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City dining guide

Best restaurants in Nottingham

12 guide-listed restaurants — Michelin, Bib Gourmand, Black Pearl, Must-Eat List, World's 50 Best and more. Reference quality signals; never ranked by commission, no in-app checkout.

Michelin-starred 3

Restaurant Sat Bains

★★ Michelin££££Creative

This restaurant has become quite the operation over the years, what with its main dining room, Tasting Room, Kitchen Bench, bedrooms, garden and even its own bees. Sat Bains has an unerring commitment to well-sourced produce, both from his own garden and around the British Isles; fresh, snow-white crab is a great example, enhanced by the ingenious accompaniments of dashi jelly and a rich bisque infused with star anise. Whatever the dish, it will be as punchy as it is good looking. You're guided smoothly through the whole experience by the genial, well-versed service team.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 100 reviews

Restaurant Sat Bains in Beeston is renowned for its creative cuisine and high ratings. Most reviews praise the exceptional service, food quality, and atmosphere, particularly highlighting the immersive chef's table experience where courses are perfectly paired with wines. However, a minority of guests reported dissatisfaction with meal pacing, feeling pressured by staff, and finding some dishes uninspired or dated. While a few reviewers questioned the value and flexibility of bookings, the consensus remains that the restaurant delivers a sophisticated dining experience. It is best suited for travelers seeking high-quality culinary artistry and attentive service, though those sensitive to strict timing or traditional fine-dining pressures may want to manage expectations.

Ideal for diners seeking refined creative cuisine and attentive service, with advance booking recommended.

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alchemilla

★ Michelin££££Modern British

Alchemilla occupies the red-brick vaulted arches of a Victorian carriage house, yet despite its rustic first impression, it’s a modern place. A living wall and roof garden set the scene for Head Chef Alex Bond's inspired, exciting cooking that utilises sustainably sourced ingredients. As well as injecting plenty of his own personality into the dishes, he has an innate skill for bringing together sweet, sour, salty and citrus elements in wonderful harmony; his aged hogget with roasted lemon, aubergine and black olive is a prime example. The esoteric wine list has a bias towards natural wines.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews

Housed in a converted stable with brick arches and glass ceilings, Alchemilla offers a distinctive modern British dining experience in Nottingham. Service is consistently praised for being professional, warm, and attentive to dietary requirements. The menu centers on multi-course tasting options, featuring experimental techniques. While many reviewers highlight exceptional flavor and presentation, others criticize the food for prioritizing style over substance, noting issues with excessive saltiness or smoky flavors. Ambiance is dramatic yet intimate, particularly at the kitchen table. Reviews are polarized regarding value and taste consistency, making it a niche choice.

Suitable for adventurous diners seeking avant-garde cuisine and immersive atmospheric experiences.

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John's House

★ Michelin££££Modern Cuisine

The eponymous John was raised right here on the family farm and now provides excellent field-to-fork dining inside its 16th-century farmhouse. His brother Tom looks after the 400-acre estate, which provides herbs, vegetables, fruits and multiple meats that inform and inspire the tasting menus. The kitchen has the skill to let these flavours shine, in dishes that come with a personal and playful touch – such as a take on classic duck pancakes. You start with drinks on the ground floor and are then shown upstairs to the rustic restaurant with its exposed bricks and beams.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 100 reviews

Located in Mountsorrel, John's House is a modern cuisine establishment holding a Michelin star. Reviews highlight creative dishes, excellent flavor combinations, and meticulous presentation, with homemade bread receiving specific praise. The ambiance is described as rustic, cozy, and relaxed. While the majority of guests commend the consistent food quality and accommodating service for dietary requirements, a minority report issues with meal pacing, temperature control, or isolated hygiene incidents. Overall, it offers a refined dining experience characterized by high culinary standards and attentive staff, suitable for travelers seeking quality modern gastronomy.

Suitable for diners seeking high-quality modern cuisine and attentive service.

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Bib Gourmand 4

Piccalilli

Bib Gourmand££Modern British

Being hidden down an alleyway and up some stairs in the centre of Nottingham, you’ll need to follow your map closely to find this rustic restaurant in a lovely period building – think exposed brickwork, timbers and dried flowers hanging on the wall. Cooking-wise it’s all about small plates, with three to four per person about right; these dishes show off recognisable flavour combinations executed with aplomb, like ham fritters with the eponymous piccalilli. The wine list is concise but carefully curated, with quality choices at a fair price.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 51 reviews

Piccalilli offers Modern British cuisine in Nottingham city centre, holding a 4.6/5 average from 51 TripAdvisor reviews. Positive feedback highlights friendly service, fresh ingredients, and a pleasant atmosphere, with guests appreciating the creative menu and open kitchen view. Criticisms focus on inconsistent meal pacing, cramped seating causing noise, and occasional service or organizational errors. While some noted issues with portion sizes or value, most visitors consider it a strong independent option suitable for those seeking authentic flavors and a relaxed dining environment.

