Best Restaurants in East Midlands

Zaap Thai Street Food in Nottingham offers a vibrant, bustling dining experience that transports you to the lively streets of Bangkok. With over 80 authentic Thai street food dishes, from spicy Tom Yum soups to rich Massaman curries, this restaurant blends traditional flavors with quirky, engaging decor including seating in a converted tuk tuk. Known for generous portions and friendly service, Zaap provides an immersive taste of Thailand’s street food culture in the heart of the UK.

A quintessentially English country house hotel set on a peninsula jutting into Rutland Water, Hambleton Hall combines Victorian elegance with contemporary comfort. This intimate 17-bedroom retreat has held a Michelin star since 1982—the longest continuously held in the UK—and offers exceptional fine dining under head chef Aaron Patterson, alongside immaculate grounds, traditional country pursuits, and personalised service that treats guests as house visitors rather than paying customers.

Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms is a distinguished two Michelin-starred dining destination in Nottingham, known for its innovative modern European cuisine and immersive tasting menus. Set in a converted stable with elegant rooms, it offers a unique blend of culinary artistry, attentive service, and a tranquil atmosphere. The restaurant features a kitchen bench experience, a garden supplying fresh produce, and expertly paired wines, making it a must-visit for food connoisseurs seeking a refined and memorable gastronomic journey.

John's House is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant located on Stonehurst Farm in Mountsorrel, Leicestershire. Set within a rustic 16th-century farmhouse, it offers refined, seasonal tasting menus inspired by local, farm-fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding 400-acre estate. The intimate, homely atmosphere combines exposed brick and wooden beams with attentive, informal service, making it a celebrated destination for exceptional British cuisine with a farm-to-plate ethos.

Alchemilla is a Michelin-starred fine dining restaurant located in the atmospheric red-brick cellar of a Victorian coach house on Derby Road, Nottingham. Led by chef Alex Bond, it offers a creative tasting menu that masterfully blends British and European influences with East Asian flavors, emphasizing sustainably sourced ingredients. The setting’s rustic vaulted arches contrast with modern design touches, creating a unique dining experience that balances tradition and innovation.

No.Twelve is a cozy, highly acclaimed vegan restaurant located in Eldon Chambers on Wheeler Gate, Nottingham. Known for its inventive plant-based menu crafted by a former Jamie’s Italian chef, it offers a warm atmosphere with exceptional food and attentive service. Open Wednesday to Saturday evenings, it’s a must-visit for vegans and vegetarians seeking creative, flavorful dining in Nottingham’s city center.

Darleys Restaurant & Terrace is a stylish contemporary British dining venue set in the historic Darley Abbey Mill by the River Derwent in Derby. Known for its seasonal menus, tasting options, and scenic waterfront views, it combines fine dining with a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes focusing on local produce, alongside an extensive wine list and cocktails, making it a notable culinary destination in Derbyshire.

Yamas Meze & Tapas, located in Nottingham city centre, offers a vibrant dining experience inspired by Greek, Spanish, and Moroccan cuisines. Known for its warm, family-run atmosphere and extensive menu featuring gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, Yamas invites guests to share a variety of freshly prepared meze and tapas dishes. With generous portions, a lively ambiance, and a popular midday lunch deal, it’s a beloved spot for both casual meals and special occasions.

Ciao Bella in Mansfield offers a lively Italian dining experience with a diverse menu ranging from authentic Italian dishes to casual lounge fare. Located in the historic Cattle Market House on Nottingham Road, it combines a welcoming atmosphere with modern decor, making it a favorite for locals and visitors seeking quality food and friendly service in a relaxed setting.

Hammer & Pincers is a celebrated modern British restaurant located in the village of Wymeswold near Loughborough. Housed in a former village forge, it blends historic charm with a stylish interior to offer a creative, seasonal menu praised for its refined flavors and artistic presentation. The restaurant features tasting and grazing menus with expertly paired wines, alongside boutique guest rooms, making it a destination for memorable culinary experiences in a welcoming atmosphere.