2025 edit: unfortunately this restaurant is now closed.

Mathilda’s Chilli Bar has been on my list of eateries to try out since my pal Lily blogged about it 2 years ago. I’m obviously not really a fast mover in any respect, but we finally headed down to the Bear Pit in Bristol one gloomy winter evening to warm my belly with some of that famous chilli.

We went early on a Thursday evening, and were the only ones in there for a while. Apparently, Mathilda’s Chilli Bar does get pretty busy though, which I found kind of surprising as they are so tucked away. Word spreads fast in Bristol though, and if the food is good, the people will come.

Our bellies were rumbling as we sat down and ordered a beer. The smells coming from the open kitchen area were delicious. He chose the 3 bean chilli with cheese, and I opted for the half and half option, getting to try 2 different chillis in one.

Oh my. It was so tasty. The chilli was so full of flavour, with just the right amount of heat. The fresh guacamole was incredible, and I could’ve eaten a whole bowl of the stuff.

We didn’t order any of the sides (and I don’t think we would’ve been able to finish our dinner if we did) but they sound amazing… next time I head to Mathilda’s Chilli Bar, I’ll make sure there’s extra room in my tummy.

There’s a quote I quite like – “it is better to do one thing well than ten things poorly” – and Mathilda’s Chilli Bar is testament to that. It’s just a chilli bar – that’s all they do, along with a few sides, and dessert. And as far as I’m aware, their menu hasn’t changed. These guys stick to their guns.

And do I even need to mention the perfect, unfussy interior?

Oh and before I forget – if you head down to Mathilda’s Chilli Bar this week you get free mezcal, as they’re celebrating their 2nd birthday.

Mathilda’s Chilli Bar can be found at 4A Haymarket Walk and is open Wednesday – Saturday, 5-11pm.