Smith's of Bourton

Having seen multiple viral food reviewers give high praise to this place I knew I had to try Smith's for myself. It definitely live up to hype. I had the 'Bearnaise Bad Boy' which had so many incredible flavours. It was assembled with precision and love. The patties were the best cooked one I've ever eaten. Beautifully crisp outer edges with juicy tasty centre, perfect smashed patties. I paid extra to double up which I highly recommend if your jaw can cope! There was loads on bacon piled on top too. The shoestring onions were a nice addition but went soft easily so lost their crunch. Some pickles would have also been welcome but that's because I think they elevate any burger. My partner had some truffle parmesan fries and despite burning her mouth in eagerness she greatly enjoyed them. The food is quite pricey but you can tell they use top quality ingredients and ensure a pleasant eating experience with the ambience and service to justify the costs. Smith's is a highly indulgent place but a must try for burger enthusiasts.

We love burgers and are always on the lookout for great new spots — especially when they’re getting rave reviews and winning awards like Smiths! We visited yesterday and absolutely loved it. The burgers were an easy 10/10 for both of us and definitely make our top five ever (including ones we’ve tried in NYC!). The flavour was that perfect mix of “naughty but luxe” — indulgent yet refined. Fries and sides were equally delicious. The interior felt cosy and intimate, making it a great choice for a date night — not your typical industrial-style burger joint. We’ll definitely be back and will be spreading the word! 🍔👏

Visited during half term - had to wait an hour because no booking but heaps to do in the area while you wait. Burger was amazing, ordered the Mr P and it did not disappoint! Highly recommend the halloumi salad as well, probably my favorite thing! It’s a decent portion!

One of the absolute best smash burgers I have ever eaten! The juicy, yet caramelized beef was cooked to perfection. I loved the sesame seed bun and tasty melted cheese. The french fries were outstanding also. It’s in a cute little setting with low ceilings that make it overall very cozy. The food here was so good that we ended up eating both lunch and dinner here. Overall, the best bang for your buck in the whole area.

Amazing! Table was booked at 8:45 pm and our service was very speedy, the burgers were inane - we can see why one was ranked 3rd best in England. I would say it is great value for money and we will be back again :)

I don’t make many Google reviews as can’t be bothered but I have chosen to do this as people should know about visiting this place. This is the best meal I’ve had in the Cotswolds, best burger I’ve eaten in the UK, one of the best meals I’ve eaten in the UK since moving here in June. I had the Mr P burger (bacon given to other person I was sharing meal with as I don’t eat pork). Also got cajun chips and mac and cheese sides. The flavours were delicious, the dry-aged smashed patty was mouth watering crispy round the edges but not dry, the local sesame brioche buns played their role well and the cheese, mayo, chilli sauce and onion were drippingly delicious. Couldn’t get enough of the perfectly cooked Cajun chips and mac and cheese either. Host brought out mayo and ketchup free of charge. There was a real fireplace near us being topped up creating coziness, the hip hop beats were a refreshing change to the rest of the Cotswolds and the artwork was great for creating the different vibe too. Well done to the brothers who run this place. Book in advance over busy periods.

Had Sunday lunch at Smiths and ordered the Mr P—those burgers were absolutely on point! You can tell the team has put real effort into perfecting them. The sides and drinks were just as delicious. We sat in the walled garden, which was beautifully set up, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and friendly. Huge thanks for the lovely meal. If you're visiting the village, definitely give Smiths a try! 💯💯💯

You have to come here! They serve the most delicious burgers ever. If I could eat here everyday and night I would! The atmosphere is great- we sat in the garden with our dog and it’s lovely. The Waiting staff are really welcoming and friendly and hard working. Our waitress brought water for our dog and was very sweet with her which made us feel very comfortable. A lovely experience, wouldn’t hesitate to recommend smiths to anyone.

We recently stayed in Bourton on the water for a long weekend and this is the first place we had to try! We hadn't booked but we were lucky enough to secure a slot for collection on a Friday night. We tried a few items: Smith's signature chicken burger Smith's classic beef burger Mac & cheese The chicken burger was next level amazing! The chicken was moist and crispy, great seasoning! Never thought I would rate a chicken burger higher than a beef burger, consider my mind blown. Loved the beef burger, the smashed patties had crispy edges, the texture was great. I would have added a touch more sauce as the sauce was delicious. Mac & cheese was yummy, I would skip the onions next time though. Gorgeous location, amazing food, we will be back!

Fantastic burgers! I had the MR P burger and it was really tasty and full of flavour. My wife is gluten free and they could change the buns on majority of the burgers. She had the berinase burger and said it was the best gluten free burger she has ever had. We got some Cajun fries and chilli jam on the side which was also really good. Would recommend if you are coming to bourton on the water. Just make sure you book in with plenty of time ahead.