Suitable for diners seeking authentic Modern British cuisine and a relaxed atmosphere; confirm booking details in advance.

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Kushi-Ya

Bib Gourmand££Japanese

Head through the arch of Enfield Chambers and you'll be transported to this uber-cool setting. The Japanese cooking revolves around small plates and skewers, cooked over a charcoal grill with consummate skill. Bright, authentic and generous, each dish is a joy to eat and sensibly priced too. If you're coming for lunch, get here early as they don't take bookings and the lunchtime offer is phenomenally good value. Efficient service, a dynamic atmosphere and a courtyard terrace all add to the already considerable appeal.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews

Kushi-Ya is a Japanese restaurant located in a courtyard on High Pavement, Nottingham. Food quality is generally praised, with standout dishes including prawn toast, miso pork chop, and sashimi, though some guests found items like sausages unappealing or portions small. Service is typically friendly and efficient, although occasional delays and communication issues were noted. The atmosphere is modern and welcoming, featuring communal seating options. Value for money receives mixed reviews; while some find it reasonable, others consider it overpriced for the portion sizes. It suits diners seeking authentic Japanese flavors in a stylish setting, but booking ahead is advisable due to popularity.

Suitable for diners seeking authentic Japanese flavors in a modern setting; booking ahead is recommended.

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Ibérico World Tapas

Bib Gourmand££Mediterranean Cuisine

Hidden in the basement of the old city law courts and jail is this friendly, long-standing restaurant which comes with a vaulted ceiling, colourful tiling and ornate fretwork. The menu is just as interesting, living up to its name with dishes that incorporate elements from yuzu to dukkah alongside the firmly Mediterranean base. Around four dishes per person is about right, with the 'gambas a la plancha' well worth an order. The ‘Express’ menu available on midweek early evenings represents great value.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews

Located in central Nottingham, Ibérico World Tapas features a distinctive domed basement setting. The cuisine blends Spanish and global flavors through shared small plates and set menus. While many praise the fresh ingredients and knowledgeable staff who guide the dining pace, some recent reviews note inconsistencies, such as fatty Iberico ham or reduced seafood options. Service is generally attentive but can suffer from delays or perceived coldness during busy periods. The atmosphere is widely regarded as pleasant, though occasional complaints highlight issues with meal pacing and basic service standards. It remains a notable spot for tapas enthusiasts, despite mixed feedback on consistency.

Suitable for diners seeking fusion tapas and ambiance who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.

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The Reindeer

Bib Gourmand££Traditional British

You’ll find this friendly village pub with a bright, modern feel tucked away down a narrow country lane. When it comes to the cooking, things are hearteningly traditional, with eternal favourites like bangers and mash – along with daily specials – cooked with great care and using quality ingredients, resulting in straightforward, flavour-packed food. 'Pie night' – with weekly changing filling choices – and a proper Sunday roast add to the appeal, as do charming service and a prime view of the local cricket pitch.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews

The Reindeer in Hoveringham is a traditional British pub averaging 4.3/5 stars. Food quality is generally praised, with items like fish pie, burgers, and Sunday roasts noted for taste and generous portions, though some recent reviews cite declining standards, bland vegetables, or smaller servings. Service is highlighted for being friendly and welcoming, particularly by staff like Becca, but can be slow during peak times. The atmosphere features modern decor with agricultural and cricket pitch views, including an outdoor area with blankets. While occasional complaints mention crowding and value concerns, the pub remains a highly recommended destination for its consistent hospitality and scenic setting.

Ideal for travelers seeking a traditional countryside experience and hearty mains, best visited during off-peak hours.

