Food & Drink
Top-Rated Restaurants in and Around Blackburn
Blackburn’s restaurant scene is packed with hidden gems, from fine British cuisine to bold Asian flavours and traditional pubs. Here are the top-rated restaurants in and around Blackburn, based on TripAdvisor reviews.
⭐ 1. Scholars Training Restaurant
📍 Feilden Street, Blackburn College, Blackburn BB2 1LN
A fine-dining restaurant run by hospitality students and professionals, Scholars earns praise for exceptional service and beautifully crafted seasonal dishes.
➡️ Must try: Seasonal tasting menu.
⭐ 2. MyLahore Blackburn
📍 98 Whitebirk Road, Blackburn BB1 3HY
This vibrant restaurant fuses Indian street food with Western comfort dishes. With a playful menu and colourful decor, it’s a family favourite for casual dining.
➡️ Must try: Desi Karahi and the Seafood Platter.
⭐ 3. Rishton Arms
📍 Station Road, Rishton, Blackburn BB1 4HF
A welcoming local pub serving comforting British classics. A favourite for Sunday lunches and relaxed evenings with friends.
➡️ Must try: Sunday roast and homemade pies.
⭐ 4. Thira Restaurant
📍 32 Darwen Street, Blackburn BB2 2BY
Thira delivers bold, authentic South Indian flavours, with a focus on Keralan dishes. The vibrant spices and homely service make it a top pick for curry lovers.
➡️ Must try: Keralan Fish Curry and Chicken Chettinad.
⭐ 5. The Foundry
📍 631 Livesey Branch Road, Blackburn BB2 5DQ
A casual spot known for British favourites and inventive specials. The Foundry’s warm atmosphere and hearty portions make it a go-to for locals.
➡️ Must try: Chicken & Chorizo Skewer and Lasagne.
⭐ 6. The Dog Inn, Belthorn
📍 Belthorn Road, Belthorn, Blackburn BB1 2NN
Set in the hills above Blackburn, The Dog Inn offers beautiful countryside views and classic pub dishes. Its Sunday roast is a local legend.
➡️ Must try: Sunday Roast and pan-seared scallops.
⭐ 7. Akbar’s Blackburn
📍 King George’s Hall, Northgate, Blackburn BB2 1AA
Located in the heart of Blackburn, Akbar’s is famous for its bold curries and gigantic naan breads. It’s a lively venue perfect for groups and celebrations.
➡️ Must try: Midweek Feast and sizzling mixed grills.
⭐ 8. Kebabish Original
📍 181–183 Whalley Range, Blackburn BB1 6NL
Known for its smoky grills and rich curries, Kebabish Original is a local favourite for barbecue and hearty comfort food.
➡️ Must try: Mixed Grill Platter and Karahi Chicken.
⭐ 9. Ego at The Knowles Arms
📍 Pleckgate Road, Blackburn BB1 8QW
Combining Mediterranean classics with a cosy pub vibe, Ego offers stone-baked pizzas, chargrilled meats, and a welcoming atmosphere for families and groups.
➡️ Must try: Chicken Milanese and stone-baked pizzas.
⭐ 10. Calypso Caribbean Restaurant
📍 The Wharf Inn, Eanam, Blackburn BB1 5BY
Tucked inside The Wharf Inn, Calypso brings authentic Caribbean dishes to a laid-back canalside setting. Famous for its jerk chicken and flavourful stews.
➡️ Must try: Jerk Chicken and Curried Goat.
Final Thoughts
From elegant British tasting menus to sizzling South Asian grills and Caribbean comfort food, Blackburn’s top-rated restaurants deliver a rich and diverse dining experience. Whether you’re a local or visiting, these much-loved spots are worth exploring.