There is something so very quaint about the word ‘farmhouse’. It evokes country living, and hearty, wholesome fayre. Which is why I was really looking forward to reviewing The Farmhouse at Mackworth. A 15 minute drive from the city centre makes it an excellent, central location with ample parking too.

If a building could give you a hug, The Farmhouse at Mackworth would be it. Think of a tonal palette of chocolate, burgundy wine, rich ochre, roaring fires and you’re halfway there to imagining what The Farmhouse at Mackworth’s like.

The concierge was efficient and lovely, and we were seated near the pizza oven on the lower ground floor. It’s a beautiful space, which is probably why it is a destination for events and celebrations.

When you can eat pretty much any of the starters, you know it’s a very good menu. I kicked off with Josper roasted mussels (cream, garlic, shallot, lemon, parsley, toasted sourdough).

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It was a wonderfully generous portion. The creamy sauce enrobing succulent mussels had a beautiful garlicky kick. Of course, I had to stop myself from indecorously licking the bowl clean. The yeasty sourdough was the perfect sponge to soak up all that deliciously luxurious sauce. (Thank you to Lee for thoughtfully bringing a spoon when serving this dish.)

My dining partner had cured salmon (pickled cucumber, fennel salad, horseradish salad cream, rye bread). Again, the portion was generous, the cured fish tender and punchy. I loved the fennel salad with the zingy cucumber (come on, of course I snaffled a forkful from my dining companion’s plate, it is salmon after all).

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For main, I had roast chicken breast (Chantenay carrots, herbs, roasted new potatoes, marinated mozzarella, prosciutto ham, chicken truffle sauce).

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This came presented in a scrunched up parcel, much like a present that I couldn’t wait to get stuck into. The chicken was moist, due to it being cooked on the bone (good call Chef) and roast potatoes just the way I like them, with a burnished exterior. It’s a great idea to have this dish in one-pot, as being cooked all in one, the flavours have time to get to know one another and have a party to create a tasty as hell amalgamation.

My dining partner had the 8oz 28 day aged fillet. Served medium rare with chips and vine roasted tomatoes, this was an elegant dish that delivered on all levels. Perfectly cooked medium rare fillet, well-seasoned, blistered tomatoes that were ready to burst – what’s not to love?

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The restaurant boasts a good dessert menu, but we were too full (blasphemy I know). Next time, I may go for the sticky toffee pudding, which sounds wonderfully gooey.

The Farmhouse at Mackworth is more than just a good restaurant. Customer service is impeccable. Joe Fearn was a delight and should he be looking after you when you’re dining, rest assured, you’ll be in good hands.

For memorably magnificent mussels that will taunt you to return, and stellar service, head on over to The Farmhouse at Mackworth. You won’t be disappointed.

Rating: (1: Hate: I’d rather eat my shoe – 10: Love: I’d sell my kidney for a meal here.)

Food: 9

Value for money: 8

Ambience: 9.5

Service: 10

#InANutshell

Restaurant name: The Farmhouse at Mackworth

Owner: Formally The Mackworth Hotel was owned by Marstons, it’s now managed by Revere

Open since: 27 March 2015

Covers: Approximately 110 (including The Den, The Restaurant and The Conservatory) plus the bar which is predominantly used for drinks and casual food. Also The Library which is private dining for up to 40 people or buffet for up to 50.

Address: 60 Ashbourne Road, Derby DE22 4LY

Closest train station: Derby

Opening times:

  • Breakfast: 7am – 11:30am
  • Lunch 12pm – 5pm
  • Dinner 5pm – 10pm
  • Bar open till 11:30pm

Bedrooms: 10 bedrooms with luxury suites, family rooms and super king rooms

Current food offers:

  • 2-4-1 pizzas Monday – Friday 5pm – 7pm
  • 50% off steaks on Tuesday all day

Current drinks offers:

  • After work social (offers on cocktails, beer and wine)

Website: http://www.thefarmhouseatmackworth.com/

How to make reservation: online and telephone

Call: 01332 824 324

Management:

  • General Manager – Robert Hattersley
  • Wedding & Event Manager – Katie Gordon

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thefarmhouseatmackworth

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thefarmhouseatmackworth

Twitter: www.twitter.com/homeofthefolly

Whilst in the area check out: Markeaton Park, Derby’s most visited park and a popular attraction in the East Midlands. From park walks and quiet relaxation in the gardens, to a trip to the Orangery Café, there is something for everyone.