The story
Stones Restaurant in Matlock is run by Head Chef Kevin Stone, his wife Jade, and sister Katie Temple. The trio’s aim is simple: to provide a fantastic dining experience in a relaxed setting. The dining room draws couples, locals, and visitors alike, making it a natural choice for romantic dinners, family meals, or business lunches.
The restaurant sits right on the edge of the River Derwent, and each dining space offers a distinct mood. The Conservatory, bathed in natural light and overlooking the water, seats just five tables – one of the most coveted spots in the house. The Main Room stays rooted in the original restaurant, an intimate, softly lit space with cosy corners and hidden nooks. When the weather allows, the Terrace comes into its own: a gorgeous spot to settle in with a drink, watch the river go by, or dine outside in the sunshine.
Ingredients change regularly to reflect the best of local and seasonal produce. At lunch, Stones offers a three-course menu and a five-course tasting menu; at dinner, a three-course and an eight-course tasting menu. Vegetarian and vegan versions are available for every menu, each with the option of a wine flight. The kitchen’s modern British cooking is grounded in care and precision – the AA Food Guide describes the food as “just brilliant and very well thought-out”.
Stones holds a Michelin Recommended distinction, reflecting the consistency and quality that Kevin Stone and his team deliver. For those seeking a modern British restaurant in the Derbyshire Dales, this riverside spot remains a quiet standout – unpretentious, considered, and genuinely welcoming.
Recognition
Ambience
Location