Cleaver & Wake: Sophisticated Urban Dining in Nottingham’s Island Quarter
Experience refined modern British cuisine in a stylish art deco setting beside Nottingham’s scenic canal.
Cleaver & Wake is a stylish, contemporary restaurant located in Nottingham’s vibrant Island Quarter. Known for its elegant art deco-inspired interiors and an open kitchen that showcases culinary craftsmanship, it offers refined modern British cuisine with seasonal menus. The venue combines a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere with attentive service, making it a favored spot for special occasions and intimate gatherings.
A brief summary to Cleaver & Wake
- 1a The Great Northern Cl, Nottingham, NG2 3JL, GB
- +441156601151
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2.5 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Tuesday 5 pm-9 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-9 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-3 pm
- Friday 12 pm-3 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-3 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Book in advance to secure a table, especially for weekend evenings and special events.
- Try the fixed-price evening menu for a well-curated selection of seasonal dishes.
- Enjoy the canal-side terrace area when weather permits for a relaxing pre- or post-dinner drink.
- Inform staff of any dietary restrictions in advance; the kitchen is accommodating and knowledgeable.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Cleaver & Wake location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cleaver & Wake
A Culinary Jewel in Nottingham’s Island Quarter
Nestled in the burgeoning Island Quarter, Cleaver & Wake stands out as a beacon of modern dining sophistication. Opened in 2022, this restaurant occupies a prime canal-side location, offering guests scenic waterside views that complement its urban setting. The venue’s design, crafted by the renowned Macaulay Sinclair studio, balances simplicity and elegance with art deco influences, featuring royal blue velvet furnishings and symmetrical details that create a refined yet welcoming atmosphere.Innovative Cuisine with a Seasonal Focus
At the heart of Cleaver & Wake is its open kitchen, a theatrical centerpiece where diners can observe the culinary team led by Head Chef Hira Thakur in action. The menu eschews tasting menus in favor of thoughtfully curated fixed offerings, showcasing British ingredients with modern twists. Signature dishes include slow-cooked Cornish lamb shoulder with inventive accompaniments and dry-aged British beef fillet medallions, both praised for their depth of flavor and expert preparation. Complementing the mains are creative desserts such as white chocolate cannoli crema and dark chocolate delice with tonka bean cream, delivering a memorable gastronomic experience.Atmosphere and Service That Elevate the Experience
The restaurant’s ambiance is upscale without being intimidating, striking a balance that appeals to both seasoned food lovers and those new to fine dining. Large windows flood the space with natural light by day and frame atmospheric night skies after dark. Service at Cleaver & Wake is noted for its warmth, attentiveness, and professionalism, with staff providing knowledgeable and personable interaction that enhances the overall dining experience.A Venue for Celebrations and Intimate Gatherings
Beyond its role as a restaurant, Cleaver & Wake doubles as a stylish event space, popular for weddings and private celebrations. The venue’s modern sophistication and excellent service make it a sought-after location for special occasions, with guests often praising its accommodating approach and ability to create memorable moments. The presence of a terrace area adds an outdoor dimension, perfect for mingling and enjoying the canal views.Accessibility and Practical Details
Situated at 1a The Great Northern Close, Cleaver & Wake is easily accessible within Nottingham, close to Nottingham Eastcroft train station. The restaurant operates primarily in the evenings with some lunchtime service, offering a flexible dining schedule to suit various plans. While prices reflect its fine dining status, with fixed menus ranging from moderate to premium, the quality of food and service justify the experience.Commitment to Quality and Local Character
Although some diners have noted occasional inconsistencies, Cleaver & Wake maintains a strong reputation for culinary excellence and a commitment to seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Its blend of modern British cooking, stylish setting, and attentive hospitality positions it as a key player in Nottingham’s evolving food scene, attracting those seeking both innovation and comfort in their dining choices.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
16 Stoney Street
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Weekday Cross Monument
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Bunkers Hill
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Citylife UK
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The Hockley Arts Club
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The Tokenhouse
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Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
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A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Watson Fothergill's Office
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Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
St Nic's Church
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Right Lion
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Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Left Lion
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Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Speakers' Corner
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Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
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A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
King's Walk sign
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A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
1.1 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham City Council
0.3 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
0.4 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
National Justice Museum
0.4 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
The Lacehouse
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
0.4 km
A gleaming stainless steel dragon born from community spirit, guarding Sneinton with myth, history, and striking craftsmanship.
Hopkinson
0.4 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
Lace Market
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
City of Caves
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Nottingham Contemporary
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Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
Lace Market Square
0.6 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Sneinton Market
0.6 km
Nottingham's indie creative haven: artisan stalls, vegan feasts, craft brews, and pop-up events in vibrant Sneinton Marketplace.
Sneinton Market Avenues
0.6 km
A compact, creative market quarter in Sneinton where artisan stalls, cafés and regular festivals collide in a colourful, community-driven setting.
Place
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Unit 41 Sneinton Market
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Sneinton Market
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Discover Nottingham’s vibrant Sneinton Market, a lively hub of independent shops, artisan food, and cultural events in a unique open-air setting.
Essential places to dine
Cleaver & Wake
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Experience refined modern British cuisine in a stylish art deco setting beside Nottingham’s scenic canal.
Binks Yard
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ViDa by Lorentes
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Iberico World Tapas
0.4 km
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Annie's Burger Shack
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Pizzamisú
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Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
Bistro Live Nottingham
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Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
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Piccolino Nottingham
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The Pelican Club
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Everyday People
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baresca
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Mesa
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Vi-Va Indian Tapas
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Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
MAISON GB
0.5 km
Discover stylish clothing in Nottingham's Gothic House, a Victorian warehouse on historic Barker Gate amid Lace Market's tanneries, graveyards, and mail coach legacy.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
Luisa's Vegan Chocolates
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s only 100% plant-based, bean-to-bar chocolate shop blending ethical sourcing with award-winning vegan flavors.
Mood Outfitters
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
That Weird Shop
0.6 km
Dive into Nottingham's quirkiest emporium: vinyl, retro toys, alt fashion, and a haunted basement brimming with eerie artifacts and spectral whispers.
Cow Thrift
0.6 km
Dive into Hockley's affordable vintage paradise at COW Thrift, where color-coded bargains and sustainable scores await in a spacious haven of retro prints and one-off gems.
White Rose Hockley WR4
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Stick & Ribbon
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Catori's Gift Shop
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Megan Crook Textiles
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Void Clothing
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Garms Nottingham
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White Rose Hockley WR2
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Cock & Hoop
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Brass Monkey
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Bunk
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The New Castle
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Canalhouse
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Penny Lane
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31K
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Six Barrel Drafthouse
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Pepper Rocks
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Brickworks
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The Cell
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Eleven
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Ocean Nightclub
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Tantra Night Clubs
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Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Bodega Nottingham
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Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
NG-One
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Popworld - Nottingham
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ICON
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Tunnel Club
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VIBES NIGHTLIFE
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Unit 13
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Love zoo
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Stealth
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Rescue Rooms
1.3 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Art Deco Styles
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Waterfront
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly