Watford has always intrigued me—not just as a town conveniently close to London but as a destination where culinary surprises hide around every corner. Walking its streets, I often feel like I’m discovering the hidden heartbeat of local life through food. From cozy bistros to vibrant street stalls, every meal tells a story, and I’ve spent countless weekends indulging in the flavors this town has to offer.
There’s something intimate about eating in Watford. It’s not the frenzied pace of London’s high streets; it’s more human, more approachable. I can wander into a tiny café tucked behind a row of shops and find the kind of meal that feels like it was prepared just for me. Over the years, I’ve compiled my own personal list of restaurants and specialty food spots that I believe define the town’s gastronomic identity.
1. La Taverna (69 High Street, Watford WD17 2AJ)
My first memory of La Taverna is walking in on a rainy afternoon and being greeted by the warm aroma of freshly baked bread and simmering sauces. This Italian restaurant is a Watford classic, small but bustling, with hand-painted tiles and rustic wooden tables that make you feel instantly at home.
Signature Dishes
Their homemade gnocchi is a revelation—pillowy dumplings in a creamy truffle sauce that leaves you savoring each bite. The risotto ai funghi, cooked to perfection, is another favorite of mine. On one evening, I tried their seafood linguine, and the freshness of the prawns and mussels reminded me of a coastal Italian trattoria.
Booking and Tips
Reservations are advisable, particularly on weekends. I usually book via OpenTable UK, which sometimes offers points or special offers for larger parties. On weekdays, the lunch menu provides excellent value, often including starter, main, and dessert at a fraction of the evening price.
Personal Reflection
Eating at La Taverna feels like stepping into a small Italian town. I remember sitting by the window, watching pedestrians scurry under umbrellas, and feeling completely cocooned in warmth, flavor, and the sense of being somewhere timeless.
2. The King’s Arms (45 Church Street, Watford WD17 4QU)
The King’s Arms is one of those quintessentially British pubs that somehow manages to blend tradition with contemporary flair. I discovered it one crisp autumn evening, lured by the smell of roasting meat and fresh hops.
Signature Dishes
Their Sunday roast is legendary—a perfect roast beef with Yorkshire puddings that are crisp on the outside and soft in the center. The pork belly with apple chutney is another dish I can’t resist, and their homemade pies often change with the seasons, always showcasing local ingredients.
Booking and Tips
I recommend reserving a table for Sunday lunches, especially during football season when locals flock in. Tripadvisor often lists seasonal offers or combo deals with drinks included.
Personal Reflection
I’ve sat here countless times, notebook in hand, sampling dishes and watching families and friends chatter over pints of ale. There’s a warmth in this space that feels entirely English, a grounding presence in the midst of a busy week.
3. Benito’s Burrito Bar (13 Lower High Street, Watford WD17 2JL)
For something quick yet vibrant, Benito’s Burrito Bar has become my go-to. Tucked down a side street, this Mexican spot bursts with color, aroma, and flavor.
Signature Dishes
Their burritos are massive, stuffed with fresh ingredients and handmade tortillas. The chicken al pastor is my personal favorite, perfectly spiced and paired with guacamole that’s creamy without being heavy. I once tried the veggie burrito, and the combination of black beans, roasted peppers, and queso fresco was unexpectedly satisfying.
Booking and Tips
Walk-ins are generally fine, but if you’re planning a weekend visit, it’s worth checking Deliveroo UK for delivery or pick-up discounts. They occasionally run lunchtime deals that cut prices significantly for set menus.
Personal Reflection
Benito’s is casual, lively, and utterly honest food. I love going there when I want a fast meal that still feels like a celebration of ingredients rather than convenience.
4. Indian Flame (14-15 The Parade, Watford WD17 1DB)
Indian cuisine is a cornerstone of Watford’s diverse culinary scene, and Indian Flame has never failed to impress me. It’s an intimate, family-run restaurant with vibrant décor, scented candles, and aromas that greet you from the door.
Signature Dishes
The butter chicken is silky and rich, balanced by freshly baked naan. On a particularly memorable evening, I tried the lamb rogan josh paired with their house biryani. Every bite felt layered with spice, flavor, and warmth.
Booking and Tips
Weekends can be busy. I book ahead via Bookatable UK to secure the best tables. I also keep an eye on lunchtime specials, which are often half the price of dinner menus.
Personal Reflection
The thing I love about Indian Flame is its ability to balance authenticity with approachability. Each meal has that deep, lingering satisfaction that makes me want to linger at the table long after the last bite.
5. The Indian Orchard (36 High Street, Watford WD17 2AJ)
A short walk from the town center, The Indian Orchard has been a favorite of mine for years. The first thing that strikes you is the aroma of spices—the cumin, coriander, and cardamom greet you like old friends.
Signature Dishes
The tandoori lamb chops are perfectly charred, smoky and tender. I also adore their paneer tikka, which is robust yet delicate. Pair it with their garlic naan and a mango lassi, and I can promise you a meal that feels complete.
Booking and Tips
I often use OpenTable UK for reservations, and midweek visits are easier for snagging a window seat. Online offers sometimes include complimentary starters, so it’s worth checking before you book.
