Where to Eat in Nottingham: Local Favourites Worth Booking
Nottingham has a genuinely great food scene — but it’s far better known for Robin Hood than the food. It’s the kind of place where you can have a brilliant meal if you know where to look… or end up somewhere forgettable if you don’t.
I lived in Nottingham for three years and made my fair share of food mistakes — but also found places I still think about. From no-fuss brunch cafés to upscale dining, these are the meals I’d send any friend to try.
Some are personal favourites, others are local standouts I’ve got on my radar — but all are worth knowing about before you plan your meals.
Breakfast & Brunch in Nottingham
Whether you’re fuelling up for a day of exploring or just after a relaxed morning, these brunch spots cover everything from fry-ups to flat whites. I’ve tried most of these myself — here’s where to eat in Nottingham for breakfast or brunch.
Yolk (Wheeler Gate)
As the name suggests, Yolk focuses on egg-based dishes — expect several versions of poached eggs, and a classic Full English (plus a vegetarian version). I’m a bit obsessed with smashed avocado with eggs, so that tends to be my choice!
The menu is small but done well. It’s compact inside and often busy on weekends, so best to come early or be prepared to wait.
200 Degrees (Flying Horse Walk)
Every time I think about this cafe I start at 360 degrees and then have to look up the real number. But whatever the number, this is my favourite coffee shop in Nottingham. The original location on Flying Horse Walk has a lovely atmosphere, and they serve a solid selection of pastries and light breakfast options.
The real draw is the coffee; they even run a barista school upstairs, so you know they take it seriously. It’s a great spot to recharge mid-morning, and I visit every time I’m in the city.
The Pudding Pantry (City Centre)
If you like options, The Pudding Pantry has one of the biggest breakfast menus on this list – think pancakes, breakfast rolls, a Full English, and even a veggie version of that. It’s very popular, especially at weekends, and the pancakes tend to steal the show.
I still tend to go for smashed avocado and eggs (I am a millennial after all), but I might branch out to American pancakes next time.
They also serve afternoon tea if you’re looking for something a bit more indulgent later in the day.
Josephine’s (City Centre)
Josephine’s is more formal than most brunch spots in Nottingham, but don’t let that put you off — it’s stylish and very Instagrammable inside (even if, like me, you’re terrible at food photos). I had the Eggs Royale here and while it wasn’t the best I’ve had, it was a solid dish.
They also offer afternoon tea, so it’s a good shout if you want somewhere a little dressier or are travelling with family.
Quick Bites & Affordable Eats in Nottingham
Whether you’re out exploring or just want something satisfying without the fuss, these spots are ideal for a casual, tasty meal. I’ve been to most of these myself — some were regular haunts when I lived here.
Zaap Thai
Zaap is located just off Maid Marian Way (Nottingham loves a Robin Hood reference). The whole place is styled like a Thai street market — a bit chaotic, but in the best way. With over 80 dishes on the menu, it’s your best bet for proper Thai food in the city.
There are lots of vegetarian options, though the menu doesn’t clearly mark vegan dishes, so it’s worth asking. They don’t take bookings, but you can click and collect if you’re in a rush or don’t fancy waiting.
The Cod’s Scallops (Multiple Locations)
If you’re after fish and chips, skip the city centre chains and head to The Cod’s Scallops. The menu changes depending on what’s been freshly caught, and you can choose to have your fish fried or baked.
It’s almost entirely seafood-focused – there are a couple of pies, but not much else for non-fish eaters – so it won’t suit every palate. Cod and chips is the classic, but they also have options like hake and plaice.
They’ve got a few locations just outside the centre (Wollaton, Sherwood, and West Bridgford), so you’ll need to hop on a bus or drive.
The Malt Cross (St James’s Street)
The Malt Cross is a Nottingham institution – I used to visit with friends regularly when I lived there. It’s more of a bar than a restaurant. The kitchen has limited hours, but turns out good casual food when it’s open. Ask about the pie of the week or try a couple of small plates.
Just double-check food service times before you go; they don’t always match the bar hours. It’s a good option if you want somewhere relaxed with a bit of atmosphere.
Relaxed Dinner Spots in Nottingham
If you’re looking for a proper sit-down meal without going full fine dining, these restaurants are some of the best options for where to eat in Nottingham. I’ve eaten at most of these myself, and they’re all places I’d happily recommend to visitors.
Iberico World Tapas (Lace Market)
Tucked next to the National Justice Museum, Iberico World Tapas has a Michelin Bib Gourmand for good reason. You’ll find Spanish staples like patatas bravas alongside Asian-inspired plates such as tuna tataki.
The wine list is as interesting as the menu, with bottles from Croatia and North Macedonia as well as the more traditional wine countries. I didn’t even know North Macedonia made wine so I had to try it out! Iberico is an easy recommendation if you want a slightly more elevated meal that still feels relaxed.
They also have an excellent value express menu if you can make an early appearance on a weekday evening or Saturday afternoon – check their website for the details.
