The Otter - Carte

The Castle Inn

➤ High Street, Derby DE74 2PP, United Kingdom, North West Leicestershire

Carte • Cafés • Pizza • Seafood • European

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"Nipped in for a quick bite on a Friday evening. We went up to what looked like the restaurant bar and asked if it was possible to get a table but were directed to the main bar to ask about this. The place was packed- getting served at the internal bar would have been a bit of a fight. Had a similar experience on a visit here before because there's not much space around the bar so you tend to get an impenetrable crowd instead of any sort of line. Eventually managed to get the attention of a member of staff and were told the restaurant was fully booked, however we could sit outside and order food at the bar to our outside table. Would have saved us some time if that was communicated through the team and relayed by the first person we asked instead of sending us to queue elsewhere. We did order to an outside table, and the food was excellent. The small pizzas really are quite small. But if you have a couple of sides they're perfect to not overstuff you. If you want to just eat pizza probably get a large. Also they had really interesting topping selections on the pizzas- I had the spiced aubergine, creme fraiche and honey. It was absolutely delicious. The chips were hot and well seasoned, the greek salad also really nice- I did miss the addition of peppers and would possibly remove the pea shoots and sub in the peppers to improve this and keep it more authentic though. Drinks were nice and the atmosphere inside was quite cosy and outside had a nice vibe with the tasteful lightning and wooden furniture. Would definitely return (but probably make a reservation. It's busy for a reason!"

The Apiary

➤ 38 Borough Street, DE74 2LA, North West Leicestershire, United Kingdom

Carte • Pizza • Cafés • European • Fast Food

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"Was hoping for a comfortable early evening meal for the family on Saturday. Could not book an Apriary table because it was a themed Caribbean night . Never mind, let 's go! 3 things spoilt it: virtually no seating left, incredibly noisy – due to music and density of people, and took absolutely ages – 50 minutes – to order then get food! But my airline mutton and rice was tasty; staff were friendly. Unlikely to return."

The Royal Oak

➤ 26 The Green, LE12 5DB, North West Leicestershire, United Kingdom

Carte • Pizza • Cafés • Seafood • European

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"We popped in for a quick dinner tonight as many places in Nottingham and Derby were closed. The restaurant exceeded our expectations. The venue is clean (including the important toilets), new, and traditional with modern touches. The staff is friendly and attentive. The background music adds to a relaxing atmosphere. The food is excellent and competitively priced, even cheap for the quality offered. Everything is delicious and fresh. The seared cod with samphire was one of the best my wife has had in a long time. The kids menu was generous and affordable. Although we didn't stay in the rooms, we wouldn't hesitate to book in the future after trying their restaurant. We have saved The Royal Oak on Google Maps and will definitely return when in the area. Food and drinks were fresh, well-portioned, nicely presented, affordable, and great overall."

Golden Dragon

➤ London Road, Shardlow I-DE72 2HN, United Kingdom

Carte • Ribs • Asian • Lunch • Chinese

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"We were visiting Donnington Race Circuit and decided to have a chinese. We ate in here, and it was amazing! The food was delicious, and lots of it, we loved the spinny circle in the middle of the table, allowing us all to share and try new meals. The service was great and we loved the pink glitter sink in the ladies ️ I've saved it for next time we visit Service: Dine in"

The Falcon Inn

➤ 64 Main Street, Long Whatton LE12 5DG, United Kingdom, North West Leicestershire

Carte • Pizza • Cafés • Seafood • European

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"We stayed for one night prior to a flight at East Midlands Airport and everything was excellent, from the warm, welcoming staff, to the rooms and the simply delicious food (evening and breakfast). Firstly the pub: food, drinks, restaurant… All excellent. The sign of a great pub for ale drinkers is one with knowledgeable staff who are keen to let you sample before deciding on a pint. This was the case here and we worked through all five real ales during the afternoon and evening! Also a great selection of wines, and everything served in the correct glasses I loved the attention to detail. Then the evening meal in the restaurant area of the pub: this was also excellent, with a great menu and top food, in plentiful portions. Really delicious all ‘round. We didn’t manage desserts but starters and mains all great. The pub/restaurant is well presented inside and out, with a lovely beer garden at the back. Secondly, the hotel rooms: we were in rooms 1 2 and both were lovely. They were well presented, comfy beds, nice hospitality tray (with fresh milk in the in room fridge), nice toiletries. The room rate included breakfast, which was all freshly cooked to order and once again, a great selection. I would 100% stay here again, especially if going to/from East Midlands airport which was less than a 10 minute drive. A lovely, traditional country Inn with excellent food and hospitality. Thank you to the full team."