The newly refurbished Browns Lane Restaurant & Bar is just a short walk from Loughborough town centre, and if you have a penchant for modern European cuisine with the odd international twist, you’ll find it here, amid stylish design and an altogether laid-back ambience. This family-run business attracts everybody from couples in search of romance, to groups of friends out for fun and fantastic food, and was buzzing with the sound of lively chatter even on the wet Tuesday night we visited.

The menu was varied and well presented, with a price range to suit every pocket. After some deliberation I chose a starter of thin, moist slices of full-flavoured smoked duck breast complemented by the contrasting sweetness of a mango and pepper salsa. My partner chose warm and creamy baked avocado, topped with melted mozzarella and surrounded by vine tomatoes. For the main course, my partner opted for the beef, shallot and pedigree pie. This was declared one of the best pies he had ever tasted, courtesy of generous pieces of tender steak, shallots and mushrooms cooked in an excellent ale sauce, and a topping of golden, flaky pastry. ‘Fat’ chips, which were suitably rustic and perfectly cooked inside and out, completed the picture. I opted for a succulent serving of halibut, which was topped with mature tangy cheese and served with a light creamy dill sauce and minted new potatoes – heaven on a plate.

We agreed that, judging by the quality of the food so far, forsaking dessert was not an option, and we were not disappointed. I chose the freshly baked meringues – crisp on the outside and chewy in the centre – sandwiched with thick cream and topped with fresh raspberries. My partner’s warm Belgian waffle, crowned with vanilla ice cream and surrounded by maple syrup and pecan nuts, was equally well received.

This winning combination of excellent food complemented by friendly, efficient service makes Browns Lane the kind of restaurant you will want to visit time and time again.