We visited Smiths of Bourton and were welcomed warmly and taken straight to a charming bay-window table. The service was warm and attentive from the start—our orders were taken promptly, and the food arrived without delay. I’ve had my fair share of great burgers over the years, but this one easily ranks among the best. Every side dish was exceptional as well; the chicken tenders, in particular, were absolutely unforgettable. And the dessert—an indulgent, luxuriously rich sphere of chocolate—was the perfect finale. We’ll definitely be returning.

WOW! What a place! I had the pleasure of meeting these guys at Deya Brewery in Cheltenham. I tried the Limp Brisket and it was incredible. Chimmichurri, garlic mayo and the brisket packed together just made such a flavour profile in every bite! Will be making a point of going there next time I’m in Bourton. Thank you!

We visited Smith’s on a Christmas evening - this is easily a top 5 burger venue in the UK. The food was absolutely phenomenal. I’d highly recommend the chicken tenders and the Mr P burger. It’s so good, I’m determined to come back and tick off all of the burgers on the menu.

We had the pleasure of dining at Smith’s recently and I am convinced they are serving the best burgers on planet Earth. The layers of flavor were unreal. The burgers had unique flavors such as pimento cheese, gochujang mayo, and miso mayo, and somehow every bite tasted like a joyful little story. We ordered the Classic and Mr. P’s, plus the truffle and Parm fries and the buffalo tenders that were so good… so good. Highly recommend ordering all of it because there is truly no wrong move here. The Buffalo tenders were light and airy and just lovely. We were seated in the coziest little dining nook right in front of the fireplace and it felt like stepping into a tiny bit of magic. I am writing this review from San Diego and honestly considering hopping on a plane just to recreate the entire night. I dined with four girlfriends and all four of us agreed we cannot wait to go back. A dream of a meal.

Visited Smiths after a Hawkstone tour that a friend booked us up for. Absolutely amazing place and best burger I’ve ever had, which means we will have to return to try out the rest of the menu when we can. Shout out to the chicken tenders with the plum and yuzu which had such delicious flavours. We visited on a quiet January and the place was busy so booking is advised… which just highlights the quality I guess. Basically just try them out you won’t be disappointed

Great place for high quality burgers and sides. Visited twice in a week so I could try different burgers. Everything was great. The Mr P and the Bearnaise Bad Boy were excellent as to were the chicken tenders and the winter slaw. The chilli jam in the Mr P was the star, it brought all the flavours together. Highly recommend a visit but does get busy as it’s not a big place.

We tucked in too quickly to get pictures! The food here is insanely good! This is the second time we have visited and it will certainly not be our last! Probably the best burger we have ever had! Me and the wife visited on Friday 20th February 2026.

+1

One of the best burgers in the UK? Very likely yes. They do them differently here. None of the regular toppings you’d expect on a burger. Here there’s careful consideration for flavour combinations and they are very good at it. The beef is wonderfully cooked and the buns are pillow soft. The chips are crunchy and fluffy at the same time. The service great and the staff are wonderful. We went on a Monday and it was busy so make sure you book.

Probably the best burger I’ve ever eaten in my life and my husband agreed. The meat was so juicy and soft, bun was incredible and the sauce inside just made it even nicer if that’s possible. I have a dairy allergy and they couldn’t have been more accommodating for me. Drink and service were great to and we will definitely be back!

Great experience overall! It’s hard to find a good smash burger in the UK, but this one was excellent — juicy and full of flavour. The staff were kind and friendly too. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone fancying a burger in town!

The best burger I have ever eaten. The price is a little steep but worth every penny for the food you are given. A lot of locals recommended this place to us and I can fully understand why. The food is not only exceptional but so were the staff! We went for a simple bacon and cheese burger and some kind of spicy burger, both were a delight and the fries were so morish. The cocktails were a treat and the ciders available were absolutely amazing as well! If you’re going to bourton on water you have got to try this place out…

A*, hands down the best burger we’ve ever had. The truffle shuffle fries were amazing as was the cucumber and halloumi salad. The cocktails were great and the staff really helpful, friendly, relaxed yet professional. I’ve had a gastric sleeve and they made the burger look really presentable considering I didn’t have any bread with it. Above & beyond for us

The burger was exceptionally satisfying, and I highly recommend it. They are very professional in handling food intolerances.

Great little burger restaurant, extremely popular so get there early or there is a waiting list. Small menu but all delicious. Definitely on the pricey side (if I could give 4.5 stars I would because of it), but all super tasty. All the burgers are 'smash patties', I personally prefer a traditional thick juicy burger patty, but it's probably personal preference. Absolutely worth a visit when in Bourton, lovely team of staff too.

