Bradford on Avon.
Why Fat Fowl Stands Out
In a town filled with excellent dining options, Fat Fowl holds its own thanks to its unique offerings. The Roost Family Café is a standout feature, making it one of the few restaurants in the area where parents can relax while their kids play safely. The outdoor seating area, perfect for sunny days, offers a peaceful spot to watch the world go by while sipping a cappuccino or enjoying a cocktail. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability, with locally sourced ingredients and eco-conscious practices, also resonates with today’s diners who care about where their food comes from.
The deli next door, Le Petit Coq, is another gem. It’s stocked with artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and other local delicacies, perfect for creating your own picnic or bringing a taste of Bradford on Avon home. I couldn’t resist picking up a jar of apple chutney, which paired beautifully with the chicken liver parfait I tried later.
Catering and Community Engagement
Beyond its restaurant, Fat Fowl Kitchens is a go-to for event catering in Bradford on Avon. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or private party, their team crafts bespoke menus that showcase the same quality and creativity found in the restaurant. A review on Restaurant Guru praised their catering for a wake, noting the “excellent, tasty, and hot” Brazilian chicken and Spanish chicken and chorizo casserole served to 65 guests. This versatility makes Fat Fowl a cornerstone of the town’s culinary scene, capable of elevating any occasion with their signature flavors.
The restaurant also engages with the community through initiatives like The Roost’s availability for private hire on Sunday afternoons for christenings and family gatherings. This community focus is evident in their efforts to address local needs, such as the 2018 proposal to convert a nearby shop into a children’s nursery, as reported by the Wiltshire Times. While the plan faced challenges, it showed Fat Fowl’s commitment to supporting families in Bradford on Avon.
Tips for Visiting Fat Fowl
If you’re planning a visit, here are a few tips based on my experience:
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Timing: Fat Fowl is open seven days a week, with lunch served from 12-2:30 PM and dinner on Thursday through Saturday from 7-9 PM. The Roost Family Café is open from 10:30 AM, with children’s menus available until 5:30 PM.
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Reservations: While walk-ins are welcome, booking ahead is wise, especially for dinner or tapas nights, as the restaurant can get busy.
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Try the Tapas: If you’re visiting on a Thursday, don’t miss the tapas menu. The king prawns and Spanish tortilla are must-tries.
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Family-Friendly: Bring the kids to The Roost for a stress-free dining experience. The play area is a lifesaver for parents.
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Explore the Deli: Pop into Le Petit Coq for local treats to take home. The apple chutney and artisanal cheeses are fantastic.
Why Fat Fowl is a Must-Visit
Fat Fowl isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a love letter to Bradford on Avon’s food culture and community spirit. Its dedication to local ingredients, creative menus, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a standout in Wiltshire’s dining scene. Whether you’re a local looking for a new favorite spot or a visitor exploring the town’s charms, Fat Fowl offers an experience that’s both memorable and authentic.
My time at Fat Fowl left me with a full stomach and a happy heart. From the warm welcome to the final bite of rosemary panna cotta, every moment felt special. It’s the kind of place where you can linger over coffee, share stories with friends, or simply soak in the ambiance of a town that feels like home. So, next time you’re in Bradford on Avon, make a beeline for Fat Fowl—you won’t be disappointed.