Bar Iberico (Hockley)
Bar Iberico is the more casual sibling of Iberico World Tapas, serving classic Spanish tapas in the heart of Hockley. Think sangria with padron peppers, jamón croquetas, and Spanish tortilla, followed by churros or a custard tart. There’s also outdoor seating for sunny-day people-watching.
They only take bookings for groups of eight or more, so most diners just walk in – be prepared for a short wait at busy times. Their express menu is excellent value for afternoon diners, but check the website for time restrictions, and arrive early enough to order before the cut-off if you need to queue.
Piccolino (Lace Market)
An Italian chain done well, Piccolino’s Nottingham branch in the Lace Market has been consistently good in my experience. I’ve tried several of their pasta dishes, and even ordered their chicken with truffle gnocchi via Uber Eats on my most recent trip (I was feeling supremely lazy that day!).
The menu is varied, with something for everyone, and the atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly. One unusual touch is their Adventurous Bambini menu, offering child-sized portions of main menu dishes alongside a simpler kids’ menu.
Red Dog Saloon (City Centre)
Most attempts in the UK to replicate American BBQ joints fall rather flat, but Red Dog Saloon was created by someone who spent a lot of time in Austin, Texas.
So, this isn’t just about burgers slathered with BBQ sauce (although they do have a range of burgers on the menu), but rather smoked meats with sides such as collard greens and burnt ends mash.
The drinks menu has an extensive list of bourbon, tequila and mezcal. If you are looking for something a little different, then this is probably the closest I’ve gotten to real American BBQ since my USA road trip.
He has now expanded to 6 restaurants around the country, including the Nottingham city centre site.
Browns (City Centre)
Browns is another small chain of restaurants, but I have eaten at the Nottingham city centre location several times and the modern British food and service are always great. The photo above is of a cozy small dining area at the front of the restaurant, away from their main dining room.
I usually order from their fish and seafood list, and almost always have their crème brûlée for dessert. They also have a great breakfast and brunch menu served until midday, or a bottomless brunch until 2pm at weekends.
Also, don’t be alarmed if you see lots of police cars outside Browns – there is a police station around the corner and a lot of the station’s vehicles park on the street around the restaurant!
Also Worth Mentioning
If you’re after a really good steak or an upmarket Sunday roast, Marco Pierre White Steakhouse in Nottingham delivers both. While it’s part of a chain, the quality is high – especially the steaks – and the setting feels special without being overly formal.
Fine Dining & Special Occasion Restaurants in Nottingham
If you’re looking for fine dining in Nottingham, the city has a small but impressive line-up of award-winning restaurants. From Michelin-starred tasting menus to modern British cooking in sleek settings, these spots are ideal for celebrating a special occasion or treating yourself to something memorable.
Restaurant Sat Bains (Lenton)
Restaurant Sat Bains is Nottingham’s only restaurant with two Michelin stars. The main restaurant room primarily serves elaborate tasting menus. Diners can also try a smaller three-course dinner in the Tasting Room or Kitchen Bench.
Book well ahead – tables are limited and the location is just outside the centre.
Alchemilla (Derby Road)
Set in a former Victorian coach house, Alchemilla has one Michelin star and focuses heavily on plant-based dishes, though meat features too. The tasting menus highlight British seasonal ingredients with creative techniques.
Just be aware that fermentation and pickling of ingredients plays a part in many dishes, and as the restaurant only has tasting menus and no à la carte options, this may not be to everyone’s taste.
Cleaver & Wake
A newer addition to Nottingham’s dining scene, offering a seasonal set menu in an open kitchen setting. They offer a set price 2 or 3 course menu, and although it is towards the pricier end of the scale it’s not as expensive as Alchemilla or Restaurant Sat Bains.
The menu is updated seasonally, but the cod main and the chocolate delice I had were amazing. The staff were helpful with their suggestions and it was overall a delicious and fairly relaxed experience.
I managed to get a last-minute table on a weeknight, but you’ll need to plan further ahead on Fridays and Saturdays.
Where To Stay
For a full recommendation of Nottingham accommodation options check out my guide to the best hotels in Nottingham.
📍Leonardo Hotel is about a 15 minute walk from the Lace Market area, but very close to the train station and across the road from Cleaver and Wake.
📍Hart’s Kitchen and Hotel is a great place to stay. The rooms are modern and comfortable and it is a short walk to Old Market Square!
Next Steps for Your Nottingham Experience
As you can see, there’s no shortage of great places to eat in Nottingham, whether you’re here for a quick city break or a longer stay. From cosy brunch spots to the best restaurants in Nottingham for special occasions, there’s something to suit every mood and budget.
If you’re planning your trip, you might also like my Guide to a Weekend in Nottingham, which combines sightseeing, dining, and a few hidden gems into an easy itinerary. If you’re still deciding whether to come, my full guide on whether Nottingham is worth visiting breaks down the pros and cons so you can make the call.
For more trip inspiration, I’ve rounded up the best things to do in Nottingham and reviewed my favourite hotels in Nottingham so you can plan your stay from start to finish.
Discover more about the city in my full Nottingham Travel Hub.
🇬🇧 Want more inspiration for exploring Britain? I’ve gathered all my UK travel posts in one place.