Incredible restaurant, food was amazing and the service was really nice friendly and left us which was great. The burgers and chicken tenders were sensational the fries were also really good. My 14 yo son a burger connoisseur highly recommends them too. We were walk ins just after 12 today and it was already busy. Will be coming back. They also accept dogs which is great more and more places accepting dogs which is also great.

We were recommended this restaurant for having "maybe the best burgers in the world" and we were not disappointed! We got the Mr P Burger, the Chicken Burger, Cajun fries, and Slaw, and all the food was delicious. The staff were also incredibly nice and really cared about the customer experience. A must visit if you are in the area as it is a league above the other nearby restaurants.

Absolutely great burger. I got the Mr P, with pimento cheese, and it has been the best meal in my four days so far in England. Drinks are good variety, and nice indoor and outdoor seating options. Highly recommend.

Insane experience We got Mr P and Smiths Classic, and they even accommodated to my request of changing the beef patty to chicken patty :) Mr P was heavenly (and lives up to the hype). We liked the Smiths Classic too, but if I were to return, Mr P will definitely be on my order. The burgers were juicy, flavourful, and just feel like a burst of different flavours coming together in your mouth. We also got the Truffle Shuffle fries, which was such a guilty pleasure treat, and the halloumi salad, which I wasn't quite a big fan of, but still worth ordering as a palate cleanser The customer service was great, with the servers patiently waiting for us to finish our food as we were the last table that night. 100% recommend to anyone who's travelling to Bourtons-on-the-Waters!

Best burger I’ve ever had. Can’t go anywhere else now as no other burger compares!! The Mac & Cheese was also phenomenal. Will definitely be coming back when we can ❤️

It was one of the best burgers I ever had. 🤤🤤🤤Simply delicious! ❤️

Since moving to the UK, this has easily been the best meal I’ve had out — and without a doubt, the best burger I’ve ever had anywhere in the world. The beer menu was also excellent. Highly recommended!

After seeing this place on TikTok we knew we had to try it- and we were not disappointed! I had the Mr p burger and it was hands down the best burger I have ever had- juicy, full of flavour, a bit spicy- absolute perfection. Table for 2 , burger each, fries each and some chicken tenders to share- 1 drink each. Total bill £79.20!! Very expensive but we were so glad we got to try it. We arrived in Bourton, found the place, walked in and reserved a table for our required time. When we came back for our table we were seated straight away but they were now some big queues outside. People were waiting a good while for a table so I definitely recommend to walk in and book a table for later in the day. 100 % recommend this place. Get ready for a taste sensation!!

Unreal burgers, I had the bernaise one wow and my husband had the scotch bonnet one. We got Cajun chips and dips to share it was perfect.

Came in on a heavily raining day, feeling a bit glum with an unhappy 9 month old and a dog. Couldn’t have been made to feel more welcome and the staff did their best at every turn to look after us and accommodate. Food was amazing and turned our day around, a must visit if you’re in Bourton. Thank you to everyone who served us! And the gluten free bun on my burger was outstanding, I didn’t miss actual bread for a change!

Lovely food and good portions myself and my partner were full. We would recommend the chicken tenders. Parking can be found further up in the village. Plenty of space but would recommend booking during peak times. Would happily come again.

I had the best burger in my life there. I would recommend anyone to try it. Service and restaurant was good but the Food was something else.I gone quiet once eating my burger and fries,closed my eyes and enjoyed every moment of experience. Whoever created that food mastered their skills and understood nature of food very well.Wow.Thank you.

We’ve been wanting to go here for ages but whenever we were in the Cotswolds there was no availability to book online. We decided to turn up and see if they could do a takeaway order but instead we were immediately seated. This is odd due to the constant no availability online but we were very happy! We ordered a pink lemonade, the Mr P and truffle fries. The burger was good but slightly overhyped we felt! We’d come again to try some other things from the menu.

+3

Good burgers, although having gone for two patties I would probably go for one next time around just to make it a little easier to eat. The Cajun fries were on point and the cucumber salad was also v good. The chicken tenders were a little dry and as a result harder to eat without a dipping sauce. I'd go back for the burgers for sure.

