Nottingham Restaurants: The top city centre spots

Edited by: Andrew

Marketing and Communications Manager

Nottingham is properly spoilt for choice when it comes to places to eat - honestly, there’s something brilliant around every corner. I’m talking chilled-out cafes perfect for a lazy lunch, hidden gems, and those lively street-food spots you can’t resist popping back to.

Whether you’re Nottingham born-and-bred or just dropping by for a couple of days, there’s always another tasty spot to uncover. Feeling hungry yet? Good - I've pulled together some top picks for eating out in Nottingham city centre. Dig in!

Explore global flavours in Nottingham

Nottingham’s city centre is bursting with international cuisines, offering everything from cosy Italian restaurants to bold, spice-laden Indian curry houses and premium steakhouses. It’s easy to take your tastebuds on a world tour—without ever leaving the city.

Across the city centre, you'll find plenty of authentic options with mouthwatering handmade dishes and cosy atmospheres.

Here's a couple of favourites:

• Pho (Vietnamese) 24-32 Carlton St, Nottingham NG1 1NN
• Solo Grano (Italian) 21-23 Wheeler Gate, Nottingham NG1 2NA
• Bistrot Pierre (French) 13-17 Milton St, Nottingham NG1 3EN
• Calcutta Club (Indian) 8-10 Maid Marian Way, Nottingham NG1 6HS
• Turtle Bay (Caribbean) The Cornerhouse, 12 Trinity Sq, Nottingham NG1 4DB

Casual dining and comfort food - Nottingham's laid back food scene

Want to combine great food, great company and the opportunity to kick back and relax? You'll find plenty of great spots in Nottingham that hit the spot: bold flavours, big portions and great vibes.

From stacked, sauce-dripping burgers to stone-baked pizza fresh from the oven, these casual restaurants in Nottingham are ideal for unfussy, feel-good food. Many also offer late-night service - perfect for a spontaneous bite or chilled evening out.

Plant-based dining: Nottingham's top veggie & vegan spots

The plant-based scene in Nottingham is thriving, with creative, colourful, and satisfying dishes popping up across the city centre. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to cut down on meat, you’ll find plenty of flavour-packed options.

Across Nottingham city centre, you'll find restaurants offering a wide range of veggie and vegan options - from curry to ramen, tapas and more.

Breakfast, brunch and afternoon treats

Start your day with a hearty breakfast, linger over a bottomless brunch with friends, or treat yourself to afternoon tea - Nottingham has some excellent places to relax and refuel.

Here's a couple of our must-try experiences:

• Combine delicious treats with a new hobby with a Crafternoon Tea at Debbie Bryan
• Enjoy bottomless brunch in a beautiful converted church at Pitcher and Piano
• Explore the heart of Nottingham's indie scene with breakfast at yolk

Family-friendly dining in Nottingham

Nottingham is a fantastic city for families, and you'll find plenty of family-friendly places to eat throughout the city centre. From menus designed especially for little ones to welcoming, relaxed spaces where parents can unwind - there are loads of great options to choose from.

You'll find loads of great-value kids meals, from pizzas to katsu curry - and tried-and-tested favourites like fish and chips. Whether you're popping in for lunch during a day out or enjoying a Sunday roast together, Nottingham’s family-friendly restaurants have got you covered.

Nottingham's long-standing favourites

For somewhere tried, tested and truly loved by locals, Nottingham's veteran restaurants are a great place to start. These are the places that have been feeding the city for years - in some cases, decades - with consistent quality, friendly service and loyal customers.

From tandoori restaurants to historic British pubs, these gems have stood the test of time and become woven into the fabric of the city. Whether it's the nostalgia, the reputation, or just a cracking good meal, you can't go wrong with one of Nottingham’s most trusted favourites.

Team picks: our favourite restaurants in Nottingham

With so many amazing places to choose from, it's hard to pick just a few - but we've given it our best shot! Our team has handpicked a selection of restaurants that we've tried and loved - and we think you'll enjoy too.

Whether it's for unbeatable value, atmosphere or a dish we can't stop thinking about, here are some of our favourite places to eat in the city centre:

Piccolino, Weekday Cross

Credit @piccolinorestaurants

"Piccolino’s one of those places that always feels like a bit of an occasion – even if you’re just going for dinner on a Tuesday. Tucked away at Weekday Cross, the setting’s spot on, and the vibe is classy without being over the top. The Lasagne al Wagyu e Tartufo is hands down the star of the show – rich, indulgent, and packed with flavour. You can see the chefs at work in the open kitchen, which just adds to the experience. It’s the kind of place you remember – for the food, the service, and the little touches that make it feel special."

