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Located in the iconic Empire building at the edge of Bath’s Parade Gardens, The Architect delivers an elegant dining experience that feels both elevated and warm. On a previous visit, we were struck by the quality of the food and the distinctive grandeur of the space — this time, returning as a large family group of sixteen, we were eager to see how well the venue would accommodate a celebratory dinner on a much bigger scale.
Setting the Scene: Grandeur and Character in Every Corner
Housed in a heritage building with an illustrious history, The Architect retains all the architectural drama of its setting. High ceilings soar above intricate mouldings and tall windows that pour in natural light by day and showcase the city’s glow by night. Each area of the restaurant has a clear identity; from the inviting front bar and reception area to the bright, plant-lined orangery (or sun room), a lively drinking area, and the main dining room where our party was seated.
The Reception Area
The Bar Area
The Main Dining Area
The main dining area is nothing short of impressive. Decorated with tasteful lighting and a mix of traditional and modern design elements, the space carries its name with justified pride. We were seated at two long rectangular tables arranged side-by-side, eight guests per table. These were taller than usual, almost counter height, with matching high chairs. A built-in wooden footrest ran the length beneath each table, though a solid block-like support structure made it tricky to get seated comfortably or to place your feet without adjusting. Still, the seating was generous and allowed for good interaction across the table, perfect for a family gathering.
More photos of the main dining area in our previous article, The Architect, Bath at the Empire.
A Feast for Sixteen: Starters to Share and Mains to Remember
Given the size of our party, we made it a point to prebook and requested to be seated together. Despite it being graduation season — the city of Bath teeming with celebrating students and proud families, the team at The Architect ensured we had our tables for the evening without any pressure to vacate. The staff were attentive from the start, accommodating our group with grace and even offering to take family photos, which added a thoughtful and personal touch to the evening.
Our meal began with selections from the Small Plates section of the menu, offering plenty of variety:
- Carrot and ginger soup, served with a warm sourdough roll — a comforting start, velvety and lightly spiced.
- Potted chalk stream trout on toasted sourdough — fresh and delicately seasoned.
- King prawn cocktail, presented with buttered seeded bread — a retro classic made vibrant.
- Sautéed wild mushrooms with garlic, spinach, truffle oil, and toasted ciabatta — rich and earthy, one of the favourites among the vegetarians.
- Chicken wings with Gochujang ketchup — sticky, tangy, and just the right amount of heat.
- Crispy squid with sweet chilli mango — light, crisp and perfectly balanced with the zingy sauce.
Photo of King Prawn Cocktail.
Photos of Chicken Wings with Gochujang Sauce, Sautéed Wild Mushrooms and Potted Chalk Stream Trout.
When it came to the Large Plates, our group went in several directions thanks to the diversity of the menu:
- Crispy beef salad with sweet chilli sauce and roasted cashews — a fresh yet indulgent dish with great texture.
- Pan-fried chicken breast with gorgonzola gnocchi, smoked pancetta, mushrooms, and a white wine sauce — rich and satisfying, layered with flavour.
- 8oz British sirloin (28-day dry-aged) steak — served classically with pepper sauce, grilled tomato, portobello mushroom, and chunky chips. Cooked to perfection.
- Seared salmon with feta, olives, tomato salad, and red pepper hummus — light, Mediterranean-inspired and beautifully plated.
- Buttercross Farm pork and apple sausages with mash, greens and gravy — a comforting, hearty British classic done exceptionally well.
Photo of Sirloin steak.
Photos of Crispy Beef Salad and Seared Salmon.
Photos of Pan Fried Chicken and Buttercross Farm pork and apple sausages.
These are not the only dishes we ordered. They are only the ones from our table.
Service, Space and Atmosphere: A Place That Holds the Moment
What stood out beyond the food was the way the evening unfolded with such ease. Though the restaurant was bustling — filled with graduates in gowns and families in high spirits — the service never faltered. After our drinks, jugs of water appeared at the table unprompted. There was no sense of rush, no pressure to turn the tables. We were made to feel like our gathering mattered — a rare and welcome quality in a busy city centre venue.
We lingered comfortably through dessert, conversation and celebration. The spaciousness of the dining area gave everyone room to breathe, while the sense of occasion made it feel special. From the thoughtful staff to the lively yet relaxed atmosphere, The Architect proved again why it remains a standout dining destination in Bath.
Final Thoughts
Bringing together sixteen people under one roof for a celebratory meal can be a logistical challenge — The Architectmet that challenge with style and substance. The high ceilings, elegant interiors and welcoming team made the space feel grand without being formal. The menu offered something for every taste, and the quality of food was consistent across starters and mains alike.
For anyone planning a special gathering in Bath — especially during busy seasons like graduations or holidays — The Architect is more than up to the task. It’s a place that elevates the everyday and honours the occasion.
Location Information
Address:
The Architect
The Empire
Orange Grove
Bath
Somerset
BA1 1LP
Tel: 01225 439610
Web: www.thearchitectbath.co.uk