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Other guide picks 5

Raymond's

££Modern British, Sharing

In the heart of the city’s historic Lace Market neighbourhood, you’ll find this fun and welcoming restaurant that could scarcely be more on-trend. Sharing plates, counter seating, moody lighting, stylishly understated décor… it’s got the lot – and judging by the buzz it’s a recipe for success. Start with the fish crackling if you can, a totally addictive snack that sets the tone perfectly for a menu of immensely satisfying dishes. The wine list adds to the experience, with an interesting selection and a pleasingly large choice by the glass.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 52 reviews

Raymond's offers Modern British sharing cuisine in Nottingham, holding a 4.4/5 rating. Food quality is a standout feature, with reviewers praising pork, lamb, scallops, and oysters for their preparation and generous portions. The atmosphere is described as comfortable and well-spaced, suitable for people-watching or family gatherings. Service is generally friendly but receives criticism for inconsistent pacing, long wait times, and occasional errors. Value perceptions vary, with some finding it reasonable while others feel it is overpriced. It is best suited for diners seeking a social, share-style meal with high-quality ingredients.

Ideal for diners who enjoy sharing plates, prioritize ingredient quality, and can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.

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The Martins Arms

££Traditional British

After a change of ownership, this fine rural inn has got a spring back in its step, while preserving some of the best elements from its historic past. The carved Jacobean fireplace in the bar, for example, is still in situ – along with a more formal dining room and suntrap terrace. The cooking draws on hearty pub fare like ham hock and piccalilli; as an alternative to dessert, why not order the local stilton? There are only six dairies in the world licensed to make this cheese, and one of them is right here in Colston Basset – so it would be rude not to!

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Hammer & Pincers

£££Modern British

The old water pump out the back hints at its days as the village forge but this is now a brightly decorated, intimate restaurant run with natural warmth by its experienced owners. The seasonally minded tasting menu is composed of ambitious, creative dishes overflowing with different flavours and textures; if you're lucky, it might include the excellent beef Wellington, which is presented and sliced at the table for a welcome bit of theatre. Boutique bedrooms are available if you're exploring the area.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews

Hammer & Pincers in East Leake serves Modern British cuisine, holding a 4.9/5 rating from 80 TripAdvisor reviews. Guests consistently praise the high food quality, attentive service, and cozy atmosphere. The weekly evolving menu offers excellent value, particularly for lunch. While rare critiques mention pacing or conservative dishes, the overall experience is regarded as Michelin-level yet approachable, making it a top choice for discerning diners seeking refined hospitality.

Ideal for diners seeking high-quality Modern British cuisine and attentive service.

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Jericho

££££Modern Cuisine

This rustic and rural restaurant in the Vale of Belvoir is located on the farmstead where Chef-Owner Richard grew up, divided across two buildings constructed using reclaimed materials from the farm. The menu takes a surprise tasting format, with an extended series of generous, heartily flavoured courses that often involve cooking over wood. Richard’s cuisine is informed by his surroundings, with game and kitchen-garden vegetables playing a particularly big role. The wine list has a similar ethos, with natural, organic and bio-dynamic options.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews

Jericho holds a 4.1/5 rating from 80 reviews. Service and food quality are primary strengths, with guests praising friendly staff and a pleasant atmosphere. However, negative feedback highlights value concerns, citing small portions and high costs. Some reviews criticize specific items like hard bread or poor burger quality. Despite these issues, its popularity suggests consistent overall quality, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a comfortable dining environment in Oxford.

Suitable for diners prioritizing service and ambiance over strict budget constraints.

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Darleys

££Modern Cuisine

Located in the old canteen of a 19th-century silk mill, Darleys is a stylish place with eye-catching décor and a pleasantly light feel. It also sits beside the river, so ask for a table either on the narrow terrace or beside the window on the upper level to make the most of the great view out over the weir. The appealing, generously proportioned cooking covers all bases: a few small and large plates ideal for sharing; produce cooked over the wood fire, be it chicken or aubergine; some pasta dishes; and a wide choice of steaks, including tomahawk for two.

TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews

Darleys in Anlaby offers modern cuisine with an average TripAdvisor rating of 4.3/5 based on 80 reviews. Positive feedback frequently highlights excellent service and food quality, with staff described as welcoming, helpful, and cheerful. The atmosphere is noted as warm and clean, suitable for families and regular gatherings like weekly quizzes. However, negative reviews cite inconsistent food quality, including poorly prepared vegetarian lasagne and undercooked meat, alongside occasional rude service and noise from children. Some guests also reported issues with missing items due to recalls without adequate alternatives. Despite these criticisms, the majority of visitors appreciate the friendly staff and decent pub-style meals, making it a generally favored spot for casual dining.

Suitable for families seeking friendly service and a comfortable atmosphere, but avoid peak times and verify menu availability.

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