As summer approaches and temperatures in Gloucester climb toward 30°C, there’s a new dining destination that promises great food paired with charming waterside views: Ribchic’s, the city’s newest floating restaurant docked in the Gloucester Docks.
I had the privilege of experiencing Ribchic’s during a sneak preview before its official opening this weekend. One clear takeaway? Arrive hungry and ready to indulge.
Ribchic’s offers a rotating four-course tasting menu, changing weekly over a four-week cycle to keep things fresh and exciting. Whether you prefer classic family favourites, spice-infused dishes, fresh seafood, or traditional British fare, there’s something perfectly suited for every palate.
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Owner Mark Hyland transformed a 75-foot-long, 115-year-old steel barge—acquired nearly a decade ago from a family in Stourport—into this inviting floating restaurant. His dedication shines through in every detail, demonstrating a passion for family cooking at the heart of each menu.
During my tasting, I was treated to five courses representing Ribchic’s diverse themes: hearty meatballs and crispy roast potatoes, vegetable samosas and prawn madras with flaky Paratha bread, creamy Fisherman’s chowder pasta, and a British heritage menu featuring steak pie and succulent chicken wings.
Highlighting every dish are Mark’s expertly crafted house-made sauces, designed to elevate each bite. The Caribbean BBQ dip adds a fruity kick to the double-crisp chicken wings, while the Tartare sauce perfectly complements the golden fried Basa fish. The South African BBQ chicken, coated in Mark’s mother’s sweet and sticky BBQ sauce, was a standout that left me wishing it could be bottled.
Each course arrives in a sleek steel bento box, perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself, depending on your appetite. This creative presentation pairs wonderfully with the floating setting, making Ribchic’s dining experience as memorable as the food itself.
At just £25 for the four-course menu, Ribchic’s is an affordable indulgence that also welcomes your own drinks—BYOB with no corkage fee. Soft drinks and mocktails are available for those who prefer something ready-made.
Opening this Saturday, May 23, Ribchic’s will operate Friday through Sunday initially. Mark hopes to expand to midweek takeaways soon, giving Gloucester food lovers even more reasons to visit.
If you’re in Gloucester this weekend, head to Gloucester Docks near Gloucester Brewery to experience Ribchic’s – where family-inspired flavours float alongside a unique dining atmosphere.