Derby is a cool city whose food scene is expanding at a steady rate. The Cosy Club is the newest kid on the foodie block to serve tasty dishes to discerning diners in Derby and beyond. The launch on Friday evening saw local businesses, members of the press and Cosy Club enthusiasts patronise the stunning building on Victoria Street.

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Having undergone a £750k revamp to restore the glory of the former Royal Hotel, this is the perfect space to channel the Cosy Club ethos of quirky, glorious decadence. The entrance consisting of floor to ceiling glass windows is beautiful and once inside, you can’t help but be wowed by the winding staircase (you almost expect Mr Rochester from Jane Eyre to come sweeping down the stairs).

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We were ushered upstairs where we walked through the spacious bar, decked out with comfy cubes and assorted coloured chairs. From mock 18th century paintings to flocked wallpaper exuding gentrified grandeur of days gone by, I adored the furnishings and décor.

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In conversation with General Manager Scott, I was told that he hired staff whose personalities fit the Cosy brand – attentive, friendly and helpful, with a natural love of vintage and good food. Looking around, I saw all the staff in their striking attire, from frills to slick up-do’s. Patrons too had a go at “getting Cosy” by dressing up in their smart, dapper gear. I couldn’t help but be struck by these pretty ladies sitting a few tables away from me. They were of Lady T’s, who have also got a cat café opening soon (keep your eyes peeled on more news about that). Check out this fantastic fascinator, how cool is that?

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Although we were sampling a selection of tapas dishes, I had a quick peek at the full menu, which has something for everyone. From paninis, tapas and burgers, to noodle salads, rib-eye steaks and desserts, there is something for everyone. (I am also in the middle of compiling a breakfast and brunch feature, so keep your eyes peeled, as Cosy Club Derby will definitely be included.)

(left to right: falafels, hummus, chicken wings)
(left to right: falafels, hummus, chicken wings)

We kicked off with Sweet Potato and Basil Falafels with tzatziki, which were flavoursome and deliciously dense. These went well with the Hummus, sprinkled generously with smoked paprika. Marinated Chicken Wings were nice too, although a little too subtle for my palate. I loved the ciabatta, which was warm, yeasty and altogether lush.

(left to right: meatballs, squid, croquettes)
(left to right: meat balls, squid, croquettes)

The Beef and Pork Meatballs in a rich tomato and red wine sauce were lovely and beefy with a hit of red wine on the palate after a few seconds (so my sources say), whilst the salt and pepper squid flavours were lush. The squid would have tasted better if the batter was crisp, whilst the star of the show was the Goat’s Cheese and Spinach Croquette with tomato tapenade. This was creamy and lush, the cheese and spinach combination feeling velvety and refined, (I couldn’t taste the tomato tapenade too much, but the croquettes were so delicious by themselves, this was alright).

(left to right: pulled chicken, beer battered chorizo, more croquettes)
(left to right: pulled chicken, beer battered chorizo, more croquettes)

Pulled Chicken and Chorizo with crispy potatoes were tasty, the potatoes being mini cubes of moist deliciousness having soaked up the juices from the accompanying meat. Beer-Battered Chorizo with smoked tomato and cider aioli was decent, although a little too greasy for my liking. Chorizo is quite a fatty (albeit flavoursome) meat and to have this battered only ramped up the grease factor of this dish.

I would have liked to see dessert offerings, because the salted caramel cheesecake sounded wickedly tempting. I may just have to pop along during my lunch break and check it out. I have yet to sample their coffee, which of course I’ll update you guys soon too.

Service was great, Ashley our server was superb and really attentive, and being handed a Cosy Club mug with Cosy socks on our way out, was a nice touch. I’m already looking forward to my next visit.

Cosy Club Derby is a gorgeous space to hang out. So, where exactly is this stunning Cosy? If you’re anything like me, your directions suck. For me, Google maps wasn’t playing nice on Friday evening either, so a top tip for Derby newbies, is to look out for The Book Café (Cosy is next door).

For more information about Cosy, hop on over to their website at www.cosyclub.co.uk now, or to see Cosy’s new menu, click here.

*Images courtesy of Derby Telegraph website*