A stunning setting and top-tier burgers, let down slightly by the service. Smiths is located in the beautiful village of Bourton-on-the-Water, easily one of the most charming and visited spots in the Cotswolds. The restaurant itself is set in a striking building that you wouldn’t usually associate with a burger joint — definitely a great first impression. We had a table booked and were seated quickly, though we were only given three menus between the four of us, which was a minor oversight. About 15 minutes later, our drinks order was taken. When asking for some advice between two of the ciders on offer, the waiter simply said he had no idea — not particularly helpful. The drinks then took another 10–15 minutes to arrive, and unfortunately, they weren’t even the ones we ordered. The same waiter took our food order but again couldn’t offer any recommendations or guidance, and his general demeanour gave the impression he wasn’t overly thrilled to be there. A bit of a shame, especially when everything else was looking so promising. Now for the good part — the food. It took around 40 minutes to arrive, which is on the longer side, but to be fair, it was well worth the wait. The burgers were delicious. Three of us went for the Classic and one had the Hot Chick. The flavour, sauce, and quality of ingredients were spot on. Personally, I found the buns a bit too large and would’ve preferred a slightly less well-done patty, but I get that with smash burgers that’s not always an option. Still, they were bordering on overcooked. The cheese skirt on the burgers was a brilliant touch — added loads of flavour and texture. We also tried the Nashville chicken tenders which were good, although not very spicy and could really do with a dip as standard. I paid £1 extra for a sauce which came in the smallest pot known to man — frustrating, to say the least. The loaded dirty tater tots were absolutely fantastic — potentially the best tots I’ve ever had. The mac and cheese was rich, creamy, and generously portioned. Cajun fries were tasty but didn’t particularly stand out. All in all, Smiths delivers some of the best burgers in the Cotswolds — no question. The food is excellent and definitely worth the visit. However, the service didn’t live up to the same standard. With a service charge already included, I chose not to contest it, but it didn’t feel particularly earned — wrong drinks, no guidance, and no check-back on how our meal was. If you’re nearby, absolutely give Smiths a try. The food is fantastic, and despite the service blips, you’re still likely to leave impressed.

One of the best burgers I’ve ever had!! We had high expectations and they really delivered. It did take a while to get our order in and even longer for the food to arrive which let it down a bit, but the food really made up for it. We booked a while ago, but we did have to wait an extra 15mins as our table was still being used. We also sat on the counter seats which weren’t that comfortable so would recommend a table if available.

We loved this place so much! Bourton itself is beautiful and this was the perfect lunch spot - cosy cottage vibes! The burgers were incredible, the best we’ve ever had!! Such unique flavours! Only let down was the chicken tenders, very dry with no crispy coating :( but other than that we loved it!

TLDR - Small portion Fast Food quality food, overpriced - Feeble attempt at fine dining: Worst service ever, cheap decor - Long wait times, yet rarely busy (obviously has a poor reputation) I booked a table here as I appreciate good quality burgers (not available here unfortunately). This fast food joint tries desperately hard to be something it’s not. There is an incredibly pretentious, hostile and unwelcoming atmosphere at this fast food place. Despite booking a table we waited 30 minutes to be seated and then another 30 minutes to be served. Meanwhile customers who had arrived after us were served first. I have never been in such an empty restaurant, at first no background music was playing but then they turned on a cheap Amazon bluetooth speaker to warm us up for their lacklustre burgers. When the food finally arrived it was of poor quality, tiny portion size and overpriced (a McDonald’s burger would have been of higher quality). The cheap bluetooth speaker aside, the decor was incredibly cheap for such a *fine* establishment, cheap plastic frames & fake greenery. I have seen chicken shops that put more effort into their decor. Do not waste your time on this embarrassment of a restaurant(?), it hardly qualifies as a restaurant let alone the fine dining *experience* [sic: nightmare] it so hopelessly flails towards. I have written this review so others do not waste their time or money in such an awful place. If you enjoy fine dining, save yourself the indignity of visiting Smiths Burgers.

Visited Bourton on the Water and was hoping to try Smiths whilst we were here. Naturally we knew the risk of trying to get a table without booking, especially during a busy time of year. But we took our chances and tried anyway. When we got there we were told they were fully booked, however outdoor seating is for non booked visitors and it is first come first served. At this time all tables were occupied, so we had a walk around and came back around 30/40 minutes and secured a seat! However we sat waiting for about 10 minutes with no menus and the dirty dish-ware from previous customers. I headed inside and waited for someone to acknowledge me, when the same guy I spoke to earlier on asked how he could help. I asked if outdoor seating would require coming inside to order, or will someone come to us with a menu etc. His response was really vague and said something along the lines of being fully booked. I explained that we secured a seat outside, as he had earlier explained that we could order if we seated outside. To which he responded bluntly that they had reached full capacity and were no longer serving food. This was all within the space of approximately 40 minutes and there was another table behind us that had just been served. Not to mention they were served by the same man who looked at us as he passed by without acknowledging us. Extremely disappointing, whilst I understand we didn’t have a booking, the ‘rules’ are extremely unclear and the member of staff I spoke to was blunt and rude.