The story
Piccalilli opened its doors in autumn 2024, bringing a fresh, seasonal approach to Nottingham’s dining scene. Tucked away on Cannon Court, this independent restaurant describes itself as a neighbourhood dining spot—inviting, relaxed, and built around the best of British and European flavours. The kitchen, led by chef Dan Coles, works with local producers to craft small plates that change with the seasons. Coles, whose background includes years in Nottingham’s food scene, brings a philosophy of simple, honest cooking that makes the familiar feel new. He forages wild ingredients and creates seasonal infusions, always letting the produce speak.
The restaurant’s commitment to quality and sustainability has already earned it a Michelin Recommended award for 2026—a recognition that speaks to the precision and care behind every dish. Piccalilli aims to be a place where great food feels like home, whether you’re stopping in for a cosy dinner for two or a lively gathering with friends.
The menu evolves with what’s freshest and at its peak, so each visit offers something new. Counter dining is available, letting guests watch the action in the open kitchen. The atmosphere is down-to-earth but polished, with a focus on high-quality, seasonal Modern British cooking. Small-batch cocktails complement the food, and Sunday roasts are a weekly highlight.
Piccalilli is open Wednesday to Saturday evenings, with lunch service on Thursdays and Sundays. It’s a welcome addition to Nottingham’s restaurant landscape—a place where seasonality and local produce take centre stage, and where every meal feels like a discovery.
Recognition
Ambience
Details
History
‘On another day, I would have walked past this tiny place and not noticed it,’ commented one reporter after discovering Piccalilli – a ‘hidden gem’ from veteran Nottingham chef Dan Coles. Expect ‘locally sourced and seasonal menus delivered with care and confidence’, all prepared in a tiny open-to-view kitchen. Welsh rarebit croquettes with punchy walnut ketchup might kick things off, ahead of an array of vegetables, fish and meat options – perhaps new season’s asparagus with another croquette (‘actually a cunningly disguised boiled egg’), hake with Cornish potatoes, samphire and parsley sauce or lamb rump with spring pea salad and anchoïade. Dessert might be something enterprising such as parsnip cake with salted butterscotch and goat’s-milk ice cream. To drink, Cidentro cider from Melton Mowbray, plus beers from local names including Lenton Lane Brewery, line up alongside cocktails and a slate of reasonably priced wines. Value for money is assured, especially with the option of a fairly priced set deal, while regular themed nights and special Sunday lunch sessions add to the local fun.
1 Rosette Award for Culinary Excellence
Location
Instagram