Food and drink inspo? Let’s go!

Right here in Blaby District we’re blessed with a brilliant choice of pubs, bars, cafés, restaurants and coffee shops. With everything from fire-side pub grub to water-side alfresco dining there’s something for every taste, budget and occasion. Whether you’re planning a special meal, a night out with friends, or just fancy trying something new, take a look at some local favourites below.

The Bakers Arms, Blaby

Widely recognised as the oldest pub in Leicestershire, The Bakers Arms dates back to 1485. Medieval meets modern under the traditional thatched roof of this unique pub, where you can dine on King Richard III Grete Pie and chose from over 100 different gins and tonics. At the heart of Blaby’s community, the friendly team are passionate about local food and drink, offering a menu of home-cooked, seasonal dishes and a wide range of Everards ales and craft beers. With a beautiful outside space and an interior that’s full of warmth and character you’ll want to make yourself at home here.

Visit www.thebakersarms.com

Cini, Enderby

Located in the heart of Enderby village, Cini offers a warm welcome, authentic Italian food and a stylish contemporary dining experience. Headed up by talented chef and owner Andrea Paduano, the team serves up beautifully presented, seasonal dishes as well as famously good pizza and all your pasta favourites. The informal lunch time vibe makes way for a buzzy evening atmosphere – you can enjoy an aperitif on the raised terrace on a warm evening and even make a night of it with a stay in one of their boutique hotel rooms. 

Visit www.cinirestaurant.co.uk

Dom, Thurlaston

Situated opposite a stunning Norman church right in the heart of the village of Thurlaston, Dom is a real gem of a restaurant. Previously The Poachers Brasserie, Dom is now run by Head Chef Vincenzo Della Pietra and his partner Aga. Together they bring customers an exciting global menu which blends locally sourced British ingredients with influences from around the world. They offer a choice of tapas dishes and small plates, plus a hearty roast on Sundays, and the food is made with hyper-seasonal produce, which ensures zero-waste in everything they cook. The interiors are warm, welcoming and comfortable, but with a sense of occasion that makes Dom the ideal spot for a special meal or celebration.

Visit www.dom-restaurant.co.uk

Everards Brewery and Beer Hall

Conveniently located opposite Fosse Park and surrounded by the beautiful green space of Everards Meadows, the Brewery combines an impressive Beer Hall with the chance to go behind the scenes and learn about brewing the perfect print. Book a tour and discover Everard’s rich heritage, the history of its famous Tiger ale, and enjoy a tutored tasting of their small batch varieties. Great for casual dining, take in the view and some locally-sourced pub grub in the Beer Hall, and don’t forget to visit the on-site shop where you’ll find limited edition bottled beers, local gins, merchandise and other gifts.

Visit www.everardsmeadows.co.uk/explore/everards-brewery

Stanton Lakes, Stoney Stanton

Take a trip to the Bar and Bistro at Stanton Lakes to find an idyllic lakeside location over-looking a beautiful and tranquil expanse of water. Head to the terrace to enjoy coffee and cake with a view, or pick from a selection of premium lagers, wines and cocktails and sit back to watch the sunset. Food options include tapas dishes and a traditional roast lunch on Sundays. As well as plenty of local wildlife, you’ll also find a touring caravan site and a thriving open water swimming community (with sessions available to book from May to September).

Visit www.stantonlakes.co.uk

The Forge Inn, Glenfield

What a treat to have such a charming independent village pub offering exceptional beer, wine and food right on our doorstep. The Forge Inn is part of the independent ‘Beautiful Pubs’ collective and prides itself on doing things properly; whether that’s pulling the perfect pint, or sourcing locally-reared meat from award-winning butchers. With two alfresco dining spaces and a reputation for serving their local cask ales in traditional dimpled jugs it’s no surprise they’ve been recognised by Observer Monthly Food Awards as one of the best places to drink in the UK.

Visit www.theforgeinn.co.uk

The Tithe Barn, Cosby

Right in the heart of the village conservation area, this ancient timber-framed thatched barn has been transformed from a medieval church grain store to an award-winning restaurant and delicatessen. The Tithe Barn's locally-sourced food and drink is beautifully presented, and makes for a real treat when enjoyed outside in the courtyard garden. Artisan breads, pastries and some seriously good sausage rolls are available to take away from the deli counter, alongside a selection of local foodie favourites including preserves and sauces, cold meats and cheeses.

Visit www.tithebarn.com

For more places to visit take a look at our Eat Section.