Deciding where to go for a dinner date can be tricky – different dates require different vibes after all. Luckily, Notts is filled with so many amazing, secret food spots that we’re literally spoiled for choice. So, in the name of serious journalism (and because I spend all my money on eating out even when I have a stocked up fridge) I decided to spend 2 weeks going out for food and picking out the most unique places to impress your date with.
- SEXY MAMA LOVES SPAGHETTI
First on my list is Sexy Mama, a truly unique Italian. Hidden in the centre of Hockley, you could be forgiven for walking past it without ever realising it’s there. With only about 6 tables inside, it is an incredibly intimate romantic spot; inside, the lights are dim and candles flicker on every table as smooth Italian music plays quietly. The menu changes almost daily and although it isn’t long, everything they do they do well. It is arguably the closest you can get to proper Italian food outside of Italy. The selection of wine isn’t too shabby either. The only problem is you do pay the price for the luxury, so it might be one to save for a really special occasion. Oh, and don’t forget to book in advance; you won’t get in without a reservation on the weekend!
- CROSS KEYS
Nestled in the heart of Hockley next to the Bowery Club you’ll find Cross Keys. It’s a true example of ‘don’t judge a book by its cover’ – although from the outside it does not look too inviting, once you’re inside it’s totally different. If you want a relaxed spot for your date night, this is the place to go. With incredible ales and amazing food, something is sure to take your fancy here. The selection of food varies from risotto to the cut of the day, and the burgers are brilliant – try the Bacon, Brie and Cranberry burger if you fancy trying something different. And give the English Pale Ale a try too.
- SPANKY’S
If you’re looking for a hip place to take your date which will trick them into thinking you’re cooler than you are, go to Spanky’s. Not only are the burgers well-thought through (with plenty of veggie options), but you can play some video games or hit the pin-ball machine while you wait. The décor’s not too bad either – there’s a definite retro vibe to it and cute fairy-lights all around.
- ALCHEMILLA
£35 a head minimum might not sound too convincing, but if you want to take someone out for a real fine-dining treat then this is the place to go in Notts. For the price, you’ll get a five course meal based around seasonal vegetables and fruits. Unusually set in a former Victorian Coach house, this is the place to go if you want an out of the ordinary taste-bud experience.
- BARESCA
A funky tapas place, come here for good Sangria and Spanish flavours. Another place with a relaxed vibe, it’s the perfect place for a laid back date and to top it off, everything here is freshly cooked. Don’t go without trying their halloumi fries and remember that sharing is caring.
- HIGOI
Hidden away on Lenton Boulevard, people often walk past it without even realising. But they definitely shouldn’t, because inside you’d find a truly genuine Japanese food restaurant – it sticks to the traditions so much that there’s even an option to enjoy your sushi sitting cross-legged on the floor!
- ZAAP
Another authentic place to get Asian food, Zaap is the place to get Thai street food. Although it’s not as romantic, it’s a slightly funkier place to go. Sit on a ‘tuk-tuk’ while you enjoy your Pad Nam Prik Pao and imagine you’re actually in Thailand, and not stuck in Notts with a dissertation to write…
- SARANGCHAE
If you fancy Korean food, this is the place to go! Not quite in the city centre, situated on Huntingdon Street, you can find yourself in a cosy, local restaurant with welcoming staff and authentic Korean flavours. With a vast menu, it would be best to go to this place on a double date so you can try more dishes and everyone can dip in as they like.
Edited By Niamh Perry
Sources
https://www.leftlion.co.uk/read/2017/june/noshingham-sexy-mama-love-spag…
http://www.godine.co.uk/cross-keys-nottingham
http://www.keytothecity.co.uk/bar.php?Id=568&CityId=16&From=Key&Enabled=No
http://www.olivemagazine.com/restaurants/east-midlands/alchemilla-nottin…
http://westbridgfordwire.com/baresca-opens-today-in-byard-lane-nottingham/
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g186356-d1007375-Reviews…
https://zaapthai.co.uk/locations/nottingham/
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Restaurant_Review-g186356-d6889120-Reviews…