Personal Reflection
I love returning to The Indian Orchard because it reminds me that the simplest meals—prepared with care and skill—can be unforgettable. Watching families enjoy meals here, I often feel connected to the pulse of the community.
6. The Café Rouge (Watford Junction, Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JA)
For French-inspired cuisine in Watford, Café Rouge has been a reliable spot for me. Located near Watford Junction, it’s convenient and consistently charming.
Signature Dishes
Their steak frites is always a delight, the fries perfectly crisp and the steak tender. I also enjoy the croque monsieur for lunch, paired with a lightly dressed salad. Their desserts, especially the tarte tatin, have become a ritual for me after a day of shopping nearby.
Booking and Tips
Reservations via Bookatable UK ensure the best tables, and they often offer seasonal set menus that include drinks at a discount. Lunch menus are lighter on the wallet compared to evening dining.
Personal Reflection
Sitting here, watching commuters hustle past the windows, I often feel like I’ve slipped into a little Parisian corner. The simplicity and elegance of the food always make me linger longer than I intended.
7. Pizza Express (45 High Street, Watford WD17 2AJ)
Sometimes comfort food is what you need, and Pizza Express never fails to deliver. Though part of a chain, the Watford location feels personal, with attentive staff and an inviting atmosphere.
Signature Dishes
Their classic margherita pizza remains my favorite, while the Padana—with spinach, mushrooms, and ricotta—is a seasonal favorite I can’t resist. The dough is light, the sauce tangy, and the mozzarella rich but not overpowering.
Booking and Tips
Online bookings via PizzaExpress UK often provide voucher codes or free starters. If you time it right, the lunch offers provide two courses at a very reasonable price.
Personal Reflection
I love this spot for evenings when I want relaxed indulgence. The casual atmosphere lets me unwind while enjoying food that feels thoughtfully prepared.
8. Nomad Street Food (Market Place, Watford WD17 1DL)
For a more informal experience, Nomad Street Food is a gem. A stall in the market area, it’s perfect for exploring local flavors quickly.
Signature Dishes
I’m addicted to their gourmet hotdogs—especially the pulled pork version, topped with crisp slaw and smoky BBQ sauce. Their falafel wraps are also exceptional, packed with fresh herbs and tangy tahini.
Booking and Tips
Walk-in only, but visiting mid-morning avoids queues. Sometimes they offer combo deals with drinks during lunch hours, which I always take advantage of.
Personal Reflection
There’s something raw and exciting about eating here—no frills, just vibrant flavor and energy. I often grab one and wander nearby parks, enjoying the contrast between street food vibrancy and green serenity.
9. The Ivy Watford (14 Clarendon Road, Watford WD17 1JJ)
The Ivy chain carries a certain reputation, and the Watford branch doesn’t disappoint. Elegance is in every detail—from the décor to the polished service.
Signature Dishes
The truffle risotto is my indulgence here
, creamy with subtle earthy depth. I also savor their signature fish and chips, presented with a touch of refinement that elevates the classic dish.
Booking and Tips
Reservations are a must, especially for weekend evenings. Using The Ivy online reservation system can sometimes reveal special pre-theater menus or early dining discounts.
Personal Reflection
I often visit The Ivy when celebrating small personal milestones. It’s an environment where food feels like an event, and I leave with a sense of being pampered in the best possible way.
10. The Boathouse Café (Vicarage Road, Watford WD18 0ER)
Nestled near Vicarage Road Stadium, this café offers a lighter, relaxed experience. I first stumbled upon it on a foggy morning, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee drew me in immediately.
Signature Dishes
The full English breakfast here is hearty, with sausages that taste homemade and eggs cooked to perfection. Their smoked salmon bagel is another favorite for a quick yet satisfying bite.
Booking and Tips
Walk-ins are common, though weekends can be busy. I often check The Fork UK for lunchtime offers that reduce the bill by 20–30%.
Personal Reflection
It’s a spot where I can slow down, enjoy the riverside view, and sip coffee while planning the day ahead. There’s a quiet contentment in such mornings that makes each visit feel restorative.
Additional Travel and Booking Tips
Exploring Watford is easy if you plan smartly. I usually book flights and accommodations through platforms like Skyscanner UK, Booking.com, or Expedia UK to secure the best deals. For restaurant reservations, OpenTable, Bookatable, and The Fork have been lifesavers, often offering discounts, complimentary starters, or loyalty points.
When dining, visiting midweek or during lunch often saves money while still letting me enjoy the full menu. Signing up for newsletters can also alert me to seasonal promotions or exclusive deals. I’ve found that combining careful planning with spontaneity—like wandering into a street food stall after a museum visit—produces the most memorable culinary moments.
Watford’s food scene is surprisingly varied. Over countless visits, I’ve found that each neighborhood and every corner has its own story told through flavors. These ten spots are the backbone of my culinary adventures here, but the town always offers small surprises, seasonal treats, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Walking its streets, notebook or camera in hand, I never stop feeling that familiar thrill: what will I taste next, and what story will it tell?
