Do you have a favourite place in Derby that is your go-to for celebratory occasions? There are numerous eateries in Derby, but none that feel a little special when you walk through the doors.
I am talking about The Wonky Table in Derby. I have been to the restaurant a number of times over the years. Its quirky charm sets it apart from other spaces in the city centre, which is why it was my first port of call to celebrate the birthday of a very special family member.
And so we made our way to the restaurant one chilly Wednesday evening. What I love about The Wonky Table, is the eclectic vibe, filled with fairy lights that makes you feel really welcome.
If rooms could give you a hug, that’s what stepping into The Wonky Table feels like. There is a winter menu on at the moment, featuring innovative dishes made with local produce – win win.
From black pudding and Stilton fritters, which sound dramatic and moreish, to elegant seabass in white wine cream sauce, The Wonky Table menu has got it going on. A selection of dishes were enjoyed that evening which were generously portioned and cooked to perfection.
Arancini were giant, plump balls with wild mushroom that had a fabulously crisp crumb and an inviting squidgy interior. The sauce laced with white wine was a great companion to the earthy mushroom notes, whilst the addition of sautéed greens and toasted walnuts finished the dish off perfectly.
Yes, I know it’s Veganuary, but when hanger steak is on the menu, it is very difficult to look away. Dining partner said he enjoyed the marinated beef hanger steak, whose succulent meat and rich, beefy profile was accentuated with the red wine sauce.
I somehow lost the photo of my main, so you’ll just have to take my word for it that it was beautiful. I had the salmon fillet in a Goan inspired fish sauce, which had me adrift on seafood heaven as it was packed with marinated prawns.
The addition of spiced pakora was a really thoughtful touch, as the spongy texture soaked up the lightly spiced gravy, really well. This dish felt like playful riff on a curry, and that is what I love about The Wonky Table, who like gently pushing boundaries to create memorable dishes that will have your returning for more.
Dessert came in the form of a cheesecake – which was vegan – drizzled with a chocolate-toffee sauce. I love it when vegan desserts can pass off as dairy desserts, and if it’s one thing The Wonky Table do, is they know how to deliver gorgeous plant-based dishes.
I love dining at The Wonky Table because it is not like other restaurants. The cosy boho yet elegant, grown up vibe is unique and I promise you won’t find another place like it in Derby, or beyond.
Restaurant name: The Wonky Table
Address: 32-33 Sadler Gate, Derby DE1 3NR
Tel: 01332 295000
Opening times:
Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, closed
Wednesday, Thursday 5 pm–12 am
Friday, Saturday 12–3 pm | 5 pm–12 am
How to make reservation: ResDiary | Telephone
Website + social: Facebook | Instagram | TripAdvisor
Whilst in the area: There are a number of cute cafés on the Sadler Gate stretch, including Milk & Honey Deli. I have my eye on a new opening of The Fig Derby, which is going to be a great addition to an already wonderfully eclectic area.