AARAN RESTAURANT AND DESSERTS
37 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QD, United Kingdom+44 117 452 5143
About This Place
Nestled in the heart of Bristol’s vibrant Stokes Croft area, AARAN Restaurant and Desserts offers an authentic taste of Arabic cuisine that perfectly balances tradition with a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere. This cozy yet lively eatery specializes in delivering rich, flavorful dishes that transport diners straight to the Middle East with every bite.
The menu, though thoughtfully curated rather than extensive, shines with regional favorites that are beautifully crafted. Start your culinary journey with their comforting Lentil Soup, a warm hug in a bowl, or indulge in the iconic Lamb Mandi—a perfectly tender, aromatic rice dish slow-cooked to perfection, celebrated by many for its melt-in-the-mouth textures and bold spices. For those seeking a taste of street food classics, the Mixed Shawarma and Chicken Shawarma with Hummus offer a delightful harmony of smoky, spiced meat paired with creamy, tangy accouterments.
One cannot miss the tempting variety of Manakeesh, traditional Arabic flatbreads that come with delightful toppings ranging from Lamb Bi Ajeen to fresh, vibrant Spinach with Mohamara. Each bite offers a crisp, flavorful experience that balances freshness with robust Middle Eastern flavors. The hot meze (appetizers) like crispy Fried Cauliflower and savory Sujuk add layers of texture and taste, perfect for sharing or savoring solo.
Sweet endings at AARAN are equally memorable. Their signature Knafeh—a luscious, syrup-soaked dessert layered with cheese—is a decadent finish that leaves a lasting impression, while fruit-forward options like chilled, juicy watermelon provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
The dining experience at AARAN is made even more special by the staff’s warmth and attentive service, as echoed by delighted guests who praise the inviting ambiance that feels like a charming home away from home. Whether enjoying a casual takeaway or a leisurely meal inside, the atmosphere blends cozy intimacy with vibrant cultural flair.
While some diners have noted a subtle ambiguity between traditional and contemporary interpretations, the overall consensus reflects a passion for authentic Arabic flavors delivered with heart and honesty. The dishes burst with rich spices, fresh ingredients, and meticulous care, making AARAN a standout destination for anyone eager to explore the depth of Middle Eastern cuisine in Bristol.
For those craving a culinary escape that is both comforting and exciting, AARAN Restaurant and Desserts promises an experience that delights all the senses—from the fragrant spices to the satisfying textures and the sincere hospitality.
Contact:
37 Stokes Croft, Bristol BS1 3QD, United Kingdom
Phone: +44 117 452 5143
Opening Hours
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Monday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM -
Tuesday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM -
Wednesday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM -
Thursday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM -
Friday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM -
Saturday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM -
Sunday
06:00 AM - 01:00 AM
Map & Directions
Visitor Reviews
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Evgeny Noi
1 month agoOverall a good restaurant. The menu isn’t very extensive, and like some other reviewers, I found it a bit unclear how the restaurant positions itself—whether it's aiming for traditional or more contemporary fare. I ordered the lamb kofta, but it wasn’t quite to my taste. The meat was dense and resembled a kebab, and I wasn’t sure if that was the intended style.
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Adamu Suaibou
1 month agoIf you're craving authentic Arabic cuisine in Bristol, **AARAN Restaurant and Desserts** is the place to be! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with a warm welcome that set the tone for an unforgettable dining experience. The Lamb Mendi was absolutely incredible—flavorful, tender, and perfectly cooked. The portion sizes were generous, and the price was incredibly reasonable considering the quality of the food. The desserts were the perfect end to a perfect meal—sweet, delicate, and just the right amount of indulgence. We also enjoyed some delightful tea that complemented the entire experience. What truly stood out, though, was the outstanding customer service. The staff were attentive, friendly, and genuinely eager to make our experience memorable. The restaurant itself was spotless and had a clean, refreshing atmosphere that made the dining experience even more enjoyable. I wholeheartedly recommend **AARAN** to anyone in Bristol. Whether you're a fan of Arabic food or just looking to try something new, this restaurant should be at the top of your list. I’ll definitely be returning, and I look forward to bringing some friends along to share in this fantastic culinary experience! No parking though so park on the near by street parking and walk
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Shafiq Ahmad Khan
2 month agoI recently had dinner at Aaran Restaurant and it was an absolutely wonderful experience! From the moment we walked in, the staff made us feel welcome with their warm and attentive service. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, perfect for a relaxing evening. The food was exceptional—everything was beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. “The grilled chicken was cooked to perfection, and their vegetable pickle was delicious.”] The menu had a great variety, so there was something for us. Overall, it was a memorable dining experience. I would highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for delicious food, excellent service, and a pleasant atmosphere. I can’t wait to come back!
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Abdul Muhimen Jahan
2 month agoSuch an amazing experience here loved their Mandi absolutely delicious, like the soup as well, was visiting Bristol for two days, will be back end of October whole 3days meal will order from you guys
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Habs I
3 month agoTook mum here and the food was absolutely delicious and did not disappoint. The service was beyond our expectation and atmosphere was beautiful and took us back home. Definitely will recommend and go back for more.
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imy candelaria
4 month agoLovely and authentic Middle Eastern food.. staff are nice, helpful, and friendly. The price is very good and the portion is massive. We will surely come back.
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Florian Varga
4 month agoOmg this place has been seriously slept on!! Tried it last night after years of neglect, and by far my new favourite place in stokes.. Incredibly delicious, and even re-dipped my fries for me THEY PUT THE KEBAB SALAD IN THE BURGER
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