The Valentine’s Top 5: Nottingham

Having studied at the University of Nottingham for four years, it’s safe to say, I know my way around the city. My friend Liv could always tempt me away from the library with the simple sentence: “Shall we eat out tonight”. And off we would dash, shovelling our laptops that hadn’t even been opened back into our bags – when duty calls!

Whilst many people may recognise Nottingham for it’s bustling student nightlife, it is a city riddled with quirky cocktail bars, restaurants and date night activities – I’ve struggled to condense all the options to just five! So let’s dive in, and take a look at my 2022 Valentine’s Day recommendations:

1. Iberico World Tapas

• Where? The Shire Hall, High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN
• What? Tapas and Small Plates
• How Much? £££

This is by far my favourite dining spot in Nottingham – slightly pricier than the options to come, but worth every penny. The restaurant itself is intimate and cosy; it almost feels as if you’re having a private dining experience despite being situated within a small, busy space.

But it was the food that sold this spot to me. Tapas itself is inherently romantic, shared with a bottle of red wine over a candlelit dinner. Crisp cubes of patatas bravas, juicy padron peppers, tender prawns – every single dish was cooked to perfection. The service is quick and accommodating, the atmosphere is exceptional and the food is divine. Iberico World Tapas, is romance world-class.

2. Dino

• Where? 9 Warser Gate, Nottingham, NG1 1NU
• What? Mediterranean
• How Much? ££

Hidden away beside the Lace Market tram stop, you will find the mysterious allure of Dino. This quaint and understated restaurant is the perfect spot for a Valentine’s meal, serving up steak and fajita hot plates that will make your taste buds tingle. Book a seat in the main dining area amongst the lively crowds, or opt for a more subdued window-booth (I would recommend the booth). With delicious food, fancy cocktails and a charming atmosphere, make sure to dine at Dino.

3. Sexy Mamma Love Spaghetti

• Where? 3 Heathcoat St, Nottingham, NG1 3AF
• What? Italian
• How Much? ££

This intimate eatery is perfect for all the pasta lovers out there! Sexy Mamma Love Spaghetti has a wonderful authenticity – fresh ingredients, rustic decor, obliging service and lovely wine. For some of the best pasta in Nottingham, Sexy Mamma is a must-visit spot.

4. Piccolino

• Where? 7 Weekday Cross, Nottingham, NG1 2GB
• What? Italian
• How Much? ££

Maintaining the Italian theme, we come in at number four with Piccolino. Another of my favourite pasta spots to rival Sexy Mamma, but with a slightly larger, more versatile menu – neither out shine the other, but if you would rather have pizza over pasta, then you’re better off booking Piccolino.

My university house adored this spot and we were regular visitors. The pizzas are thin based, crisp and topped to perfection, and their pasta is a mouthful of creamy dreaminess. For that extra flair of romance, book in a window seat and people-watch all evening – it’s slightly more secluded by the window than in the restaurant centre, and may give you that additional Valentine’s intimacy.

5. Pitcher and Piano

• Where? High Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 1HN
• What? Gastro pub
• How Much? ££

Do I hear church-bells? This is a location show stopper – set within a beautiful old church, Pitcher & Piano is an unmissable Nottingham spot. As you dine below a dazzling stained glass window, nestled within an intimate booth, I’m sure you’ll tempted to pull out an engagement ring. This option is less-renowned for it’s food, and more recognisable for it’s decor and cocktails – but nonetheless, this is the romantic top five, not the most culinary acclaimed!

More Recommendations?

As we are all too familiar, Valentine’s Day spots are in high demand – I wouldn’t be surprised if some people booked ahead in October. Not to worry, there are plenty of options in Nottingham, and just because they didn’t make onto my 2022 Valentine’s guide, it’s not to say they’re not worth booking. Like I mentioned earlier, Nottingham is packed full of incredible dining experiences, so here are a few more options:

• The Alchemist – Gastro pub & Cocktails – £££
• Oscar & Rosie’s – Pizza Restaurant – £££
• The Magic Garden – Cocktails & Small Plates – ££
• Baresca – Tapas & Small Plates – ££££
• Bar Iberico – Spanish – ££££
• Mowgli – Indian Cuisine – ££
• Yamas – Meze & Tapas – ££
• Bonzai – Sushi Restaurant – ££££
• Sexy Mamma Love Cicchetti – Venetian Cuisine – ££££
• The Pelican Club – Italian – £££

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