Jars Meze

A Family-Owned Slice of Greece in Bath's Historic Centre

Jars Meze occupies a charming corner of Bath's vibrant dining scene, housed in a modest but characterful space on Northumberland Place. This family-run establishment has cultivated a loyal following by maintaining a commitment to authentic Greek hospitality and traditional Mediterranean cooking. The restaurant's intimate size—with seating for small to medium groups—creates an inherently personal dining atmosphere where staff members genuinely engage with guests, often treating diners as part of an extended family rather than mere customers. The setting reflects a deliberate aesthetic choice: simple, unpretentious décor punctuated by warm lighting and subtle Greek cultural touches that evoke a traditional taverna without resorting to kitsch.

The Meze Experience and Menu Philosophy

The restaurant's name and core offering centre on meze—the Greek tradition of sharing small plates and appetizers that encourage communal dining and conversation. The menu showcases classic Greek preparations including moussaka with its characteristic layers of aubergine, minced meat, and béchamel sauce; briam, a vegetable bake featuring zucchini, potatoes, and aromatic herbs; and various seafood offerings such as marinated octopus and grilled fish. The kitchen emphasizes fresh ingredients and traditional cooking methods, with dishes designed to be ordered in multiples per person, allowing diners to sample a broad spectrum of flavors. Vegetarian options are prominently featured, reflecting the Mediterranean diet's plant-forward traditions. The wine and spirits selection includes Greek wines and ouzo, completing the cultural immersion.

Atmosphere and Social Setting

The restaurant's intimate scale and family ownership create a distinctly personal ambiance that appeals to couples seeking romance, small groups celebrating occasions, and families wanting a relaxed yet special dining experience. The décor balances simplicity with warmth—exposed elements, modest furnishings, and ambient lighting work together to establish an environment that feels both authentic and inviting. Greek music often accompanies the meal, reinforcing the cultural context without overwhelming conversation. Staff members are trained to guide guests through the meze tradition, offering recommendations on portion sizes and flavor combinations, which enhances the sense of being welcomed into a Greek household rather than merely patronized as customers.

Culinary Authenticity and Preparation

The kitchen operates with a philosophy centered on traditional Greek cooking techniques and ingredient quality. Dishes are prepared fresh to order, with the kitchen visible or audible to diners, reinforcing transparency about preparation methods. The moussaka, frequently highlighted by regular patrons, exemplifies this approach—each component is carefully layered and baked to achieve the proper texture and flavor balance. Vegetable dishes like briam showcase the kitchen's ability to elevate simple ingredients through proper seasoning and cooking technique. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity extends to less common offerings, such as properly prepared tzatziki and marinated seafood, which require time and skill to execute correctly.

Location and Accessibility Within Bath

Positioned on Northumberland Place, the restaurant sits within Bath's compact city centre, accessible to the main shopping and tourist areas yet removed from the most congested thoroughfares. This location offers a balance: guests can easily reach the restaurant from Bath's major attractions and accommodation, yet the quieter street setting provides a more intimate dining environment than establishments on busier commercial strips. The neighborhood character—historic Georgian architecture, independent shops, and residential elements—contributes to the restaurant's appeal as a local favorite rather than a tourist trap.

Seasonal Rhythms and Booking Considerations

As a small, family-operated venue with limited seating capacity, Jars Meze operates with a rhythm tied to Bath's tourism seasons and local dining patterns. The restaurant closes on Mondays and operates lunch service Tuesday through Sunday, with dinner service Tuesday through Saturday. Advance booking is strongly recommended, particularly during peak tourist seasons and weekends, as the intimate size means tables fill quickly. The restaurant's popularity among both locals and visitors reflects its reputation as a destination worth planning around rather than a casual walk-in option.