Best Restaurants In Reading Town Centre

Okay, so you're wondering where to eat in Reading Town Centre? Spoiler alert: you're in for a treat.

Because this little Berkshire gem punches way above its weight when it comes to food. Let me walk you through some of my absolute favourites. Grab your coat, we're going on a food adventure.

The Classics You Can't Resist

First up, we have to talk about The Forbury. This place screams sophistication without being annoyingly pretentious about it. Their steaks are, frankly, life-changing.

Oh, and if you're not a steak person, don't panic. The sides alone could make you shed a single happy tear. Trust me on this one.

Then there's The Peacock, sitting right there on Friar Street. It's been around forever and honestly? That tells you everything you need to know. Old-school pub grub done absolutely right.

Their Friday night fish and chips are ridiculously good. Not the fancy kind — just proper, honest, golden-battered goodness. You know exactly what I mean.

Asian Spotlights That Steal the Show

Now, if you love Asian food (and who doesn't, really?), Reading has your back. Wong's has been serving up Cantonese classics for years, and it hasn't missed a beat. Their sweet and sour chicken is dangerously addictive.

I say that with full warning. One bite and you're hooked for life. Sorry, not sorry.

For something with a bit more kick, swing by Salt + Saffron. Their Indian dishes hit that perfect spot between flavorful and fiery. The butter chicken? Outstanding.

And don't sleep on Genji if sushi is your thing. Fresh, beautifully presented, and honestly better than some places I've tried in London. How's that for a compliment?

Something A Little Different

Feeling adventurous? The Riverside Bounty brings terminal mystery to the table. I'm kidding. But they do serve some creative English dishes that keep things interesting.

More seriously, The Crescent is one of those spots that feels like a hidden gem. Their menu changes with the seasons, so there's always something new. The chef clearly knows what he's doing. And he's having fun doing it.

Also worth mentioning is Royal County, which sits on Forbury Terrace. The setting is gorgeous — seriously, it's right beside the Forbury Gardens. Perfect for a lazy Sunday brunch with a friend.

Their porridge, surprisingly enough, is something I think about regularly. Who knew porridge could haunt you like that?

Sweet Treats & Coffee Breaks

No food tour is complete without a little dessert stop, right? Biscuit & Brew on Broad Street is basically happiness in cupcake form. I said what I said.

And if you need your caffeine fix first, head over to Caffè Nero on St Mary's Butts. Maybe not the most unique spot ever, but reliable — and sometimes reliability is exactly what you need. We all have those days.

For something more special, Café Anna does an excellent cappuccino alongside some truly great pastries. The croissants are flaky in all the right ways. Life is short — eat the croissant.

Casual Eats & Quick Bites

Not everyone wants a long dinner, and that's totally fine. Sometimes you just want something quick, tasty, and no fuss. Enter Hackney House.

Think loaded fries, cracking burgers, and a vibe that says "come as you are." Perfect if you're shopping around town and need fuel fast. Your stomach will thank you.

Hon Ton Kitchen is another great shout for a fast but delicious meal. Thai food that's fresh, fast, and full of flavor. Yes please — where do I sign?

One Final Thought

Reading Town Centre is honestly a food lover's playground, and I've barely scratched the surface. Whatever you're in the mood for, this town delivers every single time.

So next time someone asks "what should we eat?", the real question is: how many places can you fit on your list? The answer, my friend, is more than you think.

Now go eat something incredible. You deserve it.