10 amazing Derby restaurants that come highly recommended by the city's top chefs

Finding a great space that serves good food isn't a hard task here in Derby, after all, we're blessed with some truly wicked restaurants, pubs and bars.

Over the past few weeks, we have been speaking to local chefs in the know, who have shared their recommendations about where to dine.

It’s a great way to learn about where's hot but also to create a wonderful supportive community where fellow chefs champion each other’s talents and cooking.

Three Derby chefs who have shared fabulous places they rate are Ralph Skripek, Joe Wood and Ashley Payne.

Here is a selection of restaurants and pubs (in no particular order) they recommend, have you been to any yet?

Read more: Derby food and drink

10 restaurants rated by Derby chefs

1. The Palfrey at New Inn

Chef Director Ralph Skripek at The Butler’s Pantry catering firm loved his visit to The Palfrey. 

He is a big fan of their ‘generous Sunday lunch’ and of course, those views across the village.

Address: The Palfrey at New Inn, Hopping Hill, Milford, Belper DE56 0RL

2. The Red Lion, Hollington Ashbourne

This gastropub’s epic menu which boasts 15 pies was an instant hit with Ralph. 

As a pie fan, Ralph recommends a visit on Pie Night which happens every Tuesday. 

Address: The Red Lion, Main Street, Hollington, Ashbourne DE6 3HA

3. Bistrot Pierre

City centre dining that doesn’t cost the earth is always something to seek out. Ralph rates this smart-casual eatery on Friar Gate serving accessible dishes which he says are ‘well-priced, classic but with a French twist.’

Address: Bistrot Pierre, 18 Friar Gate, Derby DE1 1BX

4. Ebi Sushi

Joe Wood, who is head chef at one of Derby’s luxurious restaurants, is full of praise for Ebi Sushi.

He goes so far as to say this Japanese restaurant serves the ‘best sushi in the UK.’

Address: Ebi Sushi,59 Abbey Street, Derby DE22 3SJ

5. BEAR

There is something so comforting about brunch, and Joe is a fan of BEAR’s offerings.

He says the café’s dishes are ‘always spot on’ and the ‘atmosphere is great too.’

Address: BEAR,  7 Iron Gate, Derby DE1 3FJ

6. The Old Dog, Ashbourne

Warmer weather is around the corner which means keeping an eye out for places to catch some rays.

Joe is a fan of The Old Dog pub and its beer garden, and it also serves a ‘very tasty’ Sunday lunch too.

Address: The Old Dog, Spend Lane, Thorpe, Ashbourne DE6 2AT

7. The Boot at Repton

Sous Chef Ashley Payne, who works at JCB Golf and Country Club, rates The Boot at Repton.

Ashley is a fan of this eatery that uses local produce which he says “makes a much more enjoyable experience when dining.”

Address:  The Boot At Repton, 12 Boot Hill, Repton, Derby DE65 6FT

8. Morley Hayes Dovecote Restaurant

An eatery in Ashley’s favourites' list is Dovecote Restaurant, 15 minutes away from Derby city centre. 

It has a whopping 4.9 stars out of 5 on Google Reviews with many describing their dining experience as ‘world-class,’ ‘simply exceptional’ and ‘fantastic.’

Ashley has a personal connection with this restaurant

He said: “I selected Morley Hayes because I have previously worked at them, so I know how good the food is.”

Address: Bel Air Morley Hayes Golf Club, Morley Hayes, Main Road, Morley, Ilkeston DE7 6DG

9. Darley's Restaurant & Terrace

Ashley is a fan of the food at this elegant restaurant, which he says uses local produce on their seasonal menus.

Stunning views across the wonderful waterfront location is sure to elevate any dining experience too.

Address: Darleys Restaurant & Terrace, Waterfront Darley Abbey Mill, Derby DE22 1DZ

10. McDonald’s

The addition of fast food in a Top Restaurant List may not be expected, however, sometimes you can’t beat a good old Maccy D’s.

Ashley is unable to resist the pull of the golden arches either, which he says "is easier than going home to cook at night because it’s so convenient!”

Derby city centre address: McDonald’s, 42 -44 St Peters Street, Derby DE1 1S