- Jake, Project Executive

Piccolino
7 Weekday Cross, Nottingham NG1 2GB

Browns, Park Row

Credit @brownsnottingham

"Browns has such a lovely atmosphere – it always feels like a bit of a treat but never too formal. The building’s beautiful and there’s always a real buzz, especially in the evenings. The Beef Shin & Red Wine Ravioli is rich and delicious - a perfect treat! The team there are so friendly and welcoming, which makes all the difference. Whether it’s a catch-up with friends or date night, it’s one of those places that just works."

- Judi, Campaigns and Sponsorship Executive

Browns
20 Park Row, Nottingham NG1 6GR

Pho, Carlton Street

Credit @phorestaurant

"Pho Nottingham is an absolute winner whenever I’m after something fresh, tasty and packed with flavour. Right in the middle of Hockley, it’s always buzzing, the team are super friendly, and the vibe just hits the spot every single time. My top pick has got to be their Beef Brisket Phở - that melt-in-your-mouth brisket with fragrant herbs and a broth that's ridiculously good. Plus, they've got loads of vegan and gluten-free options, which makes it ideal when you're eating out with mates. Whether it’s a quick lunch or a relaxed evening catch-up, it’s easily one of my favourite spots in town."

- Andrew, Marketing and Communications Manager

Pho
24-32 Carlton St, Nottingham NG1 1NN

Fat Hippo, Broadway

Credit @fathippofood

"Fat Hippo is top of my list when I'm craving a burger that's a bit out of the ordinary. The 'PB+JJ' burger, with its combination of peanut butter and bacon jam, might sound unconventional, but it's a flavour explosion that just works. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, making it a great spot for a casual meal with friends. Plus, their range of sides, like the tater tots smothered in sauce and bacon bits, are the perfect accompaniment. It's a place that never disappoints when you're in the mood for indulgent comfort food."

- Rich, Head of Operations and Business Crime

Fat Hippo
9 Broad St, Nottingham NG1 3AJ

Gusto, Upper Parliament Street

Credit @gustorestaurants

"Gusto is one of my favourite spots when I want something stylish, relaxed and reliably delicious.The interiors are gorgeous – all soft lighting, marble tables and olive trees – it’s giving ‘dinner goals’ in the best way. I often go for the crab fettucine (absolute dream), and their cocktail menu is just as tempting – the Blackberry and Apple Sling is my fave. It’s perfect for birthdays, date nights or just catching up with the girls. You leave feeling like you’ve had a proper treat – and probably already planning your next visit."

- Lottie, Business Liason Officer

Gusto
29 Upper Parliament St, Nottingham NG1 2AR

Zaap Thai, Bromley Place

Credit @zaap_thai_streetfood

"Zaap Thai is like stepping into a Bangkok street market – it's an explosion of colour, energy, and fun. The interior is a feast for the eyes, with neon signs, tuk-tuks, and vibrant decor that transports you straight to Thailand. I love their Pad Thai; it's packed with flavour and never lets me down. The staff are friendly and the atmosphere is buzzing, making it a great place to catch up with friends or enjoy a lively meal out. It's not just dinner; it's an experience that leaves you smiling."

- Anoushka, Marketing Executive

Zaap Thai
Unit B, 6 Bromley Pl, Nottingham NG1 6JG

MemSaab, Maid Marian Way

Credit @memsaabnottingham

"If I’m going out for a proper curry, it’s got to be MemSaab. It’s a level above – the kind of place where everything feels thought through, from the sleek interior to the way the dishes arrive looking like art. I love the lamb rogan josh - it’s packed with flavour, with just the right level of heat. You can tell the team there take real pride in what they do, and the service is always spot on. It’s ideal if you’re looking for somewhere a bit smarter, but still relaxed enough to settle in and enjoy."

- Sam, Business Engagement Officer

MemSaab
12-14 Maid Marian Way, Nottingham NG1 6HS

Download our app to find more amazing places to eat and indulge in Nottingham

We’ve created the It’s in Nottingham app which is loaded with the latest shops, restaurants, bars, venues and events across the city centre - plus Google maps to help you get around easily.

Whether you're a foodie, music fan, cultural vulture, or looking for a great night out or things to do: our app will point you in the right direction and help you enjoy your time in our city.

Download it free today on Apple or Android.