Recommended places to eat at Cheltenham Music Festival

Music fans rejoice! Cheltenham’s annual celebration of classical music returns to Cheltenham from the 6 to 13 July for its 79th year! This year, the festival promises to spark musical curiosity with a variety of musical performances from leading international artists and young up-and-coming talent, taking place across the town.

Not only that, but the festival is a great opportunity to indulge in Cheltenham's incredible food offerings. Home to a wide range of places to eat, from fine dining restaurants to laid-back cafes and independent hidden gems, Cheltenham is truly a foodie’s paradise.

Our food and drink guides share comprehensive lists of over 140 Cheltenham restaurants, 60 Cheltenham cafes and 60 pubs and bars in Cheltenham. To narrow the choices down for you, we’ve shared our recommended places to eat at the various Music Festival venues. 

Restaurants and cafes near Pittville Pump Room

One of the festival’s primary venues, the magnificent Grade 1 listed Regency Pittville Pump Room is the perfect place to step back in time and enjoy the splendour of classical music.

The Heritage Café sits on the doorstep of the Pump Room, serving a range of hot and cold food, from coffee and cakes to sausage rolls and wraps the café is in prime position for a leisurely pit stop in between shows.

On the outskirts of Pittville Park, you have The Coconut Tree, for laid-back, tapas-style Sri Lankan dining and colourful ‘Island Cocotails’. Meanwhile, those wanting to dine in style should head to No. 38 The Park, for seasonal British fare that promises to be as spectacular as the grandeur of Cheltenham itself.

A short walk from Pittville Park is The Cheltenham Brewery Quarter. Bursting at the seams with brilliant restaurants, there is something to suit all tastes. From crispy, cheesy pizzas at PizzaExpress and Prezzo, delicious burgers from HubBox and Five Guys, and a taste of the East at Indian street food restaurant Mowgli and vibrant Vietnamese eatery Pho. Or, for something different, why not head to The Alchemist for classic dishes with a theatrical twist?

Restaurants and cafes near Cheltenham Town Hall

Located in the heart of the town centre, on the edge of Imperial Gardens and the Promenade, the Cheltenham Town Hall will see the likes of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra grace its hall with music come festival week.

The Town Hall is primely positioned to branch out and explore the town centre’s collection of cafes and restaurants. Starting at the Quadrangle, situated directly beside the Town Hall, we have Italian restaurant and pizzeria BOSCO and Şef Steakhouse. While at the top of the building sits Cheltenham’s only rooftop restaurant and bar, The Nook on Five. Offering patrons a stunning bird’s eye view of Cheltenham while they dine.

Head down the Promenade towards the High Street and you will find Memsahib's Lounge, a hidden Indian-inspired gem tucked below Neptune Apartments. Across the road is the popular pizza restaurant Franco Manca, while the colourful Filipino restaurant Pyesta is just around the corner from that.

Venture the other way from Imperial Gardens towards Montpellier Gardens and the district of Montpellier for a plethora of stylish eats and chic boutiques. You can’t miss the iconic Ivy Montpellier Brasserie, a stunning grade I-listed building, which features a private dining room and bar. Just a few doors down from the Ivy you can find All Bar One, perfect for a post-dinner tipple, and The Chip Shed, for no-fuss award-winning fish and chips you can enjoy in the park.

There are many independently run eateries in Montpellier, we wish we could mention them all! A few highlights include Chaplais Kitchen, serving fresh pizza and pasta, spare ribs and salad bowls. Clementine, an artisanal café serving delicious coffee, homemade cakes, breakfast & lunch, and Indian Voojan, a contemporary curry house sure to delight. 

Restaurants and cafes near St Gregory’s Church

Located on the corner of St James’ Square and Clarence Street, St Gregory’s Church will shine a spotlight on the BBC's 2022 Young Strings Musician of the Year, Jaren Ziegler.

Located on the corner of St James’ Square and Clarence Street, St Gregory’s Church will shine a spotlight on the BBC's 2022 Young Strings Musician of the Year, Jaren Ziegler.

The Church is also well placed to explore some of the delightful restaurants the lower high street has to offer. Directly opposite the church is The Bottle of Sauce, a trendy pub serving up tasty wings, burgers and pizzas, while moving up towards The Wilson will lead you to MUSE Brasserie, Cheltenham’s number three-rated restaurant on Trip Advisor.

Head down the high street past the Brewery Quarter and you will stumble upon two cool little eateries serving up premium dishes at budget prices. 288 Bar & Wok noodle bar, winner of the Observer Food Monthly Best Cheap Eats 2019, and Ginger and Garlic, specialising in tasty Korean cuisine.    

Wherever you choose to eat during Cheltenham Music Festival we wish you bon appétit!

For more food inspiration, visit - Cheltenham restaurants, Cheltenham cafes, pubs and bars in Cheltenham.

Visitors, you may find our map of Cheltenham handy.