Sonny Stores

The story

Sonny Stores: Seasonal Italian Dining in Bristol’s Southville

The Kitchen and Origins

Located in Southville, Bristol, Sonny Stores serves seasonal Italian fare that prioritises honest technique over theatrical presentation. Founded in 2020 by Mary Glynn and chef Pegs Quinn, the kitchen began as a shared ambition to serve well-made meals. Quinn brings years of professional experience, including a four-year tenure at London’s River Café, which still shapes the team’s focus on fresh harvests alongside Head Chef Cai. They update the menu every week, earning quiet respect and a 2026 Good Food Guide commendation.

Standout Plates and Seasonal Rotations

Diners visiting this Italian kitchen can expect shifting dishes that highlight local ingredients rather than rigid tradition. A recent menu featured tagliatelle tossed with buffalo butter, Cantabrian anchovies, and parsley, while the roasted cod arrived simmered in a clam broth served over toasted bread. Antipasti selections often include large Nocellara olives or seabass cured with Amalfi lemon and chilli. These careful combinations reflect a team that values texture and balance over heavy sauces.

The Room and Ambience

The venue occupies a former corner shop where contemporary design meets comfortable familiarity. Bright rooms feature terrazzo floors, scattered greenery, and a hand-painted sunflower above the entrance. Guests frequently note how the layout resembles a private living room, a feeling reinforced by the addition of a dedicated dining space in 2025. Families and groups also gather on the external decking, where dogs are regularly welcomed.