Our Story
Aqua, Italian inspired neighbourhood restaurants for everyone.
When Richard Smithson opened Aqua Welsh Back in 1998 he created the kind of restaurant everyone wanted to visit - delicious food, excellent drinks and relaxed elegance.
25 years later and with son Ben by his side, Aqua continues to inspire the Bristol food and drinks scene, with three all-day venues to choose from; Aqua Welsh Back, Aqua Portishead and Aqua Whiteladies. At all three locations you can enjoy the Mediterranean experience of being able to enjoy a relaxed coffee, or a 3 course extravaganza - all at the same restaurant.
I am extremely proud to be working alongside my father and maintaining the Aqua standards for 25 years. What has been important to me is creating great relationships, from our loyal guests, partnerships with our local suppliers and most importantly our dedicated teams who put their heart and soul to making the restaurants work. It is my passion to deliver fantastic service and bring impeccable food to everyone. These are very exciting times.
Ben Smithson
