718 reviews
#2 of 25 Restaurants in Bourton-on-the-Water££ - £££, British, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options+44 1451 810564+ Add websiteImprove this listing
Hours
Sun
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
Mon
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
Tue
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
Wed
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
Thu
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
Fri
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
Sat
12:00 - 16:0018:00 - 22:30
What is Travellers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travellers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travellers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Ratings and reviews
4.5
Travellers' Choice 2024
RATINGS
Food
Service
Value
Atmosphere
Food and ambience
British, Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Does this restaurant have a full bar?
Details
About
Theo & Sebastian who are brothers, started Smiths in the middle of a pandemic! We are seriously passionate about patties and are based in Bourton-On-The-water, also known as ‘Venice of the Cotswolds’. Our restaurant sits circa 30 guests making it a small, exclusive place to come and eat. Since opening, we have made it our mission to get our hands on the best possible ingredients. We have lent towards a company in South Wales for our meat. We made this decision for a number of reasons. Firstly, all the meat we use comes from ex-dairy cows providing fantastic flavour. We also use dry aged beef, which marries up with our strong, unique flavour combinations giving you the ultimate bite! We cant forget about or delightful buns, which are handmade daily by a wonderful local baker. All the flour used for our buns is made up of Cotswold flour from local farmers. We also consider ourselves experts in cocktails. Robin Stransky our Manager has spent the last 15 years mastering his trade!
PRICE RANGE
£5.00 – £21.00
CUISINES
British
Special Diets
Vegetarian friendly, Vegan options, Gluten free options
Meals
Lunch, Drinks
FEATURES
Reservations, Outdoor Seating, Seating, Highchairs Available, Wheelchair Accessible, Wine and Beer, Accepts Mastercard, Accepts Visa, Accepts Credit Cards, Table Service
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4.5
718 reviews
Excellent
534
Very good
106
Average
33
Poor
25
Terrible
20
Carl B
2 contributions
Aug 2020 • none
I’m normally too lazy to leave a review but I felt this place was worthy of a little of my time and effort . We arrived at the beautiful village of Bourton and were a little overwhelmed with how busy it was ! We were hoping to grab some food and given the hoards of people we were worried we wouldn’t have much luck at least not without some long queues. We spotted a sign for burgers through a side alley and came across Smiths. There was a small table for two in the corner outside and we were lucky enough to be seated straight away. I’m a huge fan of burgers and wings and the menu is nice and simple. We ordered a cheese burger each and boneless wings and dirty fries to share.
The chef was so happy and pleasant when he delivered our food to the table after a reasonable waiting time. I could really tell he was proud of the food he was making and that he loved his job and that was refreshing. The food was absolutely bang on. It’s amazing how difficult some people find a simple burger and fries but this place didn’t disappoint and the chicken wings were good- we are chicken wing crazy and find it extremely hard to find anything that comes close to the states over here but these were pretty close. The dirty fries were amazing, The crispness of the fries was the best I’ve had and the toppings complimented them perfectly. The burgers were lovely, I do prefer a thin patty which is what Smiths delivers but I would recommend going for the double if you go- simply because they are so nice you’ll want two! We also had two large bottles of San Miguel. It came to £41 which given the quality of the food I felt was reasonable. Overall I’d recommend this place especially if you are a lover of dirty food like us! My only regret I have is not having the nachos ! A table next to us did tho and they looked as good as expected ! The chef even took the time to come back out and see what we thought. I couldn’t fault the service. Thank you for a lovely meal!
Written 16 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
smithsofbourton
Hi Carl, thank you for your lovely words. We appreciate you're support.
Written 28 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
briancT4411DN
68 contributions
Apr 2021 • couples
My partner and I have been to many self proclaimed top burger bars/restaurants in London where we live. And although perfectly fine food they are not a patch on the burgers we had last-night at Smiths.
The menu give a good selection of burgers with the ability to double up for a extremely generous price give the absolute outstanding quality. The service is amazing with very friendly staff who liked a chat and a giggle we felt instantly at ease.
I have to say I have genuinely never eaten a burger as tasty and flavoured as this! I had the bacon butter cheeseburger and can honestly say every bite was delicious with the burst of flavours that were not overpowering. A lot of places say the use only “the best beef”. This place actually does with a fine mix of beef cuts
The wine list is good and I think very fairly priced so much so we moved into the drinks room and had another bottle!!
