Places to eat in Bangor

In recent years, Bangor’s food scene has undergone a serious glow-up. Trendy eateries and quirky coffee spots are popping up everywhere, turning this once-overlooked city into a buzzing hub for food lovers.

What makes it even more interesting is the dynamic between Bangor and Bangor Uchaf (Upper Bangor) While Bangor’s city centre is full of old-school charm and bustling with shops, pubs, and restaurants, Upper Bangor has become the cool, foodie hangout with its sleek cafés, artisan pizza joints, and buzzing coffee houses.  These two neighbourhoods are just a short walk apart, but they offer two distinct vibes – together, they give Bangor its unique flavour.

Tucked down the lane and up the steps, Blue Sky Café is a place you stumble upon and always revisit. With its comfy sofas, chilled-out, and friendly buzz, this café feels like a home away from home – but with way better food.

The coffee? Locally roasted by Poblado, it’s rich, smooth, and pairs perfectly with their legendary cakes, which many say are some of the best in the North West. Whether you’re treating yourself to a gooey chocolate brownie or a slice of their decadent carrot cake, you’re in for a sweet surprise.

The menu doesn’t stop at dessert, though. From hearty breakfasts and wholesome lunches to vegan and veggie delights, everything is fresh, seasonal, and made with a lot of love and care. Their full Welsh breakfast or freshly baked quiches are always a hit, and the laid-back atmosphere makes it the perfect spot for a casual lunch.

But it’s not just a café – Blue Sky doubles as an event space. Regular live music nights turn the place into a cute concert venue, making it a hub for Bangor’s creative scene. Whether you’re catching a local band, sipping craft beer in their downstairs taproom, or just lounging with a coffee, this café is an experience as much as it is a meal.

With its quirky charm and unbeatable cakes, Blue Sky Cafe is Bangor’s ultimate chill-out spot. Go for the coffee, stay for the live music.

Here’s the thing about Jones’ Pizza: once you’ve had a slice, you’ll be ruined for all other pizzas. Forever. Seriously. 

Rich and Char started out slinging their Neapolitan-style beauties from a food truck, and the locals couldn’t get enough. Fast forward, and now they’ve got a permanent home on Holyhead Road, Bangor – and it’s a slice of perfezione. 

The crust. Puffy, perfectly blistered, and that magical balance of chewy and crispy. The toppings? Always fresh, seasonal, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re sticking to a classic Margherita (a masterpiece in its simplicity) or going rogue with their Ragu dy nain (Ragu your nan pizza) – yes, it’s as comforting and delicious as it sounds – you’re in for a treat. 

But it’s not just about eating here – it’s the whole vibe. Casual, cosy, and welcoming, it’s the kind of spot where you’ll find yourself staying longer than planned, beer in hand saying “just one more slice” (and then another, and maybe another). 

Oh, and here’s the kicker – you can actually become a pizza pro with Jones Pizza’s pizza-making course. Learn the secret to that perfect dough and walk away with the skills to impress at your next dinner party. And because Rich and Char know how to do things right, you’ll leave with a new wardrobe too – we’re talking branded caps, T-shirts, and maybe even a box of pizza for later (because self-care).

With its chic muted tones, sleek modern fixtures, and instantly recognisable pink takeaway cups, Reubens Coffee House, has quickly become a go-to spot for locals. Always bustling with activity, it’s clear why it’s such a hit – a stylish haven serving up fantastic coffee and fresh bites.

Whether you’re grabbing breakfast, catching up on emails, or meeting friends for a chat, Reubens strikes the perfect balance between laid-back comfort and understated elegance.

Kickstart your morning with one of their fresh, chewy bagels, loaded with your choice of fillings, or treat yourself to their star attraction: the Reuben sandwich. Packed with tender pastrami, Swiss cheese, tangy sauerkraut, and a zingy dressing, it’s the kind of sandwich you’ll be thinking about long after the last bite. Pair it with a silky flat white or a creamy hot chocolate, and you’re onto a winner.

Sweet tooth? You’re in luck. Their pastries and bakes are the stuff of legends – fresh, fully loaded, and utterly irresistible. Pro tip: get there early because these goodies don’t stick around for long. For us, there’s no better spot to sip a coffee, nibble on a cruffin, and watch the world go by (it's great spot for people watching).

For food that warms the heart and feeds the soul, Kyffin Café Deli a short walk from the high street, is the place to be. As Bangor’s first vegetarian and vegan café, this charming spot has been serving up fresh, wholesome goodness since 2005 – and it’s still a beloved favourite.

The daily-changing menu offers five main meals inspired by flavors from around the world, all freshly made on-site. Each dish is a vibrant mix of taste, texture, and color, beautifully displayed behind the glass counter to tempt you. And don’t forget the sweet treats – their homemade cookies are legendary. Talk of the town. The café’s homely, rustic décor, complete with antiques and quirky touches, makes it feel like my nain’s ( nan’s) house. Kyffin also hosts events and traditional folk music nights. So you can eat your cookie to the sound of banjo strings. 

Anka Turkish Bistro & Cafe will whisk you away to the heart of Turkey. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by vibrant, colorful décor, bold artwork, oversized trees that bring the space to life, and even swinging chairs that add a playful touch. It’s a feast for the eyes before you’ve even taken a bite. And oh, the food! Breakfast here is a treat – Turkish-style eggs served with thick, fluffy bread that’s perfect for dipping. At lunchtime, the mezze platters are pure joy: creamy hummus, smokey baba ghanoush, dolmas, and briny olives paired with warm, pillowy pita. Sharing is optional but highly encouraged!

In the evenings, Anka takes it up a notch. It’s nothing short of spectacular. Imagine platters piled high with tender, flavourful meats cooked over an open fire, served alongside fragrant rice and fresh salads. Some nights, you’ll be treated to a dazzling display of belly dancers, fire throwers, and entertainers, making dinner here an experience to remember.

Don’t forget dessert – a slice of their sticky, flaky baklava paired with strong Turkish coffee is the perfect finale for your meal.

At the very end of Garth Pier, with breathtaking views of the Menai Strait and Anglesey, sits Torna a Surriento –  Bangor’s oldest Italian eateries, serving up traditional dishes that transport you straight to the Amalfi Coast.

If you’re looking for the perfect date night spot (speaking from experience here), this is the place.  The perfect date night - sharing a bottle of wine over freshly made pasta, indulging in rich tiramisu for dessert, and then walking hand-in-hand along the Victorian pier as the sun sets. Romantic, right?

The food is the real star, though. Torna a Surriento nails the Italian classics – think perfectly cooked pasta, pizzas fresh out of the oven. Who needs Naples? Whether you’re planning a romantic evening, or just want to treat yourself to some seriously good Italian food, Torna a Surriento is where it’s at. Trust me, this place is the amore of Bangor. 

One of the best things about Bangor is how it mixes the old with the new. You’ve got places like Torna a Surriento, steeped in tradition, and then you’ve got Upper Bangor with its modern foodie stops. It’s a city that’s constantly evolving while staying true to its roots.