Food blogger shares her top restaurants near Derby for a dinner to remember

Finding a good place to eat can often be easier said than done.

We find good word-of-mouth recommendations are one of the best ways to discover restaurants.

Derby World has dedicated a series where local food bloggers share their top restaurants, and best places to grab a bite to eat, or sip some fabulous tipples.

This week we chatted with local blogger Bejal in the hope of discovering our new favourite places to check out near Derby - we weren’t disappointed!

Meet Bejal Gosai

Bejal, aka Be is the face behind Be-lavie.

She has a passion for good food, responsible travel and eco-living with a focus on sustainability.

Having travelled to over 70 countries over 15 years’ with the aim of discovering authentic experiences and supporting community projects, food is a big part of her life.

She is vegetarian and always on the hunt for novel and interesting cuisine.

You can join Bejal on her journey by visiting her website or following her on social on her Instagram page.

Dinner with a view: Black Iron at Winstanley House

This restaurant, tucked away in leafy parklands is a 45-minute drive from Derby city centre.

Based at Winstanley House, this Georgian Grade II listed hotel is home to Black Iron restaurant.

Bejal said: “They have a number of excellent menus and a fantastic à la carte offering which can be enjoyed daily.

“Their service is always spot on, the surroundings are stunning and there are always good vegetarian options.”

Read more: Love Derby

Bejal may be vegetarian but she is keen to mention a special evening for carnivores.

She said: “Sundays evenings are steak nights as they have a specialist menu for this.

“It’s great as they also have a good wine list to choose from too.”

Address: Black Iron Restaurant & Bar, Hinckley Road, Leicester LE3 1HX

Country dining: Grinling Gibbons at Stapleford Park

Located in the Stapleford Park Hotel in Melton Mowbray, Grinling Gibbons is approximately 1-hour’s drive from Derby city centre.

Bejal is a fan of this “most beautiful of country locations.”

Serving fine dining from an à la carte menu, Bejal highly rates the restaurant’s food that has been created by a team of talented chefs.

Good food aside, it is the setting that keeps Bejal going back for more.

She said: “Decadent décor, chandeliers, beautiful drapes, and brilliant service is a joy to experience.

“The restaurant accommodates vegetarians with thoughtful options and produce is homegrown.

“They have a great selection of wines too.”

Address: Grinling Gibbons Restaurant, Stapleford Park, Stapleford Road, Stapleford, Melton Mowbray LE14 2EF

Avant-garde menu: John’s House, Loughborough

This gem of a restaurant is just 40 minutes away from Derby city centre.

It being Leicestershire's only Michelin-starred restaurant means it is popular with foodies and anyone who loves avant-garde cuisine.

Bejal said: “John’s House offers wonderful menu options and a dedicated vegetarian taster menu.

“This place is very special as it is located in the house that Chef John Duffin grew up in.

“Their seven-course taster menus are incredible along with a wine flight.

“They also have cottage-style rooms now so diners can stay over and not worry about drinking a wee too much!

“Chef John is from a farming background so much of the ingredients are locally sourced too.

“There is a reason why John’s House has a three-month waiting list!”

Address: John’s House, 139-141 Loughborough Road, Mountsorrel, Loughborough LE12 7AR