The Shropshire places locals rate the highest, from Shrewsbury independents to country pubs worth the drive.
Shropshire punches well above its weight for food. The county town of Shrewsbury is packed with independents, while the surrounding market towns and villages hide some of the best country pubs in the Midlands. These are the places locals rate most highly.
Shrewsbury
The independent food scene here is the best in the county. For dinner, Umai Sushi & Grill and Itadakizen lead the way for Japanese, CSONS is a much-loved seasonal small-plates restaurant, and The Walrus is the spot for a special occasion. Okra and Kanu Poke fly the flag for outstanding vegan food, while The Meatball Shack and Bobby's Tacos are firm casual favourites.
For coffee and brunch, Shrewsbury is spoilt: House Coffee Co., The Condor, Oath Coffee and the Iron & Fire roastery are all genuinely excellent.
Oswestry
A quietly brilliant food town. The Old Coffee Pot Tea Rooms is a local institution, Shrooma does superb brunch, and Amber's Pizza Co. is the go-to for a proper pizza.
Ludlow
Famously food-obsessed. Among the many highlights, sourCed in pretty Quality Square turns out some of the best pizza in the south of the county.
Telford and Wellington
Sofia's Cafe in Wellington is one of the highest-rated cafes anywhere in Shropshire, Park Street Kitchen brings brilliant Caribbean food, and Restaurant 1840 is a reliable special-occasion choice.
Country pubs worth the drive
This is where Shropshire really shines. The Mill at Leighton, The Bear Inn at Hodnet, the Bottle and Glass Inn at Picklescott, The Cross Keys at Kinnerley, the Wheatsheaf Inn near Newport and the historic All Nations Inn at Coalport are all destinations in their own right. In Shifnal, The Kings Yard Micropub is a gem for real ale.
And don't miss
Jemima's Kitchen in Church Stretton and the Cherry Tree Cafe in Ellesmere are perfect for a post-walk treat.
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