All in all I’d say hand on heart Smiths is the best burgers I’ve ever eaten
Written 27 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Himmy L
London26 contributions
Jul 2020 • none
We were looking to have dinner at around 8:45 when most of the other kitchens in the town had started closing, but Smiths had no hesitation in accommodating us. The decor there is down-to-earth yet elegant, the burgers are delicious and the stuffed jalapenos and Pimms cocktails are definitely worth a try. They also went above and beyond to get us the desserts we wanted, which we appreciated! We ended up having a great time chatting with the friendly staff, making for a memorable evening that was certainly one of our highlights of the trip to the Cotswolds.
Written 19 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
smithsofbourton
Thank you Himmy,
Your words mean a lot hope to see you soon.
Written 28 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Guy G
Gran Canaria52 contributions
Jan 2020 • none
We visited Smiths over the weekend when visiting Bourton on the Water after seeing it was number 1 on trip advisor so had high expectations. We were a group of 11 and when we entered the took a few minutes to decide where to seat us despite there being loads of space, to the point where I nearly suggested we'd go elsewhere if we were causing them a problem. I wish we had done...
After being seated and deciding what we wanted from the menus - all sandwiches and drinks - it took a while for our drinks to arrive and took an absolute age for the food to arrive. When food did eventually arrive it only half the party got theirs and had finished long before the other half got theirs. The food was reasonable but some of it was cold for example the mushy peas on the fish finger sandwich. With the length of time we'd waited we didn't even bother complaining in the end. Also one of the kids orders got missed off the order despite the server reading the full order back to us.
Overall i'm afraid i'd not visit again. I can only imagine that a party of 11 ordering food that needed cooking, as opposed to just cakes, got the better of them. The server was very apologetic for the delays and the missed food but it wasn't a nice experience of friends being out for a sociable, relaxed lunch so not really acceptable to mess up so badly. The setting and the decor is nice, the staff were fine and under less pressure i'm sure would be very friendly but the service and food let it down badly.
Written 22 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vanessa y
Kent41 contributions
Nov 2020 • family
Recently bought a takeaway from these guys, they were very pleasant but both were not wearing masks inside the restaurant whilst serving and taking money. Sad that they feel they don’t have to abide by the rules. They should put a mask on whilst taking money if nothing else. Talking of money we upgraded from normal fries which come as standard with the burgers but instead of charging the difference in price we got charged full price!!! very disappointed with the whole experience. Takeaway food was ok.
Written 7 November 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Joanne B
Bingham74 contributions
Jun 2021 • couples
Arrived early, friendly greeting however then waited 20 minutes for the waitress to take our drink order and only offered two options of our choice rather than the 5 that were available.
Food was nice, although overpriced, and when the manager left us to decide about maybe having a cheeky cocktail (which i was going to have) we were then presented with the bill - essentially making us feel like we needed to go!
Place was really lovely, decorated well and accessible. No draft beer but a decent selection of cans and bottles although no menu/price list.
Written 16 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rosscos98
Belfast63 contributions
Aug 2021 • none
Our family had various burgers with several having normal fries and several having Cajun with them. Everyone’s burgers were stunning, cooked to perfection and I would say, probably the best burgers any of us had ever tasted. The only grumble we had was the less than friendly staff and that for 5 burgers and 5 drinks, it cost nearly £100. Great food isn’t cheap, I appreciate that, however it’s a very steep price for basic food ingredients. It was awesome food but I don’t think I’d go back as I can’t really justify that price tag for burgers.
Written 15 August 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robin S
Hello, I’m glad you had a pleasant visit in general
I do feel you underestimate the ingredients that go into a good burger!
We take great pride working with artisan producers, sourcing the best ingredients we can lay our hands on - this usually comes with a higher price tag - only this way it could’ve become the best burger you’ve ever had.
I apologise you felt the staff were less than friendly, we don’t usually get negative feedback on that.
Drop us an email if you’d like to discussion about more, we’d love to find out what to improve for next time.
Written 22 August 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kamp365
14 contributions
Sept 2021 • none
Pleasant evening in trendy setting. Nice atmosphere and decor and staff were friendly. Definitely fresh & quality ingredients. Burgers were good but found the combination with the truffle fries to be very rich (truffle fries were covered in a rich mayo which was unexpected / not advertised). My wife really enjoyed her wine and I enjoyed my beer (although I received a 440ml can rather than the advertised 500ml and paid the 500ml price).
Overall it was a pleasant experience, and if we were to go back, I would try the cajun fries and a different beer.
