Nadu – Tamil & Sri Lankan Flavours in Stokes Croft

4.7 (509)

Bold Tamil and Sri Lankan flavours in Bristol’s cultural heart, with fiery curries, giant dosas and creative rum cocktails in a vibrant Stokes Croft setting.

Nadu is a vibrant South Indian and Sri Lankan restaurant in Bristol’s bohemian Stokes Croft, known for its bold, authentic flavours and lively atmosphere. Specialising in Tamil cuisine from Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, it offers everything from fiery curries and flaky dosas to creative rum cocktails. The menu is rich in vegetarian and vegan options, and the space buzzes with colour, warmth, and a contemporary edge, making it ideal for casual dinners, date nights, or sharing a feast with friends.

A brief summary to Nadu

77-79 Stokes Croft, Bristol, BS1 3RD, GB
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Mid ranged
Indoor
Mobile reception: 5 out of 5

Monday 5 pm-11:30 pm
Tuesday 5 pm-11:30 pm
Wednesday 5 pm-11:30 pm
Thursday 12 pm-11:30 pm
Friday 12 pm-12:30 am
Saturday 12 pm-12:30 am
Sunday 12 pm-11:30 pm

Local tips

Book ahead, especially on weekends or for groups – Nadu is popular and tables fill up quickly.
Come hungry and order to share – a mix of dosas, curries, rice and breads gives the best taste of the menu.
Try the metre-long dosa if you’re with a group – it’s a fun, memorable centrepiece and perfect for sharing.
Explore the rum cocktails at the bar – they’re creative, well-balanced and a great match for the spicy food.
Vegetarians and vegans will find plenty of options; ask staff for recommendations if you want to focus on plant-based dishes.

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Getting There

Walking

From Bristol city centre, it’s about a 15–20 minute walk along Stokes Croft. The route is flat and well-lit, passing colourful street art and independent shops, with clear signage to the restaurant area.
Bus

Several local bus routes serve Stokes Croft and nearby Gloucester Road, with stops within a 5-minute walk. Services run frequently during the day and evening, making it easy to reach Nadu without a car.
Bicycle

Bristol has a good network of cycle paths and lanes; Nadu is easily reached by bike from the city centre or surrounding areas, with nearby cycle parking available on Stokes Croft.
Car

Street parking is limited and often busy in Stokes Croft; on-street spaces are pay-and-display and can fill quickly, especially in the evenings. A nearby multi-storey car park is a more reliable option, about a 10-minute walk away.

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Restrooms
Drink Options
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Seating Areas
Trash Bins

Discover more about Nadu

A Taste of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka

Nadu brings the bold, layered flavours of Tamil cuisine to the heart of Bristol’s cultural quarter. Drawing inspiration from Tamil Nadu in southern India and the Tamil diaspora in Sri Lanka, the menu is a celebration of spice, texture, and tradition, refined with a modern touch. Expect rich curries, tangy sambols, and coconut-laced dishes that balance heat, sourness, and sweetness. Signature items include the metre-long tear-and-share dosa, hoppers with chutneys and sambols, and deeply spiced meat and seafood curries, all made with care and authenticity.Vegetarians and vegans are exceptionally well catered for, with many dishes naturally plant-based or easily adapted. The menu is designed for sharing, encouraging diners to order a spread of small plates, rice dishes, breads, and curries to experience the full spectrum of flavours.

Inside the Stokes Croft Dining Room

Set in the colourful, independent Stokes Croft, Nadu’s interior matches its energetic neighbourhood. The space is warm and inviting, with a contemporary, slightly industrial edge that lets the food and drinks take centre stage. Lighting is intimate but not dim, perfect for both relaxed meals and lively gatherings. The bar is a focal point, serving a creative cocktail list that leans heavily on rum and other unique spirits, making it a great spot for drinks as well as dinner.Service is attentive and knowledgeable, with staff happy to guide diners through the menu, suggest pairings, and accommodate dietary needs. The atmosphere is convivial and unpretentious – a place where you can come in jeans for a casual bite or dress up for a special occasion.

What to Order and When to Go

The metre-long dosa is a must-try, especially if you’re with a group – it’s a dramatic, fun, and delicious centrepiece. Hoppers, vambatu moju (aubergine stew), and fish or king prawn curries are also standout dishes. For drinks, explore the rum-based cocktails, which complement the food’s spice and richness.Nadu is busiest on Friday and Saturday evenings, when the room fills with locals and visitors drawn by the food and buzz. Lunch and early dinner on Thursdays and weekends are also popular. To avoid disappointment, booking in advance is recommended, especially for larger groups or special occasions. The restaurant is usually open for lunch from Thursday and for dinner every day, making it a flexible choice for both weekday and weekend visits.