Cafes and Tea Rooms

European style cafes with tables that spill out onto the streets at the first glimpse of sun and a traditional English afternoon tea are never far away in Nottinghamshire, and it goes without saying that wherever there's a frothy cappuccino, there'll always be a fine selection of cakes too.

Take a tour of our cafes and tea shops to find out the best places to grab a tasty brew or check out some recommendations below.

Nottingham and West Bridgford

With several national awards until its belt, Delilah is a beautiful delicatessen and restaurant set on Victoria Street near Old Market Square. The team have a passion for the finest and freshest ingredients and the results are superb. Pick up fresh local produce, delightful hampers, a huge array of cheeses and chutneys, or stop off for a delectable lunch.

If you ever find yourself wandering about Forest Recreation Ground, a stop by Homemade Pavilion should definitely be on your to do list, it’s the perfect place to sit and relax. The three-times regional winner and national runner-up in the ‘Best Cheap Eats’ category at the Observer Food Monthly Awards, has the most delicious treats, cakes, fresh coffee and hot food to enjoy!

One of the few remaining Victorian Music Halls still operating in the UK, Malt Cross offers homemade food, its very own blend of coffee, and utterly unique surroundings with its glass roof and iron balconies. If it’s a sumptuous afternoon tea that strikes your fancy, there really isn't anywhere more delightfully traditional than Josephine's Tea Room and Cafe. With elegant surroundings that give a classic vintage atmosphere, the handy location makes this a choice spot for pre-theatre and cinema dining. 

Or try White Rabbit Teahouse for elegant afternoon teas, homemade cakes and speciality teas in a charming vintage setting. This independent Nottingham favourite is perfect for relaxed catch-ups, celebrations and indulgent treats.

Hockley Kitchen pride themselves on being your local, friendly, independent neighbourhood cafe right in the heart of Hockley, serving breakfasts, lunch, cakes and coffee! Everything is made fresh and to order so you can choose from a large variety of sandwich options and jacket potato toppings. They have a great selection of alternative milks, spreads and breads from almond and oat milk to vitalite, vegan cheese and gluten free rolls! Their amazing cake selection always has alternative options too! They have an exclusive house blend from Outpost Coffee Roasters for all your coffee needs.

Sherwood Forest and Beyond

During the summer months, head to Southwell and make a stop at The Refectory where you can tuck into seasonal, good quality, locally sourced food, from light bites to daily specials. Or head to Spouges Café at The Anchor, Gunthorpe, serving up fresh local dishes, stacked sandwiches, and loaded spuds, alongside homemade bakes and light bites...a great spot for a relaxed breakfast, a quick lunch, or food on the go. 

The setting couldn’t be better for Launay’s, which is a stone’s throw from Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre. This restaurant and bar is also the perfect place for a buffet lunch. 

Breakfast

We’ve all heard the saying that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, but if you’ve got a busy day exploring Nottinghamshire ahead of you then you’ll definitely need fuel to keep you going.

Some of us like to gorge ourselves on a gloriously greasy fry-up, our plates piled high with sausages, beans and hash browns. Others prefer something a little lighter, like a smoked salmon or avocado bagel accompanied by a picture-perfect latte. Whatever you're in the mood for, we've rounded-up some of the best eateries serving breakfast in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.

Click here for our breakfast recommendations.

Afternoon Tea

When you think of quintessentially British cuisine, there is nothing more elegant than a spot of afternoon tea. The custom became fashionable in the mid 19^th century after the 7^th Duchess of Bedford began inviting friends to join her for sandwiches, tea and cake in the long hours between lunch and dinner. Today this light, leisurely meal is served in many restaurants and cafes and is an increasingly popular way to celebrate a special occasion, often complimented by champagne or prosecco.

Click here for our Afternoon Tea recommendations.