Written 26 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
evitonid
London53 contributions
Jul 2020 • none
It seems it is a tea room but after the lockdown, they re-open it as a burger place. They serve very delicious and "honest" burger, tastefull - well cooked french fries with two three different options of toppings and we tried also the homemade slaw as a side. We found it throught Trip Advisor, and we like so much the interior design and the polite staff. We had the oppportunity to talk with the owners and both are lovely. We recommend this place 100%!!!
Written 12 July 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lauren Fox
Sittingbourne5 contributions
Nov 2021 • couples
Amazing!!! We came here on our last night of our staycation, we found it at the beginning of the week, but wanted to wait as seemed more expensive then a few other restaurants. I am soo glad we waited! The food was amazing we both had different burgers and both said they were the best burgers we’ve ever had (we very rarely have anything other then burger if it’s on the menu) the portion sizes are perfect, all the staff were friendly and happy. I would say it’s a little on the pricey side as the chips are extra even though they come with the burger, however you could tell everything was handmade and fresh. Would recommend to anyone who likes a burger!!
Written 6 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mark B
7 contributions
Feb 2022 • couples
Upon entry we were seated and asked whether we would like still or sparkling water for the table, to which we said still. Only to find that we had in fact been charged for said bottle of water despite never been told this initially. Ordinarily you swallow it as one of those things however when that bottle of water cost nearly £5 you start to feel like they’re taking advantage a little bit. Additionally, there was an optional service charge of 10% automatically added to the total bill, this was mentioned nowhere on the menu so came as a surprise for what is effectively a Gastro eatery.
Food wise however, this was really good. The burgers came out and were nicely seasoned with the right amount of accompanying flavours. The fries again very nice, not too oily and the right temperature.
For an establishment that clearly sees itself as high-end based on its “Classic“ burger being the most expensive item on the menu, to be given salt in a sachet as opposed to grinder is also a bit bizarre.
When it came time to settle the bill and I noticed the additional charge for Water to which I queried, the manager presented an amended receipt with the cost removed however went on to state that the staff are trained to upsell and there was no trickery. He didn’t like my explanation that whilst there may be no trickery the Waitress was not upfront with us that this would be chargeable. £5 for a bottle of water! As a result of this lack of honesty and the managers brashness I did remove the service charge. Again, had we have been notified upfront that this charge will be applied to the final bill we more than likely would’ve accepted it as one of those things, but not when you feel like you’re being duped.
Written 5 February 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Emily
1 contribution
Aug 2020 • none
So excited to have this fabulous local restaurant and cocktail bar which we tried for the first time recently. We can't wait to go back. The burgers are mouthwatering as well as the starter nachos. Had delicious cocktails made by Kai (Bramble gin cocktail and a Chocolate Martini) an experienced cocktail master and friendly helpful service throughout the evening by the whole team. The decor is shabby chic creating a lovely atmosphere. Thank you all at Smiths!
Written 2 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ameliamelinda
Leatherhead6 contributions
Jul 2021 • none
Booked a table here as a “quick easygoing dinner” for our first night in Bourton on the Water and my goodness was this place good. Only place in the town that you’ll find cocktails, and they were fabulous. We just had snacky bits, chilli chicken and truffle Parmesan fries - unreal!!! Not only was the food and drink to extremely high standard but the service was spot on. Beth and Niamh looked after us so well, they were chatty and friendly and made us feel super welcome. We also had a lovely chat with Seb who owns the place with his brother. It was clear that this was a place run by people who seriously care about their produce and customer experience. It was so good we ended up going back before we left and plan to go back again in the future! Thanks again guys
Written 5 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wolvesblogger
Wolverhampton42 contributions
Jan 2020 • couples
We received a really warm welcome from the lovely couple who owned this cosy coffee shop. We both ordered the savoury afternoon tea which came with a pot of tea. It had lovely cheeses, meats, sourdough bread & a cheese scone.
Really tasty. Relaxed atmosphere. We really enjoyed our stop off at Smiths in this beautiful slice of the Cotswolds.
Written 24 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea C
3 contributions
Aug 2020 • couples
On a busy Friday night in Bourton we booked a table at Smiths thanks to the recommendation of our accommodation and were not disappointed. The food was extremely tasty and the staff were so so friendly and helpful. Sadly won’t be back for a while as we are not local to the area but would 100% recommend smiths to anyone. Lovely food, wine & atmosphere. :)
Written 14 August 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
smithsofbourton
Hi Andrea, thank you for your lovely words. We appreciate you're support and hope to see you soon.
Written 28 August 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
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