These days, it can be a little tricky navigating your way through the city's vast selection of places to eat. Especially when you're looking for one that's suitably swanky, but doesn't leave you feeling like you need a cheeky trip to McDonald's afterwards to top up a spread of tiny plates. And I think I found the spot that will really cut the mustard - Browns Brasserie & Bar in Nottingham. The chain prides itself on setting up shop in eye-catching, historic venues across the country, as well as slinging out hearty portions of elevated British fare, and I'm here to tell you that this branch was no exception.

The whole restaurant was tastefully decorated without being stuffy.

Sat in a classic Georgian building, just a 10-minute walk from Nottingham Castle, the light and airy restaurant boasted striking Art Deco-inspired interiors. From the plush orange velvet stools and checkerboard tiles to the grand piano, it really was a looker. And while the dining area had a delightful buzz about it, the laid-back bar seemed perfect for chilled-out cocktails or an evening aperitif.

Kicking off the night with something boozy, I tried the punchy Browns old fashioned (£10.50). Made up of Woodford Reserve Bourbon, bitters and a burst of orange, it was an excellent take on a classic. My dinner date knocked back the zesty lemon bon bon bellini (£12.50), a deliciously delicate citrus concoction balanced with a hint of sweet vanilla. We couldn't help but delve into the wine list too, and opted for a bottle of the smooth and plummy Guigal Châteauneuf Du Pape Rouge (£65). 

Everything ordered from Browns Nottingham's menu was absolutely beaut.

With our appetites suitably whetted, I dived into my light and colourful charred fig, whipped goat cheese & beetroot salad (£8.25), a beautiful blend of earthy veg and rich, creamy cheese. My husband gobbled down a bowl brimming with buttery garlic prawns and chorizo (£9.25), accompanied by hunks of sourdough for mopping up the moreish sauce. Inspired by the restaurant's British roots, I opted for a wholesome spring vegetable pot pie (£16.50) with indulgent mash, topping up my veg count by nibbling on a side order of roasted tenderstem broccoli with pine nut granola (£4.50). I never thought of broccoli as addictive, but these soft, flavourful spears were seriously scoffable. And the 7oz fillet steak and garlic butter scallops (£35.95), which came with a whopping selection of golden-brown fries, onion rings and grilled veggies, was cooked just right.

If you're looking for a snazzy brasserie in Nottingham, Browns is a great shout.

Feeling more than a little full, we decided to split the mouthwatering glazed cinnamon brioche with caramelised bananas and stem ginger ice cream (£8.25) - probably our favourite dish of the night. We also couldn’t resist signing off our evening in style with a boozy Irish coffee (£7.95), spiked with a glug of Jameson whisky.

The DesignMyNight Digest

While staying true to its relaxed bistro style, with classy interiors and a menu of hearty, time-honoured dishes, Browns Brasserie & Bar still felt a little luxe - and it wasn't just the price tag. Not only was the food spot on, being both nourishing and rich in flavour, but the drinks list complemented the whole feast nicely. This city centre eatery was ideal for my date night dinner, but I reckon it would also be perfect for birthdays and anniversaries.

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