Plumtree, British, Modern Restaurant Guide

“A truly world-class restaurant at the top of its game” – Sat & Amanda Bains create a “wonderful and truly memorable experience” for most visitors to their remarkable city-fringe hideaway, which is improbably located down a lane amidst the jumble of pylons, small industrial units, flyovers and concrete banks that announce your near-arrival at this converted motel, by the River Trent, on the outer fringes of Nottingham. In the evening, the choice is between the ‘Prelude’ or ‘Overture’ menus for £199 or £249 per person respectively for a multi-course tasting experience that’s “innovative and complex but richly fulfilling and not faddish”. That’s not to say that absolutely everyone loves it, and this year saw ratings dented a bit by a few more complaints than usual (e.g. “overly rich saucing…”, “unbelievable prices for the style…”). Still more common, however, are converts, such as a repeat visitor who noted “the second visit was even better than the first… if that’s possible… the food was perfection and the service pure class”. Top Tips – “the potato is always a standout”; “the winter offer complete with a stay in one of their rooms is an incredible bargain”.

2024 Review: “Always a real treat to visit” – this well-established local institution is to be found near the castle in the atmospheric surrounds of the seventeenth century Newdigate House (also home to networking haunt the Nottingham Club), and – especially in summer when its terrace comes into its own – provides “a calm escape from the city streets”. Its rather ambitious food has proved “consistently good” over many years (and even “fabulous” on a good night) and reports this year suggest that it has attained a more consistent standard of late.

“Aiming for high-end sophistication”, this first-floor venue in a striking looking property within the canal-side Island Quarter, launched in 2022, with open kitchen and glossy styling. A selection of Day Boat fish and Dry-Aged Steaks headline a short, straightforward menu and it’s recommended by locals as an excellent choice for business. That said, there is also the odd gripe about its pricing, and another reporter feels: “the bar area is lovely”, but “on two occasions now the food service has been slow and food not good”. BREAKING NEWS: In October 2025, Rhubarb Catering were appointed to look after the site, so change may be afoot.