The Kitchen at Cross Keys

Located in the heart of Epperstone, The Kitchen at The Cross Keys is a public house offering delicious seasonal menus, that comprise the freshest locally sourced produce. Managed by husband-and-wife team, Des and Trish Sweeney, this cosy country pub has quickly become a well-loved addition to the village. Reopened and refurbished in 2015, The Kitchen extends a warm welcome to locals, visitors and dogs. The pub even has pony parking, offering your horse space to relax and have a bite while you do the same. Why not pop by after a walk or ride in the Nottinghamshire countryside?

Chef Des Sweeney has an impressive background, having cooked for the Royal family at Buckingham Palace and Balmoral, and on board the Queen Elizabeth 2. Des and his team create gorgeous seasonal food with menus that change daily based on what the butcher and fishmonger have to offer. You may wish to start with pan-fried pigeon supreme, accompanied by crisp pancetta, raspberry dressing and mesclun leaves, followed by grilled fillet of teriyaki salmon, served with chargrilled pak choi and fresh mango salsa. The asparagus and broad bean risotto, served with Parmesan shavings and extra-virgin olive oil, is also a popular choice. If you’re not keen to drive, The Kitchen at Cross Keys has its own taxi to save you the trouble, affording you the opportunity to choose from their extensive selection of wine, beer and cider. In the summer months, the pub offers extensive outdoor seating, making it the perfect place for lunch in the sunshine. You’ll want to bring the kids along too; the vast garden features a climbing frame, goalposts and even a sunken trampoline to keep the little ones occupied.