Bristolians – if you’ve ever wandered up Colston Street, chances are you’ve clocked the industrial-chic façade of Zero Degrees—a microbrewery-meets-restaurant perched on the hill staring down the famous Christmas Steps. They’ve been quietly (and sometimes not-so-quietly) serving up fresh beer and fun nights out since 2004.
The Bristol branch is one of four in total (including our new home, Cardiff) and this year, Zero Degrees is celebrating 25 years since the original site opened in Blackheath, London. The last decade has seen challenge after challenge for independent hospitality businesses, so to be thriving at 25 – well, that is pretty impressive.
First impressions
I’ve been to the Bristol Zero Degrees many times over the years, having lived just around the corner when we first moved there in 2016. The building is at odds with those around it in the old town. Think exposed steel, high ceilings, and three (yes, three!) balconies. It’s giving urban jungle meets industrial brewery, and I’m here for it. On our recent visit, we arrived just as the sun was setting, and the place was quietly buzzing with after-work drinkers.
The drinks
Most of you who know Zero Degrees will know about their mango beer. It’s been on their taps forever and is my go to whenever I visit. It’s brewed on site and has a bit of a cult following. We tried a few other beers though – including their black lager which is smooth and rich (a nice contrast to the lighter, fruity mango beer). We also tried their pilsner and a hoppy American pale ale which were both very drinkable.
Behind the scenes
This time, we were lucky enough to get a little peek behind the scenes thanks to the lovely GM Bruno, who gave us a tour of the brewery. It’s always fascinating to see where the magic happens – all those shiny tanks and the smell of hops in the air! Through the glass screens, you can watch the brewing process unfold while sipping on something fresh from the tap.
We tried a few of their beers and were especially taken with the Citranaut and Sucker Punch – both bursting with tropical, citrusy notes and perfect for easy summer drinking. And of course, we couldn’t resist a nostalgic pint of the mango beer. Some things never change – and we’re glad they don’t!
The food
Honestly, I’d never considered Zero Degrees as a serious contender for dinner. More somewhere you might order food if you’re hungry whilst on the beers. Turns out I was wrong because their food is great! The menu is centred around pizza, and with a big wood-fired oven and open kitchen, you know you’re in for a treat.
Here’s what we tucked into:
- Sausage, nduja, chilli & hot honey pizza – spicy, sweet, and utterly addictive
- Hot honey fried chicken pizza sandwich – yes, you read that right. More on this further down
- Frickles and fried jalapeños with blue cheese mayo – crunchy, tangy, and the perfect beer snack
- Loaded fries with crispy pepperoni and cheesy sauce – gooey, salty, and impossible to stop eating
- Tiramisu brownie – rich and fudgy with a boozy coffee kick
- Lemon torta with crème fraîche – light, zesty, and a lovely way to finish
While everything was delicious, the pizza sandwich was the standout and a must order. At just £11, it’s a total bargain – stuffed with crispy fried chicken, rocket, pink pickled onions, and blue cheese sauce, all sandwiched between two slices of pizza. It’s like an open-ended calzone and we are here for it. Even better? It’s part of their amazing value lunch deal – £5 for a pizza sandwich & a side or £10 with a pint. Yes please!
Cosy vibes & great service
The space itself is split-level, with plenty of cosy corners for date nights or catch-ups, and larger areas perfect for parties and get-togethers. We had brilliant service from Jackie and Bruno, who made us feel right at home and both are regular faces there so I’m sure you’ll see them when you visit.
There are four Zerodegrees locations across the UK – Bristol, Cardiff, Reading, and Blackheath – so if you’re near one, definitely pop in. Whether you’re a beer lover, a pizza fiend, or just after a fun night out, it’s a winner all round.
Whether you’re a craft beer connoisseur or just in it for the pizza, Zero Degrees is well worth a visit. It’s got character, charm, and a menu that delivers on flavour. And with 25 years under their belt, they’ve clearly mastered the art of good food and great beer.
Would I go back? Absolutely. Next time, I’m trying the Mango Beer sorbet. Yes, that’s a thing.
*We were invited by Zero Degrees to join them for food and drink and did not pay for anything. However, as always, I have shared my own, honest opinions!
