Piccalilli

‘On another day, I would have walked past this tiny place and not noticed it,’ commented one reporter after discovering Piccalilli – a ‘hidden gem’ from veteran Nottingham chef Dan Coles. Expect ‘locally sourced and seasonal menus delivered with care and confidence’, all prepared in a tiny open-to-view kitchen. Welsh rarebit croquettes with punchy walnut ketchup might kick things off, ahead of an array of vegetables, fish and meat options – perhaps new season’s asparagus with another croquette (‘actually a cunningly disguised boiled egg’), hake with Cornish potatoes, samphire and parsley sauce or lamb rump with spring pea salad and anchoïade. Dessert might be something enterprising such as parsnip cake with salted butterscotch and goat’s-milk ice cream. To drink, Cidentro cider from Melton Mowbray, plus beers from local names including Lenton Lane Brewery, line up alongside cocktails and a slate of reasonably priced wines. Value for money is assured, especially with the option of a fairly priced set deal, while regular themed nights and special Sunday lunch sessions add to the local fun.