ARE you looking for somewhere new to eat with autumn just around the corner? 

We’ve compiled a list of the top ten rated restaurants in South Cumbria, according to TripAdvisor reviews.

The Old Stamp House

This Michelin-starred restaurant housed in the former office of William Wordsworth is located on Church Street in Ambleside.

The restaurant offers both a lunch and a dinner tasting menu at £55 and £95 per person, as well as a varied wine list.

Head chef Ryan Blackburn and restaurant manager Craig Blackburn set out to offer a unique insight into the food and cultural heritage of Cumbria.

One reviewer said: “Excellent all round experience and would highly recommend. Tastes and ingredients were outstanding. Quality food and outstanding service. WOW - brilliant all around.”

The Old Stamp House restaurant has been reviewed 1,550 times and has an average TripAdvisor rating of 5/5.

Afternoon Tea at Cedars Manor                 

This five-star boutique hotel on Ambleside Road in Windermere offers an afternoon tea service between Thursday-Monday from 1pm to 4pm lasting approximately two hours.

All food is homemade by the hotel’s chef and includes savouries, sandwiches, scones, desserts and cakes.

Gluten-free and vegetarian options are available.

The afternoon tea service was given a Travellers Choice Award in 2022.

One reviewer said: “We have recently visited Cedar Manor for Afternoon Tea and it was the best Afternoon Tea we have ever had!!

"Being gluten free it can be hard to find places that accommodate, but this Afternoon Tea came out looking exactly the same and tasted amazing!

"All the staff were great and we would definitely recommend. We would love to come back!”

Afternoon Tea at Cedars has been reviewed 400 times and has an average TripAdvisor rating of 5/5.

Graze

This coffee shop and eatery in Crag Bow House, Helm Road in Bowness serves a range of Asian cuisine.

If you fancy a Japanese dish then this is the place to go.

The café also offers a range of both vegetarian and vegan friendly options.

One reviewer said: "Wonderful, clean food prepared with love. After a delicious meal, our family left feeling satisfied and energetic - a sign of a nutritious meal. Thank you!"

Graze has been reviewed 406 times and has an average TripAdvisor rating of 5/5.

Bandito Burrito

Located on Main Road in Windermere, this café with both dine-in and takeaway options available, specialises in authentic Mexican flavours.

From burritos, burrito bowls, nachos and quesadillas to grilled sandwiches and popular dishes like mac and cheese, there is so much variety to enjoy.

One reviewer said: “Looking for a healthy alternative and found it here. The waiter was very pleasant and he talked us through the menu options. We settled on the rice bowl and beef, it was delicious. We will definitely return again.”

Bandito Burrito has been reviewed 201 times and has an average TripAdvisor rating of 5/5.

Shabib’s

This modern, sleek restaurant and takeaway in Bownes is a favourite for Indian lovers.

The establishment offers a rich range of dishes including Tandoori / Grill Main Dishes, Balti Dishes and Tandoori Massala Dishes just to name a few.  

One reviewer said: “Excellent food, including some more unusual dishes, e.g. The lamb Kabula. Friendly and efficient service too. Had many a visit to the restaurant and take aways over the years on our visits to the Lake District and they have never failed to impress.”

Shabib’s Restaurant and Takeaway has been reviewed 1,781 times and has an average TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5/5.

The Jumble Room

This colourful and easy-going restaurant is located on Langdale Road, Grasmere in Ambleside.

Specialising in international cuisine, their food is locally sourced, and where possible organic ingredients are used.

One reviewer said: “It was my second visit and I’ve been waiting to bring my husband here since I first came at Easter and it did not disappoint. Service and food were both excellent.

“All the food was expertly cooked and thoroughly delicious. We will most definitely be back. Make sure you book your visit well in advance to avoid missing out.”

The Jumble Room has been reviewed 1,738 times and has an average TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5/5.

Brew Brothers

This is a chic coffee shop situated on Highgate, Kendal which also has an extensive food menu.

The menu includes an all-day breakfast menu, a variety of different toasties, a ‘bigger bites’ section, as well as brunch menu which is served until 2pm.

One reviewer said: “Fantastic service and one of the best breakfasts we have had in a long time. We visited on a Sunday morning and it was busy but the staff did a great job of making you feel very welcome. Would highly recommend.”

Brew Brothers has been reviewed 835 times and has an average TripAdvisor Rating of 4.5/5.

Lake Raj

This contemporary Indian restaurant is based on Bowness-on-Windermere.

The menu offers a good range of starters, Tandoori Main dishes, Masale dishes and Biryani dishes.

One reviewer said: “Best spot in Bowness for a great Indian meal. The garlic naan was exceptionally good as we're the paneer and chickpea dishes. A range of options for vegetarians and vegans. We had a very friendly server which made the experience even more enjoyable.”

Lake Raj has been reviewed 1,267 times and has an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.5/5.

Jintani Thai Restaurant

Located on Compston Road in Ambleside offers a classic Southeast Asian menu in a stylish venue.

The restaurant opened in 2011 and offers diners the opportunity to enjoy freshy prepared authentic Thai Cuisine.

One reviewer said: “First visit and certainly not disappointed. We will be returning. The food was mouthwateringingly excellent. The lady serving us was so lovely and very attentive. We will be returning. Thankyou.”

Jintani Thai Restaurant has been reviewed 1,881 times and has an average TripAdvisor rating of 4/5.

Mila Spice Fusion

Situated on Ash Street in Bowness-on-Windermere, this restaurant is open daily from 5pm to 11.30pm and offers both Indian and Bangladeshi cuisine.

There is also a takeaway service available.

One reviewer said: “Amazingly friendly service, with a massive range of delicious curries and other south-asian dishes, each with a clear indication of the heat/spice. Poppadoms served while waiting and food was served promptly. Definitely recommend for a curry out.”

Mila Spice Fusion has been reviewed 1,187 times and has an average TripAdvisor score of 4/5.