'Junkfood' for brunch

On a cool summer’s morning in July, a few friends and I decided to head to Junkyard in Nottingham for a relaxed Sunday brunch. Renowned for its wide array of craft beers and delicious 'junkfood', we’d spotted the delicious brunch menu and had been keen to give it a try.

We arrived just after 11am, and were seated at one of the tables looking out to the courtyard. The décor is stylish and spare – leather booths, exposed brick and quirky touches mean it is the ideal place to comfortably while away a morning.

Off the brunch menu, two of us ordered the Blueberry Buttermilk Pancakes, which came served with fresh sliced banana, real maple syrup and whipped pecan butter. The pancakes were thick and fluffy and full of juicy blueberries, and our plates were scraped clean. My other friend went for the French Toast, Monsieur? The ultimate toasted ham and cheese sandwich, made with delicious eggy brioche.

Our drinks were also a treat, with local roasted coffee, a selection of teas and juices, including the watermelon juice, which was very refreshing alongside all the food.

By this time, we’d made ourselves very at home and we chatted for a few hours, with plenty to catch up on. The service was excellent, and we were made to feel very welcome by the attentive waitress.

As time passed we were tempted by a second helping of food. We ordered the Mac ‘n’ Cheese Balls off the Graze menu, which came with an arrabiata sauce containing IPA. They were crispy and delightfully cheesy, the ideal accompaniment to a craft beer. We also tried the chocolate and hazelnut brownie, which was perfectly squidgy and came with fresh fruit compote and vanilla ice cream, a decadent end to what had been a very enjoyable brunch.

As well as brunch, Junkyard offers ‘Junkfood’ throughout the day, including bar snacks, grazing plates and main courses, all with a nod to classic American flavours such as fish tacos, sloppy joes and hot wings.

We’re looking forward to returning soon to try more of the food and some of the excellent craft beer. http://www.junkbars.com/

                    Thanks to Kerry Cooks for the photos!